The Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs has commenced an inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The inquiry follows a referral from the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy.
The committee will look into the nature, prevalence and impact of racism, hate and violence towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This includes examining systemic racism, the influence of online platforms, and initiatives that aim to combat racism.
The committee will also consider the threat posed by ideologically motivated extremism and the role of intelligence and law enforcement agencies in protecting the community from that threat.
Committee Chair, Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman Senator Jana Stewart, said “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people deserve to live free from racism, hate and violence. This inquiry is an important opportunity to understand the nature, prevalence and impact of racism in our communities and to identify practical actions for combatting racism and reducing individual and collective harm.”
“If we are serious about community safety, we must confront the environment in which hatred grows.”
The inquiry will also examine initiatives to reduce the individual and collective harm caused by racism, hatred and violence towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The committee encourages submissions and looks forward to hearing from a wide range of people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, about how we can work together to create safer and more respectful environments.
The Committee welcomes submissions on one or more of the terms of reference by Friday, 1 May 2026. Submissions can be written, or in other formats such as video, photos or artwork and emailed to [email protected] or sent via post.
Further information on the inquiry, including the terms of reference and how to contribute, is available on the Committee’s website.
Please note the committee and secretariat are unable to provide counselling, advice, or support for individuals. Help is available:
For First Nations people:
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- Brother to Brother: 1800 435 799
- Yarning SafeNStrong: 1800 959 563
For all people:
- Lifeline: Call 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- Headspace: 1800 650 890
- Suicide Call Back Service:1300 659 467
- 1800 Respect: 1800 737 732
Media inquiries
Office of Senator Jana Stewart
Media contact: Hannah Purdy
0438 003 838
