First Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-Led Review of Closing the Gap Underway – Have Your Say
The independent review of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap is now underway, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a critical opportunity to shape policies that directly impact their lives.
The Closing the Gap Agreement requires an independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led review every three years (clause 125). This review builds on the Productivity Commission Review delivered in 2024, focusing on the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people involved in implementing the Agreement.
As part of the process, the Coalition of Peaks will host an Assembly, a face-to-face gathering of people with lived experience of the Closing the Gap Agreement. The Assembly will bring together key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives from across Australia – across sectors and jurisdictions – to provide real-time feedback on what’s working, what’s not, and where urgent improvements are needed.
"The Review and Assembly are self-determination in action," said Pat Turner AM, Lead Convenor of the Coalition of Peaks. “This is about getting governments to follow through on their commitments and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people drive the change we need.”
The Assembly was built into the Closing the Gap Agreement in 2020 as a key accountability mechanism. It provides a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to directly influence what comes next for practical actions on the four Priority Reforms.
“This isn’t politics—it’s about accountability. Every level of government agreed to this process to create a space for genuine input and meaningful change,” Ms Turner said. “The Agreement, including this Review and Assembly, was designed to extend beyond the typical election cycle to drive long-term impact and accountability.”
The independent review is being led by the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at UTS.
“The foundation of our work at Jumbunna is the self-determination of our communities, and the Indigenous values of empowerment and agency of our peoples. We are honoured to have been asked to undertake this first independent review because the gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories and perspectives is vital to drive the solutions our communities need,” said Jumbunna Director, Professor Lindon Coombes.
Jumbunna is gathering feedback through:
Written submissions
Interviews
In-person yarning circles, forums and interviews in six place-based locations
“We need as many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as possible to take part. This isn’t just about measuring progress – it’s about shaping the future and making sure governments stay accountable,” Ms Turner added.
Have your say by 16 April – for more information visit the website.