‘Truth through Transparency’: A turning point for accountability and outcomes in the ACT
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (Elected Body) today released its 2025 August Hearings Report, ‘Truth through Transparency’: A Turning Point Report. The report presents a shift in how government progress and outcomes are examined and communicated in the ACT.
For the first time, the Elected Body has undertaken its own full, evidence-based assessment of the ACT Government’s progress against the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2019–2028 (ACT Agreement). The Elected Body tested evidence, examined underlying data and assessed whether commitments made under the ACT Agreement are creating real change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We are proud to have brought forward the many voices of community who contributed to the hearings process, especially in providing questions, so that the Elected Body are assured they are representing the broad interests of our community.
What the Hearings revealed is deeply concerning. Of the 22 targets under the ACT Agreement, only four are on track. Four are not on track, eight have worsened, and six are not being measured at all. These findings show that outcomes have not just stalled – in many areas, they have gone backwards.
This is why the Elected Body has named this the Turning Point Report.
‘This report is about telling the truth, clearly and transparently,’ Elected Body Chairperson, Maurice Walker, said. ‘If public policy is measured by outcomes, then what this evidence shows is that policy is failing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT.’
Despite these findings, the Elected Body is clear: there is hope if transparency is embraced. The Elected Body acknowledges that progress has been made. To face current and future challenges, this report calls for truth, transparency, and accountability across the ACT Public Service and beyond.
‘Transparency gives truth, and truth gives us another beginning. We need shared data, real accountability and genuine partnership – not more plans, but action taken side by side with community,’ Maurice said.
‘Truth through Transparency’: A Turning Point Report presents where the ACT currently stands, while being an invitation to the ACT Government to reset its approach. It calls for joined-up systems, proportional and community-controlled funding, and leadership that recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the leaders of change.
The Elected Body presents this report with determination and the message that, with honesty, accountability and partnership, there is still time to transform systems and deliver the outcomes promised under the ACT Agreement.
