About Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice
The position of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner was created by the federal Parliament in December 1992.
It was a response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and the National Inquiry into Racist Violence, as well as the extreme social and economic disadvantage faced by Indigenous Australians.
A major function of the Commissioner is to report annually to federal Parliament on significant social justice and native title issues facing Indigenous Australians
Another important role is to keep Indigenous issues before the federal Government and the Australian community and to promote understanding and respect for the rights of Indigenous Australians.
He does this by reviewing legislation, providing policy advice and undertaking research on Indigenous human rights issues including health, family violence, children’s rights, cognitive disabilities and the ‘stolen generation’.
The Commissioner also makes submissions to Parliamentary and other inquiries, gives speeches, supports Indigenous education initiatives and publishes a wide range of resources and statistics.
CSR principles have been developed that provide a human rights approach to development on Indigenous land.
In order to do his job, the Commissioner consults with Indigenous communities and organisations, as well as a wide range of non-Indigenous organisations, to get their views and expertise.
He also participates in the development of international human rights standards relating to Indigenous peoples.
Tom Calma was appointed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner in July 2004 for a five year term.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner is a member of the Australian Human Rights Commission.
