Queensland government faces backlash for repealing treaty laws

In Queensland, Australia, the newly elected Crisafulli government has taken steps to repeal the historic pathway to treaty legislation, a move that has sparked outrage among Indigenous leaders and communities. Introduced in the first parliamentary session after their election victory, the legislation aims to eliminate both the state's treaty-making body and the truth-telling inquiry, set forth under the Pathway to Treaty Act of 2023. The legislation was brought to attention during a debate on a Thursday night, without the usual parliamentary inquiry, indicating the urgency attributed to the bill by the government. The consequences of this decision are severe, as reported, with the impending loss of jobs for approximately 35 staff members of the inquiry, many of whom will not be redeployed. The decision has left the Indigenous population feeling betrayed and has rekindled deep-seated distrust towards the government. Josh Creamer, chairperson of the truth-telling inquiry, expressed his disappointment after learning about the legislation through an email right after Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie introduced it, highlighting a lack of communication and consideration extended to Indigenous voices within the government. In addition, Creamer emphasized that years of work towards building a foundation of trust and better relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have now been undone. The move was met with heated denunciations in parliament. Former Labor minister Leanne Enoch accused the government of failing the people of Queensland, while Greens MP Michael Berkman labeled the situation as indicative of a 'racist agenda.' This sentiment was echoed by Indigenous youth leaders who witnessed the event firsthand, many of whom were left in tears as they felt the weight of the government's decision. The controversy surrounding the government’s chosen course of action has fueled discussions about the broader implications for Indigenous rights and relations in Queensland. While the LNP in opposition once supported the treaty pathway legislation, their approach seems to have shifted drastically post-election, with LNP leader David Crisafulli having previously touted the law’s potential to positively impact Indigenous lives. The rapid repeal of such legislation following the recent voice referendum failure only exacerbates feelings of distrust and disappointment among Indigenous communities. As voices opposing this decision are marginalized, the systemic challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples become increasingly apparent, raising urgent questions regarding representation and consultation in Queensland's future governance.