SNAICC chairperson Sharron Williams has congratulated Nova Peris on her election as a Senator for the Northern Territory and becoming the first Aboriginal woman to enter Federal Parliament.
“Nova’s election is another important step in the reconciliation process and her profile will help to bring to the fore the issues and needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander citizens in the NT,” Ms Williams said.
“Just as important, Nova’s election should inspire other Indigenous Australians —particularly our women — to run for parliament. A healthy Australian democracy needs to reflect the diversity of the country’s population and cultures in its houses of parliament.
“Nova becomes only the fourth Aboriginal representative in Federal Parliament’s history. Let’s hope her election leads to a substantial rise in the coming years.
“SNAICC is confident that Nova will show the same determination in representing her constituents and her people that led to such success on the sporting field and to her becoming a respected role model.
“Indigenous Australians were very proud when Nova became the first Aboriginal athlete to win an Olympic gold medal and we are even more proud of her today.
“On behalf of SNAICC, I congratulate Nova on her latest achievement.
We look forward to meeting with her and discussing the pressing issues faced by Aboriginal children and families in the NT.”
Media inquiries: Frank Hytten, SNAICC CEO, on (0432) 345 652;
Emma Sydenham, SNAICC Deputy CEO, (0415) 188990
Giuseppe Stramandinoli, SNAICC Media Officer, (0419) 508 125
