New Bill aims to embed accountability for Closing the Gap in ACT law
We were proud to welcome the tabling of the Public Sector (Closing the Gap) Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 by Thomas Emerson MLA.
This important Bill puts into law what community leaders have long called for: structural reform, genuine accountability, and shared responsibility across government to help close the gap.
In his address to the Assembly, Thomas said, ‘Closing the Gap is everyone’s job. This Bill is about embedding that shared responsibility into law – into the way our public service works, and the way our institutions are held accountable.’
The legislation responds directly to key findings from reviews of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which have highlighted that governments are falling short in transforming their systems and upholding their commitments.
The Bill will require ACT Government directorates to publicly report on how they are implementing the priority reforms of the National Agreement – including how they work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, support community-controlled organisations, and address institutional racism.
ATSIEB Chairperson Maurice Walker says the ATSIEB is ready to play a strong role in shaping how this is done.
‘If this Bill is passed, it means more opportunity for shared decision-making and self-determination,’ says Maurice. ‘It ensures that government can step towards meeting its commitments in being transparent and accountable to our community.’
Mr Emerson also noted that the Bill establishes a ‘Closing the Gap principle’ for all ACT public servants. This means government staff will be required to demonstrate cultural capability, promote cultural safety, and actively work to eliminate racism within their workplaces.
‘This is not a symbolic gesture,’ he said. ‘It’s structural. It changes the rules of the game.’
We see this as a strong and necessary step forward – one that reflects the advocacy and leadership of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. The Bill will be debated later this year.
