We are proud to be the principal partner in the Indigenous Researchers Forum 2007.

Last July, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) supported my call for a long-term, national generational plan to close the gap in outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. COAG has now adopted this approach and has committed to the vision of a strong and healthy Aboriginal population, with the same social and economic opportunities as other Australians.

This vision will be achieved through a sustained, systematic plan of action – one based on what evidence and research suggest will deliver the biggest improvements. Research into various success stories and solutions will have an important place in the development of the plan. So will be the voices of Aboriginal people.

As we prepare to begin the process of generational reform, I encourage all Aboriginal researchers to contemplate the potential of research as a tool for self-empowerment, both for the individual and for Aboriginal people generally. It can bridge cultural understandings, challenge stereotypes and contribute to improvements in the wellbeing of families and communities.

On behalf of the Northern Territory Government, I wish all delegates at the Indigenous Researchers Forum 2007 an informative experience.

CLARE MARTIN
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory