Flaws in Indigenous Scholarship Program

These are just a few of the threads that could be followed to review current approaches and build a new more considered strategy to address remote Indigenous disadvantage.

To say that the Government should walk away from its responsibilities for overcoming Indigenous disadvantage for all Indigenous Australians and invest in a privileged lucky few is an outrage, and must be challenged. It should not be applauded or honoured with positions on influential councils or generous untied Government funds.

The AIEF's media release on Penfold's appointment to the new Prime Minister's Indigenous Advisory Council quotes him as follows

Education has always been the key to human progress, irrespective of race, colour or creed. If we are serious about addressing Indigenous inequality we've got to make sure kids go to good schools. Without that there is no hope at all of reversing the spiral of despair for the new generation of Indigenous children.

Andrew Penfold, I now urge you to earn your honourable reputation and do just that – make sure, through your work and high level of influence, that this Government governs in a way that ensures ALL Indigenous kids can go to good schools. Don't let this develop into a cosy little arrangement to shovel more and more Government funds your way.