Publications we're featured in
Is Australia really a 'racist' country? I don't think so
EMMA GARLETT: The word racism has been on the tip of everyone's tongues. But the question remains: Is Australia really a racist country?
How NRL clubs can do more to stop racism
The fan who spoke out against racial slurs at the weekend deserves a medal but they exposed a flaw in the system that every club needs to look at.
EMMA GARLETT: Latrell boos have sinister feel of Goodes saga
If I was booed every time I walked into the office, I'd want out. But Latrell Mitchell is facing this every time he takes the field and it has the sinister feel of the Adam Goodes racism saga.
Don't fall for lie that caring for equality is un-Australian
EMMA GARLETT: The dust has settled on the announcement of Australia's incoming governor-general and the reaction to the appointment says a lot about our nation.
First Nations stories and archives must be preserved
With a heavy focus on digital and data, there is a question around the future of books and if it is a viable market
JC desperately needed support. So why did she end up dead?
The cracks in the criminal justice system need to close, and support mechanisms need to be tightened up and rigour tested because right now, it isn't working.
We need to make room for young people in leadership roles
They represent our future but there is a huge leadership gap brewing between our current Indigenous elders and Gen Z.
Investors, consumers expect climate action from businesses
As the debate around what type of electricity generation we should use and what our energy future will look like gathers steam, companies must focus on what they're doing to minimise their climate impact.
Spend up to give back this end of financial year
A real worthy way you can help others and give back is by choosing where to spend your hard-earned cash and do your part to support businesses that have a bigger mission to make the world a better place.
Don't let a prejudiced minority define Australia
I don't know one Indigenous person who has not experienced racism. But do these incidents mean the whole nation is racist? No, it does not.
Elders embracing tech to spread ancient knowledge
Big tech has already changed the way we do business and now it's culture's turn.
Budgets tell us a lot about a Govt's priorities and vision
Most Australians are far too focused on keeping their own household budget in the black to be too concerned about the state of the Federal books, except where it directly affects them.
Waning love of fast fashion opens doors for ethical brands
Many put comfort, style or practicality at the top of their list when it comes to fashion. But we also need to consider the ethics and sustainability of the pieces we choose to wear.
Indigenous music's power lies in its storytelling
Songs are integral to Indigenous culture as a powerful storytelling vessel, from the intense vibrations of the digeridoo, to soul-speaking vocals that worm their way into the brain and stay there.
Aboriginal people are still dying in custody
Since the royal commission, there have been 562 Indigenous deaths in custody. And since January 1 this year, there have been 19 deaths in custody. Four of those were First Nations people.
The extraordinary life of Bunuba woman June Oscar AO
From humble beginnings sleeping under the stars in Fitzroy Crossing to walking the halls of decision making in Australia as an advocate for Indigenous women, June Oscar has made a profound impact.
Police must build trust with Indigenous communities
When Jalba Dann first joined WA Police as one of its first Aboriginal Police Liaison Offices, he faced some backlash from those in his own community.
Corruption in Aboriginal organisations has got to stop
We need to ensure funds that are for our community stay in our community.
Arts sector has the power to make great change
Would you say that the arts and culture sector of Australia is just as important as the mining sector? Many likely wouldn't say they're on equal footing.
How State is getting back to unity after divisive referendum
Challenging the status quo to come together and unite is a mammoth task.
Freedom of speech isn't the freedom to spread racial hatred
Aboriginal women's empowerment charity Glass Jar Australia recently appointed Palyku and Ngangumarta woman Sophie Coffin to its board of directors.
Proud moment': New way of doing business a game-changer
If you want to make sure you're getting the very best out of a business deal, then you are in the right place.
Here's what you can actually do to help Indigenous people
The question itself is worth reflecting on, as the person asking it undoubtedly recognises they come from a place of privilege.
Why the gap isn't closing
Year after year, it's the same narrative. Our governments are failing in their promise to close the gaps that exist in health and educational outcomes for Indigenous people.
Lessons for all of us in leader Lowitja O'Donoghue's life
Without Indigenous activists working to bring attention to injustices and resolve them, progress would not be made, and mindsets would not shift
Who will lead next as Indigenous politicians retire
It takes a lot to put yourself in the spotlight - to be the centre of attention or the target for blame.
Pulling plug on water use shake-up is a missed opportunity
Recently the WA Government announced it would no longer reform the State's outdated water laws.
Booze restrictions alone will fail, better support is needed
Driving the streets of Broome, it didn't take me long to see first hand the extent of the alcohol problem confronting the town.
To work, booze bans must be driven by communities themselves
Fifteen young people - one just 14 years old - dead by their own hands in WA's North West in just four years.
Changing the date of Australia Day a simple act of kindness
Changing the date of Australia Day is not much, but it is something. It is a symbolic gesture, an act of kindness, an act of recognition that we are seen and heard.
Make 2024 a year to learn about the oldest living culture
As we think about starting new goals, levelling up in the New Year or pulling back on commitments to have more family time, I want you to add some dates to your calendar to learn about and explore in 2024...
Being heard doesn't mean the right people are listening
It's a tough gig, advocacy. It's all around us. It's an effort to educate others to gain public support for a cause or policy. And in most cases, what we can easily see, read, and hear informs us.
Supporting Indigenous businesses can make a real difference
Do you find it hard to gift presents to someone who has everything? Or would you like to make sure your money has real impact? The solution could be donating to an Indigenous charity this Christmas.
Don't leave us behind
If you are not already including Indigenous people in renewable energy projects - you are behind the eight ball. And you may be putting yourself and your projects at risk.
Changing the date of Australia Day a simple act of kindness
Changing the date of Australia Day is not much, but it is something. It is a symbolic gesture, an act of kindness, an act of recognition that we are seen and heard.
Coldplay's WA shows a masterclass in Indigenous inclusivity
With all the hype surrounding Coldplay's shows in WA, what stuck out for me wasn't their on-stage performance, but how they performed in terms of Indigenous inclusivity.
Less talk, more action: Shut down Unit 18 for good
Have you heard the saying 'if he wanted to, he would'? It is a saying some use in reference to relationships, to mean that if a person wanted to be or do better by others, then they would simply do so.
Native title doesn't do enough to preserve culture
In order to be granted native title rights, Aboriginal people still must prove their connection to their traditional lands, despite everyone knowing they were here first.
We must do more for our women, children and communities
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander woman, you are eight times more likely to be murdered than a-non Indigenous woman.
Our community is hurting but the journey doesn't end here
Ultimately the fate, future and welfare of 3 per cent of the population rested on the decision of the other 97 per cent. The referendum result was never our call, but yours.
Australia has long been split along racial lines
One of the go-to arguments to opponents of enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in our Constitution is that to do so would forever divide our country along racial lines.
Power to make change rests with non-Indigenous Australians
One hundred and twenty-two. That is the age of the Australian Constitution. And it has only been amended eight times.
Check your Voice facts: Don't get sucked into disinformation
Some conspiracy theorists have hypothesised and spread mistruths about the intention of the Voice to Parliament. It is not news that some people are not supportive of the Voice to Parliament, but why?
Yes rally turnout shows there's plenty of support for change
Tens of thousands of people marched in capital cities all over the country on the weekend in support of the Voice to Parliament. Australia showed up.
Voice is about a fair go: It's time to do things differently
You can read for yourself the details if you want to in the Government's information booklet outlining what the Voice will do. Just Google it.
I am voting Yes. Are you?
Momentum is growing and support for a successful referendum is in full swing. In six weeks, all Australians over the age of 18 will have the opportunity to make history for the better.
Understanding our history will prevent it repeating
These stories about our past, the interactions and relationships between Aboriginal people and settlers should be told and shared widely. It is an important component of truth-telling.
Labor's cultural heritage backflip exposes some ugly truths
Should the laws be pulled, it is an example of traditional owner interests being quashed for the gain of others.
Big profits aren't enough, miners must be responsible too
Huge profits are no longer enough. Now businesses and consumers expect miners to be socially responsible.
Indigenous Voice long overdue opportunity for lasting change
Will recognising Indigenous people mean non-Indigenous people are excluded or de-legitimised?
Award renews First Nations writer's love for storytelling
There was a time when Sharleigh Crittenden lacked confidence in her writing abilities. Now, she's penning a novel.
Youth detention turns troubled kids into hardened criminals
It is a benefit to all of us to keep as many children out of the justice system as possible.
Footy more than just a game for Aboriginal people
Footy, Aussie rules, AFL. Whatever you call it, it is the game that brings the nation together.
Stories we choose to pass on tell us about who we are
Indigenous stories are the bedrock of Australia, and we need to dig beneath the surface to find the hidden gems of our future talent which will transform the nation.
Inspiring First Nations lawyer removing barriers to justice
Meet Michelle Sims, she is on a journey to make sure First Nations people can access legal advice instantly when they need it. Her work aims to remove barriers for First Nations people to access justice.
They're warriors, matriarchs & leaders. We must cherish them
This year's NAIDOC Week theme is 'For our Elders'. We should always celebrate our Elders and too often they are not given the recognition they deserve.
Water law reform must reflect sacred cultural significance
Law reform has been occurring in Australia for generations. It should be no surprise that our laws get amended to come into alignment with changing societal norms and values.
Don't be fooled by scaremongering on cultural heritage laws
Change can and does bring out the worst in people. It brings out deep insecurities and fear in people who did not agree to or want the change in the first place.
Embracing Indigenous culture will create a safer Carnarvon
Lately, Carnarvon has had a bad rap. The coastal town hit the spotlight with the kidnapping of Cleo Smith in 2021, youth gangs ramming cop cars this year, and implementing WA's strictest alcohol restrictions.
New premier has a proven commitment to Indigenous affairs
With Roger Cook and his Indigenous wife Carly Lane by his side, I know we are in good hands.
Sorry Day is a time to reflect on Australia's past
Sorry Day is a time to think about the impacts of Australian practices and attitudes towards Indigenous Australians.
We must fix root causes to stop churn of kids through prison
Crime can be a result of the manifestation of unaddressed social issues in communities. There is a bigger problem brewing in communities. We need to stop the pipeline of kids going into Banksia Hill.
Including Indigenous people in net zero goal is a no-brainer
A couple of days ago it was announced the Government will legislate a national net zero authority. The last Coalition government did not act on this for a decade.
Good stories influence us and shape our thoughts & feelings
First Nations Australians have a rich history of oral storytelling. Our old people pass down their knowledge through telling stories to young people. There were no textbooks, no computers. Only words.
Time to recognise Australia's forgotten Indigenous soldiers
When I was a kid, I wasn't taught about the Indigenous soldiers who fought for our country. I didn't know how many Indigenous men chose to serve a country which didn't serve them.
Indigenous bodies need help to protect their culture
It is concerning that it took so long to allow a 'new' way to manage Aboriginal cultural heritage which gives Aboriginal people a stronger say to manage their own cultural heritage.
Indigenous leaders say a 'Yes vote' will benefit all Aussies
The cogs are turning. Indigenous affairs and human rights are a priority.
Gumatj leader Yunupingu has gone home but won't be forgotten
Across Australia, we as Aboriginal people went into mourning for the loss of a profound leader who dedicated his life to achieving justice, rights, and recognition for Aboriginal people.
Don't be fooled by scaremongering ahead of Voice referendum
In the past week, there has been a flurry of action for the upcoming referendum. The wheels are turning, momentum is growing, and the referendum has truly taken its course.
My Nanna was a slave and it's time WA paid what she was owed
We had slaves in WA. Slave is a strong word and I use it with the utmost caution. But the reality is, our grandparents' generation did not have a choice in the work they were forced to do by white authorities.
First Nations fashion gives wearable connection to culture
Indigenous fashion and clothing has also evolved from our traditional wear. But what remains is the connection to country and the connection to culture from time immemorial.
Trailblazers changed the story for Indigenous people
We wouldn't be where we are today without the trailblazers of the past, the champions of the present and the innovators, disrupters, and visionaries of our future.
Give kids a sporting chance at staying out of trouble
Of course, sport is not the only answer - you need a lot more than a ball to kick around to address the root of the problem, but sport is a good start, and it has proven results.
Cops often seen as the bad guys but it's slowly improving
Seeing this protest and the responses made me reflect on the relationship between First Nations people and police.
Fight to save the planet is moving into Australian courts
Many environmental groups, traditional owners and climate activists have been involved in running ground-breaking cases to protect our environment.
Research shines a light on the power of Aussie bush tucker
It seems the value and quality of our bush tucker is being realised by many other cultures and countries, demand is growing quickly, and the power of bush foods is being backed by new research.
Vile story of strip search teen shows need for remand centre
The Government admitted in 2017 closing Rangeview remand centre was a 'really bad decision'. So why has nothing changed?
Australia deserves a national day representing all citizens
Just because we have always celebrated Australia Day one way, does not mean we should continue in the same way. We should not be bound to the behaviour of the past.
Our governments must act as we adjust to the 'new normal'
It is not normal to have your backyard flooded to the extreme extent we have recently seen up north, but over the past decade we have seen many of our towns go underwater and need urgent help.
Guest Editor Emma Garlett On Progress To Reconciliation-This Reconciliation Week And Beyond
Emma Garlett is a First Nations leader who is a Director at Garlett Group, a boutique sustainability and communications firm which helps businesses, government and not-for-profits engage and work with Indigenous people and communities effectively. She holds and has held roles in the private sector, minerals industry, legal services and academia.
Aboriginal groups must be included in flood response effort
The Matuwarra Fitzroy River and its people are hurting, having just endured the biggest flood in WA's history.
Banksia Hill New Year's Eve riot was an SOS call
What more evidence is needed for the McGowan Government to listen to the many Indigenous voices which have been long calling for change to our child detention centres?
Resolve to educate yourself about Indigenous Australia
This year, I'd like you to make one of your New Year's resolutions to educate yourself about our Indigenous peoples in Australia.
Including traditional custodians in land management is vital
An integral component of maintaining our pristine land is our Indigenous rangers and traditional custodians who care for our country now and who will continue to into the future.
When old political foes unite, listen to what they say
How often do political opponents agree? Not often. And what do you do when you see two former political opponents unite? You agree with them.
The Blak-owned businesses you can buy from this Christmas
The gift-giving season is here and if you have a few extra dollars to spare and want to do so in a sustainable and ethical way, I encourage you to buy Blak this Christmas.
Aboriginal people have long been Australia's legal losers
The blasting of Juukan Gorge caused international outrage and led to reform of WA's Aboriginal cultural heritage laws. How was it legal to ruin 46,000 years of cultural heritage and human history?
Indigenous voices must be heard to solve Banksia Hill crisis
The emergency summit to address the youth justice crisis will get only 90 minutes of the Premier's time. Most people would spend longer than that at Sunday brunch.
For Aboriginal people, prison is the rule not the exception
Like many Aboriginal people, I have family who have been in and out of prison. One of my earliest memories is hugging family members at a funeral while they were handcuffed to a prison officer.
Why the racist trolls will never silence me
Since I started writing this column sharing the perspective of a young Indigenous woman, the one question I'm asked more than any other is 'aren't you scared of the backlash?'
The loss of Cassius raises questions about anti-racism laws
Racist experiences are all too common and for some people racism is the punchline of their jokes.
Diamonds sponsorship row could have been easily avoided
Clearly, there was a misalignment of values from some players that resulted in Netball Australia's now $15 million crisis.
Best Australian Yarn: Author reveals judging panel secrets
As someone who spends his time immersed in the power of words and stories, Kim Scott finds his role as a judge for The Best Australian Yarn short story competition both daunting and exciting.
Carly Lane returns to AGWA to head Indigenous art programs
Two years ago, Carly Lane was burnt out, unsure if she still had passion for her work curating Indigenous art at major galleries. After a break to recharge, she's back at AGWA with fire in her belly.
Why is there so much confusion and fearmongering over WA's new Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act?
The new law, which came into effect this week, aims to better reflect the aspirations of Aboriginal people in decisions that impact their cultural heritage. Some say it doesn't go far enough.
Award renews First Nations writer's love for storytelling
There was a time when Sharleigh Crittenden lacked confidence in her writing abilities. Now, she's penning a novel.
Don't fall for lie that caring for equality is un-Australian
The dust has settled on the announcement of Australia's incoming governor-general and the reactions to the appointment of the gender equity advocate as the King's representative says a lot about our nation.
Great mentors can make a profound difference
The appointment of Justice Michael Lundberg is a watershed moment.
Emma Garlett hopes to be a calm voice for her people
Emma Garlett was inspired by her parents to advocate for Indigenous people but she says it is her generation which holds the key to a brighter future
Youth detention turns troubled kids into hardened criminals
It is a benefit to all of us to keep as many children out of the justice system as possible.
Meet The West Australian's new columnist Emma Garlett
New columnist Emma Garlett wants to bridge the gap between her community and the general population.
Update WA's water laws to acknowledge Indigenous rights
The limitations in native title law for rights to water are unacceptable and need to be addressed in any future water law regimes.
It's smart business to engage with Indigenous entrepreneurs
Like a lot of Indigenous people, I grew up poor in an overcrowded house. We lived on Black and Gold brand products from the bottom shelf and powdered milk for our Nescafe coffees.
Emma's quest for equality and to 'make things better' for her people
With Oxford University in her sights, lawyer Emma Garlett is on a mission to use her John Monash Scholarship to learn about ways to get more Aboriginal people involved in mining strategy decisions.
NAIDOC week a time for celebration and reflection
Every year I would count down the days to NAIDOC Week. I loved seeing dot paintings around the school, my family coming to talk to my classmates, hearing the didgeridoo being played at the school assembly.
Archie Roach's profound impact will be felt for generations
To honour Uncle Archie's legacy, we must continue the path of reconciliation.
New King can help heal wounds left by colonisation
The new King has a powerful opportunity before him to listen to our story and help us move forward.
Both sides of Voice agree on constitutional recognition
As the referendum draws nearer, we are starting to gain clarity around what the Voice to Parliament is and how we should vote.
Stop the exploitation of Aboriginal culture and knowledge
From stealing our land to selling our stories and art. C'mon really?
Aboriginal cultural centres a key step in healing journey
We like to see what we value and hold dear transformed into an infrastructure project
Are you sitting on Australia's next greatest short story?
The Best Australian Yarn has become the richest short story competition in the world, with a record $50,000 to be awarded to this year's winner.
Indigenous Voice to Parliament dividing Geraldton
"A lot of our laws actually don't prioritise or add weight to what indigenous people want, especially when it comes to decisions which affect them" said Emma Garlett on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
'Lawyers should educate themselves' on Indigenous issues
Young lawyers need to be extremely self-aware and educate themselves when dealing with Indigenous issues and clients - in order to change the narrative for good. Emma Garlett is a Nyiyaparli, Yama
Reconciliation needs a long commitment
WA's Indigenous business leaders are urging companies to implement long-term reconciliation action plans and increase Aboriginal representation at the board level.
