This discussion paper outlines a proposal for a new statutory office to strengthen government’s accountability to Aboriginal Western Australians and to advocate for Aboriginal people’s interests in government policy and performance.

Five academics and visitors at the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research made submissions as part of the Closing the Gap Refresh ‘Have Your Say’ process. The views of these individuals have been consolidated into this document to ensure their longer-term availability.

This submission focuses on the role of evaluation in ensuring Indigenous programs and services achieve their desired outcomes, and emphasises the importance of implementing a range of economic development targets.

In November 2017, the ACFID Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community of Practice hosted a forum in Alice Springs, entitled Effective Development Practice Strengthening Indigenous Voice, Decision Making and Control. This report documents forum outcomes and learnings that can inform other engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities throughout Australia.

This plan serves as a landmark partnership between the Aboriginal community, Government and community services organisations to commit to better outcomes for Aboriginal children and young people.