The First Nation(s) Party has officially entered the register of political parties in the ACT.
Party founder and local Ngambri-Kamberri and Ngunnawal custodian Paul Girrawah House announced the formation of the party in a press conference at the ACT Legislative Assembly today.
Mr House says that the party will be a historic step for Canberra and the nation and will be a significant opportunity to have a First Nations voice in the ACT Legislative Assembly.
“This is the first time that a party representing Indigenous people has been registered to contest ACT Legislative Assembly elections.”
“Whilst there have been trailblazing Indigenous politicians elected to Federal, State and Territory governments in the past, none have belonged to an Indigenous party.”
The ACT Electoral Commissioner, the party “is now eligible to nominate candidates for the 2024 ACT Legislative Assembly election.”
Highlighting the recent Voice Referendum not being successful, the Party is running on ‘A voice in the ACT Legislative Assembly’, and is calling on Canberrans who supported the Voice to vote one for First Nations candidates.
The voices of First Nation’s people have been neglected for too long in the ACT.
“Health, housing and traditional land management are critical areas where First Nations people’s voices need a strong and compassionate seat at the table,” Mr House said.
Details of policies in these and other areas and candidates will be announced over the next weeks and months, with House saying he expects the party will attract strong candidates in every electorate.
“I will lead the new party in presenting a strong and inclusive agenda for Canberrans.”
“For the first time, all Canberrans will have an opportunity to vote for First Nation candidates in the local Assembly.”
