National Close the Gap Day

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, individuals, and organisations have worked tirelessly over the last 12 months to push for better outcomes and recognition for our communities.  The year has seen extraordinary advocacy, action, and strength, as well as steep challenges and deep disappointments, including the defeat of the Voice proposal in the October 2023 Referendum. Despite the setbacks, this report refocuses the narrative on our peoples’ strengths and successes.

It showcases our people’s unwavering commitment to our communities, and our staunch calls for governments and, more broadly, Australia to do more towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recognition, rights, justice and equity.  

The themes of this year’s report are Progressing Voice, Treaty, Truth, Leadership and Governance and Building our Economies. They are explored through case studies, which are exemplars of Blak excellence. The themes speak to economic, social, political and cultural determinants of health that are crucial to commitments by Australian governments to Closing the Gap.