Date:  20 December 2007

NEW ERA OF CO-OPERATION TO BENEFIT TERRITORIANS

Chief Minister Paul Henderson said today’s Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting of leaders and Treasurers in Melbourne has cemented a new era of Territory-Federal co-operation.

“Providing the best possible standard of services for Territory families is too important to be stuck in political sparring, and I welcome the commitment from all jurisdictions to take out the politics and get on with job,” Mr Henderson said.

“Key amongst the discussions today was the Rudd Government’s agenda to cut elective surgery waiting times, with the Territory to share in $150 million of national funding.

“Treasurer Delia Lawrie and Health Minister Chris Burns will now work with their interstate and national counterparts on the delivery of the commitment, which will build on the 31% cut in overdue elective surgery times already delivered by my Government.

“COAG has today confirmed its commitment to close the gap on Indigenous disadvantage, including setting targets to improve life expectancy, and education and health outcomes for Indigenous people.

“I particularly welcome the Federal Government’s agreement to double its funding for alcohol and drug rehabilitation, particularly in remote areas – a decision arising from discussions between the Prime Minister and Indigenous leaders in Darwin last weekend.

“These measures will support the ongoing efforts of the Territory Government’s five-year Closing the Gap initiative.

“COAG has also agreed to accelerate the National Secondary School Computer Fund, which will directly benefit about 10,000 Territory students.

“The Northern Territory will play an active role in all seven of the new COAG working groups, including as Deputy Co-Chair of the Indigenous reform group.

“The Northern Territory is unique, with great challenges and great opportunities, and I will continue to build a relationship with the new Federal Government that will deliver for Territorians.”

Mr Henderson returns to Darwin this evening.

Contact: Rebecca Cass 0401 110 389