Views from Western Australia

Australia Day 2008, what are we clelebrating?

It seems that the biggest news of the day (in Perth at least) was the demise of Australia’s highest paid public servant, WA Health Department boss Neale Fong, over his not disclosing the nature of his relationship with disgraced former Premier Brian Burke. Then later we heard that Australian Cricketer Adam Gilchrist was hanging up his gloves.

What does all of this mean? and, what does it mean about being Australian?

Perhaps nothing, you might say and perhaps you are correct?

Have we progressed from the seventies view of Australia being all about ‘meat pies, kangaroos, and holden cars’? Are we showing any maturity as a nation?

 

The highlight of the day seems to be a big party, in P’erth it is a fireworks display over the river that is attended by about 300,000 people. Plenty of flags and revellry; but is this what its all about?

Earlier in the day was the ‘Survival Concert’, with its own controversy. Some see this as an important symbolic event, others who attend regularly see it as a nightmare of an event on a sweltering hot day. One way or another, it is an important acknowledgement that this is Aboriginal land, always was and always will be.

Perhaps Germaine Greer’s ascertain in ‘White Fella Jump Up’ that Australians need to take on an Aboriginality is what being Australian is all about. Once we invaders ‘become Aboriginal’, we become Australian. Many would choke at the thought, but in essence Greer is probably correct. Not that she said anything particularly new, but it has a resonance as non Indigenous Australians always seem to be like strangers in a strange land. Trying to work out how and where they fit.

Then on January 29, 2008 this popped up on the media and what follows are 424 comments from computer literate Australians…

PRIME Minister Kevin Rudd said the Government will apologise to indigenous Australia’s stolen generations when parliament resumes next month, but will not establish a compensation fund.

Mr Rudd said his campaign promise would be realised during the parliament’s first sitting, but did not give a date for the formal apology.

He said the apology was necessary because long-standing problems plaguing indigenous communities could not be addressed until it was made…

The following comments are from an Australian media website of that day:

Doesn’t the Government give them enough!! Chris of Melb 8:32am Comment 1 of 424

Whether or not the government sets up a compensation fund is not the issue so many, non- aboriginal, Australians are concerned about. The concern relates to whether or not Aboriginal groups will sue the country for compensation through the courts. This has nothing to do with a compensation fund of any kind. Before saying sorry the government must ensure that no legal action can be taken that will simply mean tax payers money going to Aboriginals as compensation. Somebody of Sydney 8:33am Comment 2 of 424

I am absolutely against any kind of apology and this is even more so when today there is widespread children abuse in the aboriginal communities, and a large number of aboriginal children as young as 7yo break the law . The best thing that could happen to these children would be to be removed from their communities and be given a chance to a normal life: isn’t this exactly what past governments (with much more compassion than those of today) tried to do? There may have been abuses, but the intention was no doubt good. Why apologising for it? Danny B of WA 8:37am Comment 3 of 424

Well said Mr. Rudd. I applaude his clear and rational approach to this sensitive subject. Troy of Brisbane 8:39am Comment 4 of 424

Why isn’t apologising for what happened in the past enough? It has always been stated that saying sorry is what was wanted. Now monetary compensation is being sought! The people living in this country today are NOT responsible for the wrong doings in the past and should not be made to fork out money! If that is the case I should be able to sue the government for NOT taking me out of an abusive upbringing just because I was white! To the Aboriginal community, accept the apology and let it rest! Bill of Perth 8:43am Comment 5 of 424

good work rudd. About time you showed some backbone. No compensation but money should be spent on repatriation, reuniting and education. da mob of orcal massive 8:43am Comment 6 of 424

What an intersting bit of spin. How can speaking in the name of the govenment which is elected and represented by the people of Australia not be apologising on behalf of the people of Australia. I thought Kevin 07 represented all Australians and made that clear in his acceptance speach. The lack of the establishment of a fund also does not stop the law suits from coming……it just doesn’t define the size of the compensation pie and lets the government watch how exposed they are in the courts before deciding on a "settlement" at a later stage once the risk has been assessed from the first few rounds. Typical slick words from Kevin 07 and his team to try to get the masses to believe there will be no compensation after an apology. Allan of Gold Coast 8:45am Comment 7 of 424

I’m opposing this because it’s a symbolic gesture that will not provide any real solutions, and any monies paid will actually make the situation worse (just like all other sit down money paid until now). On top of this empty gesture, the KRudd government is planning to re-impose the permit system that led to a complete breakdown of social order in so many remote communities. Shane 8:46am Comment 8 of 424

There are other ways of saying i’m sorry rather than continually pouring money into an area that has received millions of dollars already with no return. NA of Victoria 8:46am Comment 9 of 424

Yes. My fear is legal action against the Government (AKA Tax Payers). Don’t screw things up before you start Rudd. I am sick of paying off Labour Dept (State and Fed) for stupid actions. Pete of Sth Aust 8:47am Comment 10 of 424

Anything said on the floor of parliament cannot be used in any evidence in any court, ever, anywhere. So an apology in parliament will not make ANY difference to whether or not indigenous people can sue the government. As far as the courts are concerned, the apology will not exist. Seriously "Somebody of Sydney" and your redneck buddies, look it up before mouthing off about law suits. F. Delano of Toowoomba 8:47am Comment 11 of 424

I thought the issue was about Indigenous Australiaians wanting an apology, not money. Since when does an apology = money??? Craig 8:47am Comment 12 of 424

It was great to hear that the government is getting legal advice on whether an apology will have any influence on subsequent claims for compensation. I dunno - maybe they could’ve got the advice before they promised to give an apology in the first place? Not Rudd, talk first and worry about the billions later. Chris of Sydney 8:48am Comment 13 of 424

I hope this apology works, and makes Indigineous people understand that most Australians are apologetic for what happened. But indigineous people need to understand, that many Caucasian families suffered the same problem, having children taken away, as they were not supplying decent living conditions for children.. the problem here is, if the Indigineous community, after they recieve the apology, then attempt to make this a financial matter, they will be showing their true intentions. Not about reconcillliation, but it would be all about the DOLLAR.  Hmmmmm of Here 8:50am Comment 14 of 424

What is there to say sorry about? The fact that children were rescued from abusive alcoholic parents? If attrocities were committed, I am sorry that it happened however I just cannot say sorry on behalf of persons whom I neither know nor are no longer living. This is nothing more than a political stunt to shut up all those lefties who voted for KRudd. Stefano of Sydney 8:50am Comment 15 of 424

Wait until the lawyers get involved….then let us see how much of our hard earned tax dollars gets paid in compensation claims. Mr. Rudd, if you honestly believe there will be no claims arising from this "Sorry", you are more naive than I ever imagined.  John of Perth 8:51am Comment 16 of 424

I agree with Somebody (comment 2). Measures need to be put in place before anyone opens their mouth to say sorry to stop these possible law suits from happening. I am all for apologies all ’round but the government has given so much to this group of people to help them but they refuse to help themselves. More money isn’t going to make their lives better until THEY try to make their lives better. Em of Melbourne 8:52am Comment 17 of 424

I admire Mr Rudds approach. The last thing we need to do is throw more money at the Aboriginal people. To bridge the gap, we need to take a real Aussie approach and shake hands, say sorry mate and move on. Offering more money or a bride only seperates us further. Speedy of Port Macquarie 8:55am Comment 18 of 424

Lets see if the Aboriginal Community is big enough to accept the apology and move on. Bring on the Forgiveness Statement. Rodo 8:56am Comment 19 of 424

Kevin Rudd does not have a clue. No compensation, yeah right, court case here we come. The only winners in this will be the lawyers. Aussie Lad of Broken Down NSW 8:57am Comment 20 of 424

There is no need for an apology, there is only need to build better relations between Aboriginal people and other Citizens of Australia. Weather that’s scrapping the laws and handouts that are currently given to Aboriginal or T.S. backgrounded people, to opening better education opportunities without disadvantage to other students. It’s quite amazing personally, i grew up in a white public school, and we were taught Aboriginal Art and Culture, but that’s only because the school had a sub-division which taught Aboriginal Students only, which was ridiculous. But having them assimilate into modern society will be easier than most of the other incoming ‘citizens’. No need to say sorry though, we’ve done nothing wrong, alot of people had ancestors come to this country who didn’t supposedly slaughter many Aboriginal ancestors or steal them from homes. Amazingly if you read properly documented history, aboriginals killed more of their own than white fellas did. They also handed their own children over to the white people because their children would become better educated, and do better than they would in their culutrally dominated areas.  Tim of Shepparton 8:57am Comment 21 of 424

The money should be spent on giving them education rather than giving it straight to them in cash. History has proven that they are unable to manage money properly. Also some lessons in not trashing your government supplied house would also be of benefit to them. TheWord of Canberra 8:58am Comment 22 of 424

no money promised! HA HA HA Mel of Bris 8:59am Comment 23 of 424

I am not sorry I have done nothing wrong, this whole thing is a joke and only about money which will create more division within the community….everyone knows they will sue the government and win….it is the Aboriginals who continually drive a wedge between them and the rest of the community….they do not want equal treatment, they want special treatment….  Matthew James of Parra 9:00am Comment 24 of 424

Chris of Melbourne - comment 1 - you are spot on!  pb 9:01am Comment 25 of 424

Kevin, you really are a clone. Congratulations on electing a Bureaucrat. At least i know the future fund is now probably now known as the "sorry" fund. What a Crock.   Livin in LaborLand of nsw 9:02am Comment 26 of 424

Thank goodness, now the systemic failure of a whole society to move on will be overcome with the use of one word. I can see us now, moving forward together to the broad sun lit flat lands where all of us have the same opportunity to make the best of ourselves. Or maybe I can’t. Maybe this is a meaning less pandering to a few in which the Rudd Government is already alarmingly starting to specialise in. Bugger, bugger, bugger - that appears already to have been a vote wasted  Andrew of the City of The City 9:06am Comment 27 of 424

Didn’t the government give them centrelink? What else could they possibly want?  Adam of Sydney 9:06am Comment 28 of 424

This is not purely about something that happened 100s of years ago. Many of the victims and perpetrators are still alive. Children were not only taken from drunken, abusive parents. We don’t go into African, or Papau New Guinean villages and take their children because their families live in third world poverty and have tribal belief systems… we help build them up and develop. We should have done the same for the aboriginals when we moved into their countries.  Paul 9:07am Comment 29 of 424

Are we apologising to every single child taken to different families? I agree some of it was wrong, but wasn’t some of it also very warranted given the circumstances from which they left?  Mark of Sydney 9:07am Comment 30 of 424

And when does a person stop being aboriginal enough to not receive payments? Grandfather? Great Grandfather? Great Great Grandfather? I’ve seen so called Aboriginals who do press conferences that are whiter than snow white but claim they’re in touch with their "aboriginality". If that’s the case I’m in touch with my Roman roots, gimmie my Italian Passport. Dil Andau 9:09am Comment 31 of 424

It’s "Press Conference Kevin"! Make the big announcement for the kudos, worry about the consequences later! He’s gunna, gunna, gunna, do it! Bruce of Sydney 9:10am Comment 32 of 424

Nice politics Mr Rudd. Tap into a well known source of social division and capitalise politically rather than deal with the issue at hand. I see you learn well.  JWH of Sydney 9:10am Comment 33 of 424

Saying sorry will open the flood gates to lawsuits as the Government is admitting that they caused hardship and pain to the stolen generations (which I am sure they actually did). Once the Government admits to that then they could be entitled to compensation. I can just see all the lawyers licking their chops now. David of Brisbane 9:10am Comment 34 of 424

What a load of CRAP ! Perhaps Kevin Rudd should also apologise to the Australian electorate for being down right STUPID ! Graham of Moore Park 9:10am Comment 35 of 424

Compensation claims are gained through the courts of law and Rudd doesn’t have the power to stop that. I heard on the news this morning that 500 people have already sought legal advice to begin compensation claims. Rudd and the entire Labour govt. are living with the pixies. ar of nsw 9:10am Comment 36 of 424

what a lot of hollow words from Kevin Rudd - the man who on Saturday was celebrating the "birth day" of Australia with no mention of the fact that this land has been inhabited and lived on by our indigenous people for so much longer than the timeframe he gave reference to. What are you actually sorry for Mr Rudd ? flick 9:11am Comment 37 of 424

I’m glad there’s finally going to be an apology for certain peoples actions towards aboriginals in the past. I also believe the government should compensate indigenous Australians. I just think it would be alot better spent providing further education and medical attention in rural areas instead of individual handouts here and there. Jessica of Melb cbd 9:12am Comment 38 of 424

Where is my laptop? Also, my fuel, grocery prices and day to day living expenses are going up not down, not even staying the same. You promised you would help out there. Stop being a socially divisive little man and get on with being PM. Dear Kevin of Australia 9:13am Comment 39 of 424

They’ll sue in the courts anyway, Rudd, and we’ll spend a fortune in legal time. Get it now? Nemesis12 9:13am Comment 40 of 424

This has never ben about the symbolic nature of Sorry, this is about a money grab - Once we say we are sorry, then we must commpensate because we have admitted guilt for something none of us has done. Pandoras Box is about to be opened David of Perth 9:14am Comment 41 of 424

Instead of the Governmetn saying sorry, the aborigines should be saying thankyou to the ‘white fella’ for taking the children away to a place where they wouldnt be abused. I bet alot of this ’stolen gereration’ wouldn’t even be alive today is they weren’t taken from the slums where they came from rathbone of Alice Springs 9:15am Comment 42 of 424

I don’t feel the Government has to apologise on my behalf since I as well as my children and hundreds of thousands of others never lived here at the time. I feel insulted if there is a class action for compensation against the Government who represents ALL Australians. That’s not to say I don’t feel sorry if in the context of the time there were mistakes made. Don’t forget children still are taken from their parents. WHITE people that is. Frank of Brisbane 9:15am Comment 43 of 424

Gee i can’t get over this CRAP.PY attitude most of the posters here exhibit. HE IS APOLOGISING ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT. NOT YOU. EVEN THOUGH IT PROBABLY WOULDN’T KILL YOU TO SAY "GEE IM SORRY THAT HAPPENED TO YOU." You know, as a decent human being. But, oh, right, they’re black. And guess what, if they turned violent and alcoholic, guess who’s fault that is? Who gave them alcohol and killed their families? I’m not saying give them a hand out, but I’d much rather my taxes go to an aboriginal person’s healthcare than funding a war in iraq. Your selfishness for your position of privilege is absolutely abhorrent. Butcher of Brisbane 9:17am Comment 44 of 424

In a highly litigious country, why not give them the same opportunity we have to sue for all the silly cases and solicitor made up lies. Once again the Aboriginals getting the short end of the stick…. Fair Go of Sydney 9:18am Comment 45 of 424

So the Krudd government thinks there won’t be any payout’s. That will be up to some bleeding heart judge not the government. peter of the vines 9:19am Comment 46 of 424

Most of have known for years that a simple sorry would never be enough, even though for years we have been told the contrary by the indigenous population. There will be a calling for compensation without doubt. If this is to happen I feel it will create an even bigger wedge between the indigenous and non indigenous population within this country. I was taken away from my mother at birth due to pressure of her age, and what was seen as the right thing to do. I grew up for 31 years not know where I came from or who I really was. Do I deserve a sorry, or a freebie payout? Nope, I just get on with my life and make the best of it. It’s about time we as a nation look towards a future, and let the past go. mark of Western Sydney 9:20am Comment 47 of 424

Yet more populist drivel from Krudd. I almost fell off my chair laughing when I heard him say there will be no compensation. This should be the defining moment of his career in displaying his utter incompetence, ignorance and arrogance. Anyone believing that there will be no compensation is deluding themselves, and the lawyers are salivating at the prospect of class actions and suits. Maybe this is Krudds way of stimulating the economy. Sorry to you diehards, but Kevin07 has done nothing to impress, just espouse more hot air and rhetoric by repackaging already existing policy and claiming as his own. Now lets all see the applications before the high court after Mc Sorry day and then we can join the chorus "Kevin07, Recession08". Blampa of Springfield 9:21am Comment 48 of 424

No money shold be given. There should also be an acknowledgement that many kids were saved from abuse and were given better lives. Perhaps the kids taken from Barandos homes in the UK could be concidered. stuart h of Perth 9:21am Comment 49 of 424

He also said individual Australians have the right to oppose the move, saying the apology was not coming from the non-indigenous citizens. "We’ll be making it clear that we’ll be speaking in the government’s name," he said. I was always under the impression that the government was representitive of the people and whenever they spoke on an issue it was is in the name of the people who elected them to oiffice. Or am I wrong about that. Lee Dq of Brisbane 9:23am Comment 50 of 424

I personally don’t see how saying the word ’sorry’ is going to help the situation, as it will just perpetuate the victim mentality that is so rife amongst the aboriginal community. It takes personal accountability to remedy the situation, and at present aboriginal leaders appear to be doing little more than grand-standing. Ben 9:25am Comment 51 of 424

Good, since when does sorry come with a price tag. J-man of Sydney 9:26am Comment 52 of 424

*Yawn* no matter how many apologies or how much money, lawyers will ensure that aboriginals are never happy. I guess, other than making lawyers rich, it gives lefties something to be angry about… Jeff_Nassif 9:26am Comment 53 of 424

John of Perth has got it right. Lawyers across Australia must be wetting themselves with anticipation. If they get their hands on this issue and given they are a ‘law unto themselves’ the old ‘16th part there of’ will be applied and Australian generations to come will be footing the bill. Saying sorry to the Aboriginals will be one thing, if the lawyers have their way Rudd will be giving a whole new meaning to the word when he has to say SORRY (for the lost billions), to the rest of Australia. Peter of Corinella 9:26am Comment 54 of 424

I can just see SLATER and GORDON setting up travelling legal shows out into the various parts of Australia seeking complainants, KRUDD ever the king of "do gooders" will rue the day he says this….surely the courts will decide the compensation, he can say what he likes about NO funds, but he wont have a say in it….You watch carefullly….int he next breath he will be saying, we have no funds, but let the courts decide, they wont have a leg to stand on….You fool KRUDD Ian of Perth 9:27am Comment 55 of 424

i fail to see how this government admitting to the wrongs of a previous government can open any floodgates. will be interesting to see how many people do try and sue. i wonder if it will be the same people who were jumping up and down about an apology - will be interesting to see if they wanted cash over an apology. john doe 9:28am Comment 56 of 424

Craig, By apologising you are implying that not only are you responsible for the wrong, but that you knew that what you did was wrong. This is the reason that you never get out of your car when you have had an accident, and say sorry. annoyed 9:28am Comment 57 of 424

Don’t worry about the cash. once the apology has been made the clever lawyers will be in there like flint and together with the judges massive amounts of cash will be paid over by taxpayers. by the way the government should set up a website so that those who don’t want to apologise can register their names. Anton 9:29am Comment 58 of 424

If there is any payouts through the court system resulting from the apology given by KRudd, an apology given on my behalf without my consent, I believe I should be entitled to sue KRudd personally for the loss of my tax dollars. Class action anyone?  PJL of Toowoomba 9:30am Comment 59 of 424

Is this the government Australia has voted for? All spin and no substance…an apology but no compensation! How does that work PM Rudd? You merely say symbolic words with no substances behind them. If you are sorry, then mean it¿please grow some back bone and pay the aboriginal community compensation. Otherwise, don¿t say a meaningless apology. JBG of Sydney 9:30am Comment 60 of 424

The underlying issue still is why the need to say sorry for actions that todays government took no part in. If my grandfather stole a loaf of bread from a baker 40 years ago should i be made to apologise for his actions? Ryan of Prahran 9:31am Comment 61 of 424

So many people had a go at John Howard for not apologizing … just a simple word. Now people see that it was much more than a simple word. They begin to see the hypocrisy, the inability of many aboriginals to stand on their own two feet,Rudd’s flim flam. There are many in the community wronged but they just get on with it. Blogs were full of jibes against John Howard. There is a big difference between opinion and fact and it is about time people realised it. Popular opinion is not fact. Popular opinion and ridicule of John Howard’s position before the election was junk not fact. paul 9:32am Comment 62 of 424

This compensation claim is a joke as well as having to say sorry for the stollen generation it will grow into being "sorry" for populating Australia, I might as well sue France (Normands) for conquoring my Saxon ancestors!. How about Indigenous people actually CONTRIBUTE to society not just leach from it. Move on!!! of Australia 9:33am Comment 63 of 424

I can see that we have a lot of small minded people in this chat room, these are real people entitled to justice, I aplaued the prime minister for his leadership on this issue. Need not remind you that political office’s are full opf solicitors and advisers to Mr Rudd who would know the ramifications of this descion. Your all still happy to hide behind the lies of Mr Howards government that said an apology would lead to massive compensation. Im sure you all celebrated the australia day long weekend with your families yesterday, a liberty most native australians aren’t able to do because of this sad part of our history. God help us if our thriving economy and massive budget surplus became lost to an entitled generation. Sam of Gold Coast 9:33am Comment 64 of 424

An apology is accepting liability for damage/injury/negligence etc. I wasn’t here at the time nor was my family. What do I have to apologise for? I treat everyone equally and have thus far accepted that some of my tax will go towards supporting disadvantaged minorities, including indigenous Australians. Enough is enough however. Should I also apologise for the current situation in Kenya? jude 9:33am Comment 65 of 424

If somebody has a legitimate case than they should have the right to sue just like every other member of society. I think if that happened to you or your family you would feel differently Hebs of Brisbane 9:34am Comment 66 of 424

Did somebody say Australians are no racists ? Rene Vetterli of Wellington Point 9:36am Comment 67 of 424

There already is a compensation fund - Centrelink. CB 9:37am Comment 68 of 424

Butcher of Brisbane. The Government is elected by the people to represent the people!!!!! jo 9:37am Comment 69 of 424

I really don’t care if we say sorry or not. I feel for the children who were taken from their families and understand they probably were trapped between two differant cultures and that probably did have an impact on their lives and their children. However paying them money isn’t going to make that better. As for the compo claims well i believe they have received enough "compo" with the government benefits available to them that the average "white" person isn’t entitled too. How about only 3% interest on the life of your home loan?? I’d be so grateful if something like that was offered to me. Why do they still want more??? Because we keep giving it. Fed Up 9:37am Comment 70 of 424

Bring back Howard - pleeeeeeease !! kp of Krudd is a Dudd 9:39am Comment 71 of 424

rathbone of Alice Springs -spot on!!! You’re pretty bang on the money there. mw of sydney 9:41am Comment 72 of 424

Why would you apologise for something you didn’t do??? And what would you say??? Sorry for saving you from a lifetime of alchoholism; sorry for saving you from a lifetime of abuse; sorry for giving you the chance of gaining an education; sorry for giving you the chance to live long enough to hear this apology…After it is all said and done and the compo has been paid, i’m sure Mr Rudd will be sorry, sorry he ever opened his mouth. Doug of NSW 9:41am Comment 73 of 424

By attempting to ‘bridge the gap’ between indigenous and non-indigenous Australia’s via the the whole ‘Sorry’ sage, I think in the end it will only server to further segregate us….especially if financial compensation is sought via the courts. Quite ironic really… Miles of Adelaide 9:43am Comment 74 of 424

Of course they shouldn’t get more money. I do think a formal apology is a nice gesture on behalf of a few of our "ancestors", however it was a very different time/era and many children have been removed from impoverished families and unfit parents in the past, not just Aboriginal families. The Aboriginal people are already getting plenty of money in many various forms and are segregated enough from the rest of the community without needing another fund to make them ¿special¿. Maybe they should say thank you? Be thankful the British colonized Australia and not the French, as they would have been totally wiped out. They don’t own ¿our¿ country, they are natives who were fortunate their tribal lifestyles were still operating for so long, and if they were, they wouldn’t live past 30. Sure, if the Government really wanted to they could say sorry for lots of things. Governments and people do make mistakes and generally learn from it and this type of Christian rubbish hasn’t happened since. Mind you the ’stolen generation’ are the most educated and have the potential to contribute the most to the wider community and are the best advocates for the Aboriginal people because of it. Were they really that hard done by?  Jonathan of SA 9:43am Comment 75 of 424

Sorry but the Rudd Government is already one ducking and shifting and bringing into the media, through the spin doctors anything that avoids the real issues, Lets get all those promises out there, The Sorry will be a windfall for the legal faternity , The queston should be "SORRY FOR WHAT" is he going to spell out everything he is sorry for, What about those children who are lot better off, even though we know there would be pain for sum the alternative may have been worse. Let go on with the Government business and get rid of those diversion. Stephen of Bowral 9:44am Comment 76 of 424

I don’t think any of us would deny the need for financial aid to the indigenous population. What seems to irk us all though is the greedy adminstrators and public sevants who keep themselves in nice well paid jobs whilst the very people they are there to assist live in apalling conditions. My maths might be wrong but based on most recent census figures of Aboriginal population and last years federal government budget allocation it works out at something like $7,000 for every man, woman and child. Hardly enough for us to be getting on our high horse, beating our chests and saying we’ve given too much already. Karl of Perth 9:44am Comment 77 of 424

Enough money has been given to these ‘people’. It has clearly yielded no return.  David of Bankstown 9:45am Comment 78 of 424

Before saying sorry, the government needs to draft up an agreement which is legally binding to the aboriginal community: if they want to hear, "Sorry" then they have to relinquish their right to bring law suits to court individually over being part of the stolen generation. Oh, what was that? They aren’t willing to do so - well then, a formal apology won’t be coming. If they’re true to their word about just wanting an apology, then this kind of agreement shouldn’t batter an eyelid. Otherwise, if they do want compensation, this should be worked out up front instead of being postponed until after the apology. I think Kevin is quite naive not to expect there to be some kind of monetary amount attached to a formal apology - get this amount locked in place early and then lets be done with it: don’t bog down the court system uneccesarrily. Oh, but if there’s a monetary amount, he loses the white vote. Sucks to be Mr Rudd right about now - it’s a loss either way. David of Canberra 9:45am Comment 79 of 424

We must never forget the wrongs of the past as they provide us with the lessons we need to improve our future. That said, I do not understand what the benefit is of current generations saying sorry for the actions of past generations. We do not require that of the current generations from Germany and Japan for the sins of their grandfathers. Why do we require it of this generation of Australians. The African American is a classic example of how a culture has moved on from the past and become part of the solution. The very fact that the next US President may be black is telling. I am sorry that the aborignal people are struggling to improve their way of life. But if they and their leaders are not part of the solution, I am NOT sorry that they can’t. A view from the centre of Adelaide 9:46am Comment 80 of 424

For those wanting our Gov’t to pay compensation answer the following 2 qu’s: Why is it fair that us the tax payers of today pay for a wrong doing of governments of 40+ years ago. Are you pre[ared to spend millions on compensation that could be better used improving health, education and policing for ALL Australians Rodger Brook of Brisbane 9:47am Comment 81 of 424

"(Then) we can get on with the business of closing the gap in terms of life expectancy, education levels and health levels between indigenous and non-indigenous communities." OK call me cynical, but what the hell has happened with the billions of dollars of tax payers money already pumped into the bottomless pit? It just proves that the indiginous population are incapable of looking after themselves.  Money Pitt of Melbourne 9:47am Comment 82 of 424

Also as part of the "sorry" statement include the removing of "are you a torres straite islander or indiginous person" which has been on all those government forms and high school papers? I’ve always thought why do we need to have that section of the form. They should be treated like every other citizen of australia! Im with you Rodo (comment 19) Bring on the forgiveness statement! Peter of Perth 9:47am Comment 83 of 424

I for one hope there is a court case, hope there is compensation. This way, the government will have to get the plaitiffs or whatever aboriginal corporation is setup to fight this the money, say 10billion dollars. Then the governement can scrap Abstudy and all aborginal health and welfare payment, and start treating all australian equally. and the people responsible for the say 10billion dollars are in charge of distributing healthcare and closing the gap. This will be cheaper for all australians in the long wrong. Chris of Mid North Coast 9:47am Comment 84 of 424

What a shock. This article is published, and as usual, the same mob of Redneck NIMBYs run in, scared that their "opinion" (such as it is) will not be heard. The racist comments in this thread are already abundant yet we’re only 55 comments into it. An entire day of reading this Nationalist "we’re so much better than the original inhabitants" tripe? No thanks. Celeste of Melbourne 9:47am Comment 85 of 424

Well the next "Apology" Kev makes will be the one to the Australian people when he apologises for the legal mess he got this government into. This PM is a boy doing a man’s job - he’s just not up to it! Keith of Sydney 9:48am Comment 86 of 424

This is the outcome that nearly all peoples of australia wished for. Well done Mr Rudd, now just make sure the courts don’t change there minds and order the tax payers to pay billions to these people. Martin of Perth 9:49am Comment 87 of 424

Hey you voted him in.. what do you expect? I told you so.. 9:50am Comment 88 of 424

I can’t believe the flagrant racism and "them" and "us" attitude of most of these comments. Your generalisation and ignorant ranting is why the rest of the world sees Australians as a bunch of bigotted fools. Clearly Rudd needs to put money into education so our children won’t be so un-enlightened. Alexandra 9:50am Comment 89 of 424

How many Aboriginal people have money, big houses and swimming pools that you know?? They are battling to find a little bit of land to live on. Millions wouldnt help the situation because freedom to move on natural land is the biggest asset and the thing they have lost. The child abuse ting is blown way out of proportion - lack of hygiene and dirty toilet seats also contibute to stds although it does occur but millions wont help the people in need - it will only help those who are supposed to helping the people in need. Sally of Perth 9:50am Comment 90 of 424

This argument has been around the block 1000 times already and the answer is still clear. NO apology is warranted and certainly NO money is warranted. This is all about the indigenous community looking for more hand-outs. Nothing more, nothing less.  Ross of Brisbane 9:50am Comment 91 of 424

Sorry - the cynic in me is saying that this is put in place right about the time that the interest rates go up. This sounds of spinning to keep the punters away from a bigger issue. FP of Hobart 9:51am Comment 92 of 424

I think this is the best way to go - I mean - as far as compensation goes - if you are indigenous you are entitled to some sort of government assistance, ie Abstudy etc… So that should eb compensation in itself. Apologising wont do anything. Its just getting greedy. Im sure Australia has said sorry many times before. Alot of Aboriginal communitites ie: in outback oz are plagued with crime… And through time I think the government has given enough benefits to aboriginals.. so no, there shouldn’t be any compo. Jessica of Caringbah 9:52am Comment 93 of 424

To express ‘regret’ or ‘remorse’ for unfair deeds in the past acknowledges the wrong was done, without offloading responsibility onto the current government. Why does Kevin Rudd think John Howard only expressed ‘regret’, despite the constant flaming from the press and public that it earned him? Why does he think that the USA expresses ‘regret’ for slavery, yet no state (nor the US government, for that matter) has said they are ’sorry’? While the writer of Comment 11 is indeed correct, I don’t think that the government accepting responsibility for an act and not paying compensation is going to achieve anything with respect to the ties with the Indiginous community (although Sorry might pacify the extreme left wingers). The fact that - despite your very true facts about parliamentary privellege - there are still people already deciding to sue, indicates in what light some people view the apology. Sarah Gardiner 9:52am Comment 94 of 424

To anyone who things the Stolen Generation was a bad thing then just look at the current situation up north Babies are being raped, kids are sniffing petrol and parents are alchoholics Millions are being spent on intervention - In another 20 years will there be compensation paid to all the aboriginals who are now being taken away from their parents or being told their not allowed to get drunk and rape their children ? The stolen generation were taken away from their parents because their parents couldnt look after them and raise them as human beings 20 years later, kids are taken away from their parents because their parents couldnt look after them and raise them as human beings I’ll say Sorry to the aboriginals if they’ll say Thank You for the billions of tax dollars they have already recieved Matt of perth 9:53am Comment 95 of 424

at least kevin rudd is prepared to say sorry where john howard wasn’t prepared to do so. wendy of geelong 9:53am Comment 96 of 424

Well said, Craig (Comment 12). Issuing an apology or saying you’re sorry should never be about the hand in the pocket. I don’t know about anyone else, but if someone ‘hurt’ me and then sincerely apologised, I would accept it and feel better knowing they were genuinely contrite. Can anyone tell me how money suddenly makes you ‘forget’ the sins of the past or believe that someone is more remorseful over their actions? KylieJ 9:53am Comment 97 of 424

""We’ll be making it clear that we’ll be speaking in the government’s name," he said. "The judgment I have made is ……." Pretty much says it all doesn’t it? Nan 9:54am Comment 98 of 424

Worst case an apology will cost a billion dollars - in the whole scheme of things it’s chicken feed. Meanwhile the indigenous population have everything they have asked for. An apology and compo. Ergo no more excuses. If they fail to work with the Government towards a substantial improvement in their outcomes then screw ‘em. The Government is showing it has a willingness to help aboriginals improve their standard of living. This apology and possible compo will shift the onus on to them. No more excuses from either side. Work towards a solution or shut up. Simple. Cowboy of Greensborough 9:54am Comment 99 of 424

Thank goodness for that. Tax payers paying billions of dollars for the actions of others 200 years ago is absurd. We already have established advantages in education and the job market. They have the support to make a go of it. It should be obvious by now that cash is not going to help them or their ancestors. Matt of Melbourne 9:54am Comment 100 of 424

Reading a lot of the comments here, people mention the need to fund health care and eduction for the aboriginal communities. This is not done with handing them money. Why should the government hand the community MY money. I work hard to fund the government, and personally would rather see the money come back to something that is going to help me. Instead of giving them money, foot the bill for their education. If an aboriginal child goes to school, the goverment pay for it, providing the child goes. Dont just hand them money, because we all know it will be wasted.  Adrian Stoker of Mildura 9:54am Comment 101 of 424

Does this mean that any child removed from their family by the various DOCS (Departments of Community Services) type agencies also has a claim for an apology? And as for the compensation claims, this was always what was going to happen - how could anyone NOT see that coming? Matthew Burgan of Sydney 9:55am Comment 102 of 424

Tpday’s government should STILL be removing aboriginal children from their families as far as those that are being abused/raped at the Cape, NT!! ‘Steal’ that poor, defenceless generation and place them with loving families that will give them a better chance in life!! mw of sydney 9:55am Comment 103 of 424

Lawyers 1- Aboriginies 0. Papa Doc 9:55am Comment 104 of 424

I am EMBARRASSED to be Australian listening to all these comments opposing an Austalian government apology to the Stolen Generation of Aborigines adn Torres Strait Islanders. It’s a huge symbolic gesture for the Government taking responsibility for admitting to the wrongs of the past, so that we can ALL move on as a nation and help them to rebuild their parenting practises and culture. So there will be no financial compensation but I agree with Jessica of Melb cbd "I just think it would be alot better spent providing further education and medical attention in rural areas instead of individual handouts here and there". I wonder how many of you have actually known someone from the stolen generation or a family deeply affected by it? I very much doubt it as you can’t seem to see past YOURSELF and how it will affect YOU finaancially. C’mon Australia, I thought we were all about supporting the underdog! Darwin resident of Darwin 9:55am Comment 105 of 424

I agree with no compensation. If anything, money should be arranged in the budget to put funding into hospitals, schools etc in remote areas. We cannot afford to be spending such large amounts on compensation with the state our economy is in, nor should we have to pay. What’s done is done and we all need to move on and make the most of what we have. I understand why John Howard didn’t say it, not that he probably didn’t want to, but the can of worms it would open. Katherine of Melb 9:56am Comment 106 of 424

When John Howard expressed regret rather than say sorry on behalf of ME and other Australians, there was a reason. Kevin Rudd just got on the "yes we will do whatever you want" bandwagon to get into power. This is going to be a minefield of litigation and Im so glad that I can say, Dont blame me, Never voted for Rudd jules 9:57am Comment 107 of 424

jude, i’m really don’t think saying sorry is an admission of liability or fault at all. if you attend someone’s funeral and say to the family "i’m sorry" i don’t think it implies fault for the death at all. in that case and this one of the government’s "sorry", it is more an acknowledgement of the loss and hurt suffered, and a demonstration of sympathy. i think it’s the right thing to do. wen of perth 9:57am Comment 108 of 424

Just reading how disgustingly financially driven and selfish all you bloggers are is amusing me..and how difficult it is for you all to comprehend a simple news article..I quote, "He also said individual Australians have the right to oppose the move, saying the apology was not coming from the non-indigenous citizens. "We’ll be making it clear that we’ll be speaking in the government’s name," he said. " Learn to read and understand, than jump up and down causing a hu-ha over nothing. A lot more has been stolen than people’s lives..it’s a dark and sorry history of Australia that alot us ignore on purpose..and it’s really obvious through these blog comments. IW of Brisbane 9:58am Comment 109 of 424

The article clearly states that this apology is on behalf of the Australian government, not the individual citizens, so all you rednecks complaining that you don’t want to say sorry for something you didn’t do need to take a step back and actually learn to read before you get all riled up over nothing. Annika 9:58am Comment 110 of 424

To Sam of Gold Coast - Comment 64 - It’s no good Sam. Give it up. I had a look at my CV and it clearly says I m holier than thou. Bob of Indooroopilly 9:58am Comment 111 of 424

‘Substance equals money’???? Please. If you honestly think money is going to fix everything then you are more of a fool than the person saying ’sorry’ for something they didn’t do. Look at what they do with the handouts they receive now. They need to be educated, not paid out. Say NO to compo of Australia 9:59am Comment 112 of 424

This is simply a move by the Rudd Government to set the agenda for the coming parliament sitting and beyond. It is a populist move by the king of public relations to have the real issues facing the nation put behind the eight ball. To have a soft approach. Look at how much media attention this has already. Meanwhile children are still being abused. That is the real issue that needs addressing. That is the issue that all Australians including the Aborignal people need to be ashamed of. Sorry can wait until this is addressed. It was workchoices that got the Libs out. Rudd did not win the last election, stubborn Howard’s arrogant stance on workchoices is what lost the election. So thanks for that Howard, thanks for giving us Rudd. (sarcasm) timbo of Canberra 9:59am Comment 113 of 424

Hands up if you white and well off? Hands up if you know any aboriginal people? Thought so. Stu of Alice Springs 10:01am Comment 114 of 424

It’s very easy to understand. The Australian Government (on behalf of the people) was responsible for creating ‘the stolen generation’, and so The Australian Government (on behalf of the people) should apologize. The question of compensation is not a simple one. As a Melbournian, I simply don’t come into contact with indigenous people on a day-to-day basis, so I don’t have any ‘the Government should do this’ type advice; however it seems fair and reasonable that compensation in the form of money spent to equalize the standard of living of the broader indiginous community would be a lot faster, simpler and more effective than each individual needing to mount their own legal case and subsequently being awarded some insane sum of money as a result. Craig 10:02am Comment 115 of 424

Time for another stolen generation in my opinion; look at the way some of them treat their children in NT and Northern Queensland. Child protection would be on the scene immediately if it were a caucasian family and the parents thrown behind bars. Jeremy of Brisbane 10:05am Comment 116 of 424

Of 48 comments, 8 show a depth of understanding of what it is to be a compassionate human being. These are comments 4, 6,11,12,18,29,38 and 44. The rest of you appear to be living lives whose only meaning can be measured in dollars. You really ought to be pitied. Hopefully a future generation will be able to apologise to your children for the damage done to you. There is more to life than money. If you NEED more than Centrelink to survive, look to yourself and your way of life that requires an attitude of greed rather than of satisfying need. If you really think that greed is good why do you knock another person (who happens to be an Original) wanting to measure up to your standards? Are you saying, "it is okay for me to be greedy and complain about paying taxes, but not anyone else, particularly if they happen to be black?" If you are paying taxes it means you are earning an income, living in a place where you want to be among people you want to be with - otherwise you would not be there. Payment as compensation for the suffering of being reviled by 40 of 48 comments is hardly a freebie. Is this proportion is indicative of the nation as a whole?  Isabel Storey of Norseman 10:05am Comment 117 of 424

Making an apology is just that, no iffs, buts or excuses. Under the umbrella of a white, Christian society the government of this rich country tried to obliterate and inseminate the aboriginal race and culture (under the White Australia Policy). We can¿t now say well all these things happened and not expect any consequences. I personally believe each of the stolen generation should receive at least $100,000 on top of any remuneration or compensations offered to the aboriginal race. This would do away with any legal monies spent by either party. Paul of Salisbury East 10:08am Comment 118 of 424

This decision by the Krudd Govt is only a peak of things to come and it will cost each and every tax payer. I find it comical reading these comments but sadly I too will be paying for it. I can see the ocean of leeches swelling and an army of lawyers in for the kill. The final result for indigenious folk with be even more marginalisation resulting in more substance abuse. Looking into my crystal ball I say give it 3 years and the masses will be chanting for Howard to return to power. Danny of SA 10:10am Comment 119 of 424

You should only ever be sorry if you have done something wrong. I have not done anything wrong so I will not apologise. However, I am embarrassed and ashamed of my forebares and their treatment of indigenous Australians. I hope all Indigenous Aussies reject Rudds apology and say "We are our own people and do not need your words to verify our heritage. We stand proud, and your apology is below us" MIKE K of wollongong 10:10am Comment 120 of 424

Which side is going to say sorry for the lost generation? In my years in the territory (centre) I saw things that could upset me (the rapes of 8 year old girls or the petrol sniffing of 7+ year old boys) and there was much more. I know if I was black or white I would still take those children out of the enviroment so they stood a chance. SORRY ( I said it ) but I forget to mention that it was 25 years ago and nothing Bloody changes with all the MONEY. CATCH 22. Greg Birks of Sweden 10:10am Comment 121 of 424

It seems somewhat ironic that the major beneficiaries of an undertaking to improve the education/life expectancy/health, etc. of indigenous Australians will be the aborigines who were not part of the "stolen generation." Will the abused Aboriginal children suffering in communities today have grounds to seek compensation in the future as they were not removed from abusive homes? Has the ending of the assimilation policies of the 50’s and 60’s and the encouragement for indigenous aborigines to enforce tribal practices diminished the lives and future of children?  Baldrick 10:10am Comment 122 of 424

What about we set up a fund into which those who want to can contribute as with the tsunami appeal and leave the rest of us to just get on with our lives? robh 10:11am Comment 123 of 424

Socially divisive politics from Rudd. He should be ashamed of himself for capitalising on this for this own political short term gain. Just like the last bloke. Maybe he should go back to holidaying with movie stars. Both the news and the PM seem to find that more important. Lanmac of QLD 10:11am Comment 124 of 424

Matthew Burgan from Sydney - you ignorant fool. Have you been into the communities to see the conditions that some children are taken from by DOCS, young people bashed with broken bones with parents too drunk and don’t provide rehabilitation. Mr Rudd can’t make everyone happy, and sadly some pathetic fools still complain. Hopefully that’s the minority. jodie yorgey of melbourne 10:11am Comment 125 of 424

There is a big difference between saying sorry because you were perpetrator of a crime and saying sorry because you feel regret for a situation. When someone tells you their grandmother died you normally say something like "I am so sorry". This doesn’t mean you killed her, it means you have empathy for the person whose grandmother had died. So many people on this forum miss this point. No, maybe you didn’t have anything to do with the invasion by the first fleet or the stolen generation but you can still feel regret and compassion for the displaced and abused people these situations created. If you don’t feel anything for a race of people that have short brutal lives in some of the most appalling conditions anywhere in the world then maybe you should have a long hard look at yourself. Otto of Brisbane 10:12am Comment 126 of 424

$$$$ i have been in some of bush town ships the laywers have already been there and told them there is houndreds of thousands 4 all of them when it all starts ring us.some showed there cards .I have a ? when they say the r 1/16th or 1/32 aboriginal that leaves over 93% some other at 1/16th and over 96% at 1/32th if u get the point. nothing can change when u live in a town that has no jobs no real busness. they need the payments evey fortnight to get by. how come the pic,s don’t come from some of these towns every fortnight of the fights and damage. some of the closest friends of mine are 1/16 aboriginal and i love them to death .they think they were lucky to live on the coast not in the out back ,they all work . al matto of coffs 10:12am Comment 127 of 424

Im not sorry, i havent done anything wrong and neither have my parents. Mr Rudd make sure you leave my name out of your apology. Not Me of Perth 10:13am Comment 128 of 424

Let’s be perfectly clear on this - when a ‘government’ apologises (or does anything for that matter), it does so on behalf of the people it represents. This is a fundamental of democracy. For Rudd to pretend otherwise is thoroughly mischevious. Apologies for protecting children in the past is both unwise and unnecessary - what is needed to put things right is effort and leadership from both white and black Australia. Andy of Toowoomba 10:14am Comment 129 of 424

Those not wanting to say sorry to our indigenous Australian’s are the same people who believe that to be a true Australian you must be of Anglo Saxon decent. This is pure and simple racism at it most grotesque. Indigenous Australian’s are the truest Australians here. The rest of us, regardless of where we came from are migrants. The government isn’t saying sorry on behalf of racist redneck bogan’s, it’s saying sorry on behalf of all Australian’s a growing number of which are not of Anglo Saxon origin and who do not share your ignorant racist oppinions. Jimmy of Sydney 10:14am Comment 130 of 424

What about the stolen children of the UK who were sent to Australia. and taken away from parents? Did they demand an apoligy from the British government and compensation.? This is about an apology for being born white, and we are going to pay for our skin colour forever until we tell these so called indigious people that throughout history people and countries have been conquered and people suffered in wars and invasions. Even us white fellas Its happened since the begining of time and its been this way in every country in the world. The Christians took the Muslim lands in Europe, The Americans took the Red Indians land, The Kiwi’s took the Maori land, the Romans took the English land and so on and so on. Sick and Tired of WA 10:15am Comment 131 of 424

All of us have an opinion. I have read all comments & keep going back to comment…..24…..How true is this? Lets all be happy & look after each other. Wouldn’t it be a horrible would if we didn’t forgive……… AJ ROSS 10:17am Comment 132 of 424

Rudd makes it "clear" that he will be speaking in the "Governments " name and not on behalf of individual Australian’s. Isn’t the government a representation of the people that elect them to do just that, represent? Why has this issue not gone to vote? Greg of Gold Coast 10:17am Comment 133 of 424

To Annika 9:58am today Comment 108 of 111. Last time I looked, the Australian Government was elected by the people to speak on behalf of the people…..not just one segment or faction. Our local MP’s are our representatives and like it or not, Kevin Rudd leads the Australian government which speaks on behalf of all Australians. I find it insulting that our Prime Minister believes he and his government do not represent all Australians and have said as much by trying to get people to believe the Government has the ability to pick and choose who it speaks for when our PM stands up in parliment and offers an appology. Don’t call me a redneck or accuse me of not reading the article when you cannot fathom this one simple fact. Allan of Gold Coast 10:17am Comment 134 of 424

I’m so sick of hearing about this appology/sorry nonsense. At least this PM has ruled out compensation, that’s the only decent decision he’s made. Aboriginals should be saying thankyou to non aboriginal Australians for giving them a decent life. Most ’stolen generation’ have made a healthy happy lives for themselves. It’s only a small minority that are whinging away, and trying to get money out of the government. Just take a look at what happened to that poor aboriginal boy that was raped not so long ago, or the little aboriginal girl last year. If you ask me those children need to be taken care of again, it would almost be appropriate to have full investigation, intervention and if need be, removal of children for their protection. Myk of Townsville 10:17am Comment 135 of 424

What a divisive little man this guy is. Political opportunist- yes. Leader- no way.  Recession08 10:17am Comment 136 of 424

wen of perth, death is unavoidable and comes to us all. It is natural order. Removing children from families is not. And Rudd is not apologising on our behalf so you will obviously be disappointed! He should have done this quietly and sincerely to those who need the apology. Also Annika it is not "redneck" to expect the government that you voted for to represent you. jude 10:19am Comment 137 of 424

Some time ago I reluctantly drove through Redfern and was aghast at what I observed with some indigenous fellows. I immediately went home and penned a strongly worded letter to my local member suggesting a ban on allowing these people to come into our suburb as all sorts of abhorrent things may occur if they did. My local member would not support my protest and because of the sensitivity of the issue he seemed to curtail to their potential presence. All I can say is I am thankful my Audi has central locking in case I ever have to take that trip again. Kevin of Double Bay 10:20am Comment 138 of 424

I would like to hear from Aboriginal members of the stolen generation. Let them tell us them selves how hard life has been for them. So far I have read comments from maybe 3 and all were positive towards their lives. The ones making all the fuss are not stolen generation people but klingons hoping to make a fast buck by riding their coat tails. Peter of Adelaide 10:20am Comment 139 of 424

a good move I say, I can however see those amoral lawyers linning up now to get their grubby mitts on as much moola as possible. Big Kev 10:21am Comment 140 of 424

It’s a perpetuated myth that Indigenous Australia is awash with cash… ‘What more do they want’ you ask? How about the same standards of health care, housing, education and basic infrastructure that the rest of this ‘lucky country’ enjoys? someone once said, ‘A nation can be best judged by the way it treats its weakest citizens.’ For those who haven’t (and I’m guessing it’s about 99.9 percent of Australians) seen an Aboriginal community in person… I can tell you we are doing a sh*thouse job. The life expectancy of people in Calcutta, India is greater than some of our own citizens. And you lot are worried about your hip-pockets - makes me physically sick. CJ of Canberra 10:21am Comment 141 of 424

An apology will do nothing to improve the lives of the aboriginal people. Howard’s intervention was a step in the right direction to help protect the children in aboriginal communities. Rudd is clearly out of his depth as PM when it comes to the real issues that concern the vast majority of Australians - interest rates, fuel and grocery pricing.  Bob of QLD 10:22am Comment 142 of 424

We can be sorry it happend without accepting responsibility which I am happy to do. Of course the early settlers to this country did the wrong things. The introduction of whitemans diseases, Alcohol, Religion to name a few. Were all wrong and I am sorry this happend. I am sorry such a great culture has been watered down by introducing whitemans values but. But I did not do this so I will not accept personal responsibility. White man needs to back away gracefully and leave the true Aboriginals to thier lives.  Peter of Adelaide 10:22am Comment 143 of 424

The government is promissing 18 billion surplus this year. Why don’t we give it all as a one off compensation to the stolen generation and their families. That would be fair and just, and in line with the Labor Government policy of placating every single problem with money. Pawel Kociadupka of Carramar 10:22am Comment 144 of 424

To everyone who is against this; Mr Rudd will appologise to us, which is long over due. As for the compensation, we will get it, one way or another! This country and you people owe us, you really do.. Elle of Palm Island 10:22am Comment 145 of 424

Seriously, why is this even a topic of discussion these days? I’ve got a hot tip for everyone here, Australian, Aboriginal, whatever: Get over it. Move on. You can sit there with your hand out all day crying "Oh my god, decades ago you did something offensive, please give me compensation", or you can get off your arse and just push through it, like most people would. I have a lot of respect for the Aboriginal community. Their art and their culture I find fascinating. Unfortunately, in Hobart, there’s not much of the original culture left. It’s all red-headed kids with paler skin than mine telling me they’re 400th generation Aboriginal and want something from the Government. Boohoo. Aaron M of Hobart 10:23am Comment 146 of 424

some people will never be happy until white australia drags shame and guilt around with them for what happened in the past. the past is useful if you have an axe to grind, every race has been screwed up at some time in history or another, so there’s always a story about X people who were hard done by Y people and there are wrongs that must be righted. i wonder if the aborigines have any opinion on the people they killed and displaced when they moved here? (genetically there have been 3 major migrations into australia, google National Geographic Genographic Project). people who constantly harp on about the past also tend not to offer any real solutions for the future, that speaks volumes for their character and real intentions. people need to build bridges and get over it or we’ll be wallowing in dark memories forever. jason 10:23am Comment 147 of 424

I’m not opposed to saying "Sorry" but I think it’s a complete waste of time and effort, as it’s not going to do a thing! It will reinforce the victim mentality for another 100 years. It’s a symbolic gesture with as much substance as a bubble. Nick of Sydney 10:24am Comment 148 of 424

Gotta laugh @ those that say education is the answer to everything. Youth still have more accidents, they smoke more etc etc. And this by the most informed & educated in history. Wonder how much value the indigenous will give to a SORRY, without compensation? Glenn of Melb 10:25am Comment 149 of 424

Timbo of Canberra - Yes.. it is a populist move. But it’s a step in the right direction which the howard government was too afraid of taking because it’s easier to ignore the issues and sweep them under the carpet. The apology might not mean a lot to non-Indigenous Australians because on the surface what real, significant impact is it going to make? You are right. Children still are being abused whether an apology is made or not. However the first step in recognising that their is a problem and acknowledging that these problems wouldn’t have existed without non-Indigenous intervention is the key in establishing sincere reconcilation. I agree that there shouldn’t be a compensation fund - however I believe real investment should be made in infrastructure - such as health, education, jobs, drug and alcohol rehabilitation and other symbolic gestures such as cultural appreciation in mainsteam Australia (i.e. NZ example) Kimberley of Brisbane 10:29am Comment 150 of 424

Matt of Melbourne - 99 - You are an idiot. The things the aborigines want an apology for happened in many of OUR lifetimes. The White Australia Policy was only resigned to history in 1973. Child Removal was a cornerstone of that policy, and children were still being assimilated by force into the mid 70’s. The atrocities carried out on the indigenous population happened recently. And thier continuing disgraceful state of affairs is heavily dependent on the way White Australia has treated them. Saying sorry is the least we can do to actually showing we give a hoot and want to assist them out of their predicament (Note I said assist). Throwing bucket loads of "benefits" at them isn’t helping and targeted assistance and a political will is what will help. Cowboy of Greensborough 10:29am Comment 151 of 424

Isabel Storey of Norseman said "If you are paying taxes it means you are earning an income, living in a place where you want to be among people you want to be with - otherwise you would not be there." Making a few assumptions aren’t you?? if this is what you think equates to happiness then you are as materialistic as those posters you attack. jo 10:29am Comment 152 of 424

a wrong has been done - we need to make it right. Face it and admit it and make an apology then we can move on. Compensation - dollars - would not achieve anything. Restitution to the stolen generation ought to be through connecting families and the provision of councelling services so the stolen generation can reclaim their identity, their family and their lives Graham G of Sydney 10:29am Comment 153 of 424

Compensation or no compensation is it really likely that this apology will result in our outback indigenous friends finally joining us in 21st century society? I think not. Shut down the communities, equalize benefits for black and white and enforce schooling to year 10. Pandering lefty morons you had your chance for 20 years and look at the damage you’ve caused, now time for some tough love. Peter 10:29am Comment 154 of 424

Thank God for that! Apologising is one thing… but I will never support compensation being paid! If this step by KEVIN-07 leads to compensation payments being won, he’s going to have a lot of explaining to do. I hope he’s done his research! Natalie of Sydney CBD 10:30am Comment 155 of 424

Once Rudd says sorry, it will do nothing but exacerbate the tensions between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Australia further. Compensation will be demanded, a big political spin will go on for another decade or so, mean while hundreds of women and children will continue to live in abusive communities. The minority of elites who have pushed this agenda for the past 15 years, have done so out of spite and contempt for the mainstream Australian society. Sorry will not make any world of difference and further action will be demanded. Even if compensation is agreed to with an apology, a treaty or another socially dividing action will be demanded afterwards. No one is ready to forgive and forget and unfortunately this will lead to many social tensions for years to come. Non-aboriginal Australians will see it as a slap in the face when so many have tried to build a relationship with their Aboriginal neighbours, while the aboriginals may see it as empty. Tim of Alice Springs 10:31am Comment 156 of 424

The standard of living will never be equalised in Australia anymore than it is between races in America. The same way it will never be equalised between Europe and Africa. Expecting ‘equality’ is ignorance. And it has nothing to do with ‘discrimination’ or ‘racism’. Different cultures and peoples have different capabilities. You can’t on the one hand want Aboriginals to continue with their culture, and on the other, expect them to have living standards comparable to Westerners. It is absurd. It isn’t about one group being superior, but about accepting that ethnic groups are different. You’re fighting a battle that nature doesn’t want won. Sami of Annandale 10:32am Comment 157 of 424

Firstly, the stolen generation didn’t happen ‘hundreds of years ago’ - it happened as recently as 1969, so yes, many people who are still alive today were likely involved. Secondly, it wasn’t just children being taken from abusive parents, children - particularly the fairer skinned ones, were routinely taken from their families to assimilate them into a white society. angela of sorry 10:32am Comment 158 of 424

So, Jeremy of Brisbane, when was the last time you even bothered lowering yourself to talk to or spend time with an aboriginal person. Get of your ¿I’m holier than thou¿ horse and try to put yourself in their position for even a fraction of a second. It¿s all very well telling other people from your wealthy middle class white vantage point that they should just get on with their lives. Your ignorance is so underwhelming. Paul of Salisbury East 10:32am Comment 159 of 424

say sorry and give them their land back, start with sydney’s rose bay. steve of goldcoast 10:36am Comment 160 of 424

The last thing Aboriginal communities need is another handout.. Throwing money at the situation hasn’t worked to fix the problem. The "entitlement" attitude is the biggest part of the problem. R S of QLD 10:36am Comment 161 of 424

When you say sorry you give the other person a chance to forgive. Until the stolen are given the opportunity to forgive they will always be stolen. What cost compassion empathy and understanding? bodhi 10:37am Comment 162 of 424

To Matt comment 93; 200 years, matt you obviously have no idea what your on about this happened 40-70 years ago. This was done to kids who had been brought into this world by White fathers and Indegenious mothers or visa verca. They literally had no understanding of where they came from not excepted in the white or black community. They had no contact with their birth parents and the government of the time actually prohibited any contact with their parents that hadn’t abused them. Has anyone ever said sorry to another human being after a traumatic event when they had nothing to do with that event. I know i have, just to make that person know that I cared and that i was there for them. Lets not forget that it was the protestant and catholic church that precipitated the removal of these children and the beatings that they received because they were the devils spawn. Let’s lay it out on the table and tell the real truth. If they were going to sue anyone it should be the churches that have to hand out compensation not the government. Ne Chance of Brisbane 10:37am Comment 163 of 424

Myk # 132 Spot on mate. Some sort of intervention needs to be done to protect these kids from being raped by their own. That’s were the money should go. Aboriginals should bridge the gap by saying thankyou. Does anyone know much compensation and payouts that Aboriginal get out of centre-link already??? Grace of Geelong 10:38am Comment 164 of 424

There are people, both indigenous and non-indigenous who are living in third-world conditions in our so-called first-world country. Indigenous people are statistically and significantly more likely to live under poor conditions, and this is a consequence of past injustice at the hands of the Australian government. Many injustices at the hands of different governments have happened to many different people in the past, all around the world. Indigenous Australians are not alone, and we should try to help all Australian families who need help. But these particular atrocities were at the hands of the Australian government, and I am sure that a formal apology, with or without compensation, will give some closure to at least some aboriginal people. chad 10:38am Comment 165 of 424

Elle of Palm Island, isn’t Rudd apologising for something that someone else did enough? Why does this have to be all about money? pb 10:39am Comment 166 of 424

Sorry for what exactly? Sorry for taking little kids away from a cycle of sexual abuse, alcoholism, etc?? If Rudd says "Sorry" can we have the indigenous leaders say "Thanks"? Sarah of Brisbane 10:39am Comment 167 of 424

cash does not say sorry… its materialistic. its in the words! cass m of perth 10:39am Comment 168 of 424

My my my, Its sad to see that in 2008 the same old chestnuts are still being wheeled out….they get Hand outs, don’t use my tax dollars they’ll just waste it, it wasn’t my fault. What a load of hypocritical bulldust. What constitutes a hand out- is it the dole, the baby bonus, Austudy, the 1st home owners grant..(Ding is that a reality check!) .What about wasting Tax dollars do people realise that 99% of Aboriginal money is administered by White Bearuecrats & Aboriginal people have little say in how it is spent. Wasn’t my fault, why should i apologise, it was so long ago….DING! Aboriginal people were only recognised as Aussie citizens 40 Yrs ago, thats only 40 years to go from being treated as animals with little rights to functioning successful members of society, that’s not a long time! John Howard and others were Government ministers when children were still being forcibly removed, So it wasn’t that long ago. Saying sorry isn’t going to solve everything, but it is an important step in the government acknowledging Australia’s dark past, one of many things that Australia historically has tried to whitewash. Jezza 10:41am Comment 169 of 424

"Sorry" for introducing alcohol to the aborgionals…. Marty 10:42am Comment 170 of 424

The Australian people with the ‘big’ homes and pools etc. are usually the ones who have got in and had a go - in most instances. (Some are acquired thru inheritance),so isn’t this something possible for all who are willing to work? In order to get a job we need some sort of education, decent appearance and sense of self pride. I have worked with aboriginals who have these qualities and they have got ahead in life and are happy with well adjusted kids. If it is possible for a few I dont understand why it isnt possible for all. To get anywhere in life -whatever our race or creed - we have to get off our butts and have a go. While there is this idea of them and us, things will never change. There are vast tracts of land where aboriginals are living-their own land- and no one else is allowed to go there. But, you cant just squat there and expect to get ahead. You have to have a go. And, I think if there is any apologising to be done, a lot of them need to apologise to their current generation for the way they are being treated right now. No decent Australian would have treated the so called stolen generation is this way. Is there anyone in the stolen generation who wasnt fed and cared for? liberty rose of Toowoomba 10:42am Comment 171 of 424

I can can stand up and say I have never held any racist views. I am a proud Australian. Why can’t our indigenous brothers and sisters stand beside us united as one Australia? The past is past, apologies, compensation, land rights … where will it end? How does this unite our country? I am quite frankly bloody fed up! Cruella of Qld 10:42am Comment 172 of 424

The Government made no secret of its stance on this issue at the last election. If it people found this so abhorrent they were free to make their vote on it at last years election. Ultimately they lost and Rudd is therefore free to act on this issue. Its not that big a deal, he is doing what leaders do and that is trying to bridge a gap. Swallow you’re pride and lets make this a non-issue. We can the move forward with addressing other important problems in the indigenous community. We must show respect to indigenous people by allowing the process to be transparent and by allowing significant input by their leaders. It does, after all, affect them. ML1975 of Sydney 10:43am Comment 173 of 424

What always surprises me when this issue comes up is the way it divides the community amongst people happy to apologise and people who do not. The argument I detest the most amongst those not wanting to apologise is that ‘they had nothing to do with the stolen generation, or the heinous acts carried out in this countries name against the indigenous population, so why should they be sorry?’ Australia is a country with a history, the history does not end with the passing of a generation. We are all immensely proud of our countrymen who served in World War 1 and World War 2 and we are happy to commerorate their memories in the defence of liberty and freedom. But it sickens me when on one hand we can hold aloft the glory of our nation and we cannot acknowledge our short comings. I love this country, and I love what we could be if we took responsibility for all of its citizens. A country should be measured by the life of its lowest citizens. If we raise this life up, we set a benchmark for our society. Anyway those are my thoughts. Martin of Canberra 10:43am Comment 174 of 424

Now Rudd is apologising to Australia’s stolen generations! What, we have generation upon generation or thousands and thousands of Aboriginals that have been stolen yet no one seems to be able to explain who stole them and how many went missing. This is yet another Labor Furphy. Hilly 10:43am Comment 175 of 424

Why dont we all just pack up and go home and leave these people in peace, yes all 20 million of us. Its the right thing to do. Our forefathers didnt know any better as they explored and developed the world, and believed they were bringing civilisation and christianity to these countries These explorers were wrong and just exploited these lands and I think we should give it back and all go back to where we came from. Thats the only way to say sorry and mean it. Land Grab of WA 10:45am Comment 176 of 424

Natalie of Sydney, you sound smart and hot I agree with you totally. the man 10:51am Comment 177 of 424

Im an immigrant who came to terrible adversity and made a go of it. I believe that if saying ’sorry’ will help the healing process and motivate the indigenous people to rebuild their lives and move on than im all for it. I don’t think compo is required because the Indigenous already get so much help and incentive. An example is AbStudy. Aus Lover of Canberra 10:52am Comment 178 of 424

 

We have been compensating them for 220 years. Craig 10:52am Comment 179 of 424

I think we are doing enough to support those you are deliberately not supporting themselves. Education and employment can be obtained by anyone if you want to better yourself and take responsibility for your own actions. Andrew of Melbourne 10:53am Comment 180 of 424

If the stolen generation were white the only debate about compensation would be how much to give them. Kris of Melb 10:54am Comment 181 of 424

fear, fear, fear. After more than a decade of it, its all the huggers know. You don’t think Rudd would have got legal advice of his own? The PMs dept, as do all depts, would have its own team of lawyers especially for this sort of thing. Whatever your view on an apology clearly something has to be done re Aboriginal affairs. Anyone with half a brain can see that the current situaion is disfunctional. We can’t continue to have an underclass with a life expectancy of 2 decades below the rest of the country. To get things moving in the right direction where the Aboriginal ‘nation’ after 220 years in the wilderness finally joins the rest of the country we need an apology. Why is that a problem? But then, once the apology comes, a recognition needs to come from the aboriginal community that from here on in its a 2 way street. No more raising your kids to hate white australia, no more welfare dependency. These are self defeating features of the current social climate and it will take years to change. But the Howard huggers will be screeching when Rudd isn’t able to change it all with a magic wand in a fortnight. Howard had 11 years and did 0. Tree Hugger 10:55am Comment 182 of 424

Is saying sorry going to make any difference to something that can’t be changed, I don’t think so…………. Lucie Gleeson of Perth 10:55am Comment 183 of 424

Grace - I remember years ago the figure was at $1.something million per aboriginal in Australia. We would have been betting off literally giving that amount to each aboriginal instead of wasting it on things like ATSIC. Luke of Brisbane 10:55am Comment 184 of 424

Kevin of Double Bay 10:20am today Comment 136 of 162 Hey Kevin, Double Bay is a sacred aboriginal site, Just ask Elle from Palm Island, when she receives her compensation, she will move in next door, forget about the Central locking on the Audi, i would have 24Hour CCTV around the Mansion if i were you. Oh and the Yact Club would be refurbished to the local PCYC. Enjoy it while it lasts Kevin how is that grange tasting old man.?Welcome to the Outer Suburbs Kevin!. Renato of Terrey Hills GC 10:55am Comment 185 of 424

saying sorry will help those who really need to hear it , but the rift between black and white will never heel look how saying sorry cuts to the bone from the coments on this page . we do not all live of hand outs Simon of QLD 10:57am Comment 186 of 424

Here we go again. Rollback to the past with an issue that has done nothing but cause deep divisions within the community all for the sake of political PR. Political correctness will absolve us of the aboriginal problem? It will only please indigenous people who dont have to suffer the poverty and disfunctionality most of them suffer in the bush. An apology is only genuine if it comes directly from the people causing the problem and theyre all dead. Anything less is insulting and unintelligent. If anything, the Government should be apologising for neglecting the health , education, social and financial future of those desperate and afflicted fellow Australians we’ve come to be presently ashamed of. Lets not have another ridiculous Sorry campaign in 50 years time for the people we are neglecting today. Lets do something about it now.  anthony graham 10:58am Comment 187 of 424

There’s already been money, loads of it. I’m talking about Aboriginal only entitlements such as welfare, abstudy, healthcare, education, housing, etc, all these benefits which were offered specifically and solely to Aboriginals while everyone else gets much less even if they require just as much. After this ’sorry’ will -all- Australians be on a level playing field when it comes to hand outs, will the government stop the discrimination against everyone and give them the same benefits that Aboriginals have been allowed? As a taxpayer i’m disgusted that my taxes have been going towards such discrimination. Not to mention as has already been said numerous times, kids were taken from brutal environments, and it wasn’t just Aboriginal children, if we hadn’t done anything they would be arguing that we never did enough and they deserve an apology for the neglect. jb of Sydney 10:59am Comment 188 of 424

Where does one stop? I am sorry I worked hard and have more than you. I am sorry I have a house I own through hard work and much saving, and you dont. I am sorry I stayed in school and got educated, whereas you didn’t bother. I am sorry I went further, busting my gut to get a degree so I could get a better job, and you didn’t. I am sorry I look after myself and stay healthy and you dont. I am sorry for having stuff that you want, whereas you didn’t even have a cooking pot, even after 30,000 years. I am sorry for having a *work ethic* and you dont. I am sorry for earning money so that you can be given things. I am sorry… Oh, what is the use! You dont really want an apology. You just want to be given more. Ralph of Queensland 10:59am Comment 189 of 424

Sarah of Brisbane, You may be banging on a very hollow drum if you have not informed yourself as to why an apology is necessary. the Bringing Them Home Report details the abuses of fundamental human rights, on children and their famiilies by the Govts of Australia. These children were removed for no other reason than the colour of their skin. see www.nsdc.org.au or the FAQs on www.reconcile.org.au if you want to have an ‘informed’ opinion in this debate. And, thank you for what? For having their countries (over 520 well organised countries with laws and culture and languages existed at the time that the British Govt deemed that no one lived here). then when the Australian Govt was formed they had their children, their freedom and then their wages stolen… merely because of the colour of their skin, and yet it was okay for people (not their own) to abuse, rape, murder and put them into slavery or detention with no crime committed by them but again because of the colour of their skin - that is WRONG. do yourself, and everybody else a favour, find out the facts first. SmileyJen of brisbane 11:00am Comment 190 of 424

A cynic would suggest that this whole *sorry* debacle is about nothing but money. The lawyers have already suggested if the government makes an apology there may be grounds for compensation regardless of what K Rudd says. They are salavating already at the rich pickings this one will potentially bring. Hand-wringers wake up! You are living in a dream world… Peter of Sydney 11:02am Comment 191 of 424

To all that suggest that financial compensation should not be given to the indigenous community because of the wrong done to them, a couple of questions. Are you suggesting that anyone not in a position of power who is abused by those in a position of power should not receive compensation or justice, or just those marginalized and out of sight? Is it wrong for someone who has been displaced by a government to seek recompense for that displacement? If the government compulsorily acquires a building in order to build a freeway are you suggesting that the relevant home owners not be paid the value of they property? Or are you, in fact, just racist and looking for an excuse to put forward a populist argument so that you can avoid any accountably for your statements as a racist? Robert of Adelaide 11:03am Comment 192 of 424

Read with interest the article about the Aboriginal man burning our flag. Do we not agree that an apology should only be delivered to those deserving of it. Maybe if another colonial power settled Australia this ’sorry’ argument would be a moot point - our greatest gift to these un Australian losers is their voice. They throw it back at us like ungrateful, spoilt brats. Mark of Sydney 11:03am Comment 193 of 424

Sarah of Brisbane - Sorry is not for the alcoholism, sexual abuse etc. These are all symptoms of people who have been systematically neglected, abused and culturally eroded for centuries. All the policies which were designed to ‘help’ Indigenous Australians have only backfired. People are bored, sad, shamed and have nothing to feel proud of anymore. It’s no wonder these atrocities happen. PB - as the elected representative of this country the PM has the right to feel proud of and responsible to the achievements, successes AND failures of our nation’s history and past policies. This country prides itself on our ‘fair go’ and ‘mateship’ principles. If we do value these principles can we not apply these to help out our fellow Indigenous brothers and sisters too? Kimberley of Brisbane 11:03am Comment 194 of 424

While Mr Rudd would never be held accountable for the stolen generation, he is certainly taking the necessary steps towards reconciliation. Remember, many of the ’stolen generation’ are still alive and pass on their anguish to their children and their children’s children. Mr Rudd is taking the appropriate steps to end this continuous circle of regret and pain by making an appology on behalf of the government that comitted the attrocity. Jake Farr-Wharton of Moggil, Qld 11:03am Comment 195 of 424

Isabell, of Norseman, you poor delusional mixed up little thing . The government of the day were trying various ways to help these people asymilate into Australian society. After years of failed policy to help Aboriginals this was just another idea the government tried. This taking of the children from absolute poverty and deprevation was not done by evil people, on the contrary it was done by people who thought they were doing the right thing trying to help Aboriginal people out of the squalor they were living in. Similar to todays problems with child abuse and Alcohol and substance abuse, would you have the government stand back and do nothing, or would you expect these children to be removed from this threat.? Damned if you do Damned if you dont of WA 11:03am Comment 196 of 424

Is Rudd going to apologise over the price and petrol and LPG which have gone up significantly in price since Rudd won? curious 11:04am Comment 197 of 424

Dont we give them enough money as it is through Centrelink etc? If we give more will they spend it to better themselves???? miss adelaide of Adelaide 11:04am Comment 198 of 424

To Elle of Palm Island. Perhaps you can enlighten us all as to the exact nature of your compensation claim for Palm Island? How would compensation money solve the issues facing Palm Island residents and how would your community spend the money to benefit the community as a whole. How do you also distinguish between the annual funding already received by Palm Island residents vs additional compensation? Instead of coming on here as you have done in the past and say that "we" owe "you", why not try to tell us what for and make us understand how we can help? Allan of Gold Coast 11:04am Comment 199 of 424

Of course theres no money for them, its all gone on politicians superannuation entitlements, and lazy pensions for the rest of the white community. One could argue that Aussies are really the bottom of the barrel, The whites steal their land, destroy their culture, kill them of by the numbers, and abandon them to live in abject misery, in nothing short of containment villages. Just the same as that done to the Palestinians, terrible actions by a terribel peoples. Sawtell of Perth 11:06am Comment 200 of 424

I was stolen¿ by my grandmother because my mum was 15 when I was born. I¿m non-aboriginal unfortunately so I don¿t get an apology and there is no government for me to sue for compensation¿ it¿s not fair, I demand an apology and compensation for not being entitled to an apology and compensation. Honestly I don¿t think an apology is really going to help the aboriginal community, maybe we (white Australia) need to steel all aboriginals and bring them into our society or just leave them alone to live there life the way they want to. Stop the patch up fixes. Paul of Brisbane 11:07am Comment 201 of 424

Most of the people posting replies are ignorant and ill-informed. Firstly, read F. Delano of Toowoomba comment at 8:47am today. Excelent post. Secondly, look up the definitioon of sorry. Thirdly, find something relevant to complain about, then actually do something about it. Most of you are just a pack of whingers, and no matter what gets done you wil complain, while not being productive in finding any real solutions yourselves. Sorry for your ignorance of Gold Coast 11:09am Comment 202 of 424

Yes terrible things were done to the aboriginies terrible things were also done to the prisoners that were sent here. Has any one that is non indigeous demanded sorry from Englsnd? Because I do not know. Saying sorry may help a little but what is needed forgiveness k. Blame does not help anyone.It just keeps things things festering Forgiveness stops hatred in its tracks that is why it is so powerful. Revenge just goes on and on and on until either side cant remember why it started I say stop it now lets move on and become a unified country. It is a shame that the human race is not good at this Leigh of Lton 11:10am Comment 203 of 424

I’m over it!!!!! How about we all get the SAME rights and we move on from here, as far as I (and a lot of others) am concerned this will solve nothing. Harry of Adelaide 11:10am Comment 204 of 424

Stu of Alice Springs. Stupid comment. I grew up in a wealthy part of Sydney and went to a private school along side several aboriginal people. Through them ,who 20 years on are still friends, I have met many more. The difference is they actually made something of their lives, got an education (which was free to them) and now all have well paying jobs, own houses and send their own children also to private schools. Most belive that money won’t solve any problems, but attitudes need to change. Just like yours. I am sure you don’t begrudge an aboriginal who works hard to live a good lifestyle, so why a white person? Jack 11:11am Comment 205 of 424

From Greg: "Rudd makes it "clear" that he will be speaking in the "Governments " name and not on behalf of individual Australian’s." Mate your deluded if you think that there is a magic line between the government and us. This is a government WE the PEOPLE foolishly elected, They are our voice. An apology from them is symbolically an apology from US you fool. With all the controversy surrounding this "apologetic" political stunt, I think there needs to be a petition submitted to the federal government, signed by all those who condemn this "apology" at least then it will be on public record Steve 11:13am Comment 206 of 424

You right Cruella of QLD ! And why shoul not they work for the dole , like all the rest of us. andre of sydney working family 11:13am Comment 207 of 424

hahaha @ Land Grab of WA. Righto mate, we’ll race you. You can have a head start.  Joshua of Newcastle 11:14am Comment 208 of 424

Are we to go on hearing the Aboriginals whingeing week after week,, year after year decade after decade, century after century. Its up to the so called leaders of their communities to change these peoples attitudes, from the hard done by white man owes us mentality, to the lets get off our arses and no matter how difficult lets give it try for our childrens sake attitude. Maybe if they just showed a little more willing on their part they might get a little more help and respect from Australia. The government seems to help all the other nationalities living here and provide them with equal rights and opportunities as long as they are willing to try and help themselves. JP of WA 11:15am Comment 209 of 424

i am not a racist and i am also not sorry for anything. I didn’t vote for this peanut and i don’t give him permission to include me in his apology. I respect his right to make his own personal apology if he is so stupid to apologise for someting he had nothing to do with? shane kearns of drummoyne 11:16am Comment 210 of 424

What a flap over nothing. One word, one lousy word, spoken by a politician no less. A whole race is getting all bent out of shape over an empty word while the government intervenes over child sexual abuse and alcoholism out of control.. A lot of people need to have a good look at their priorities. Craig of Sydney 11:16am Comment 211 of 424

"Land Grab of WA " And where will we all go you idiot? Are you saying the descendants of the Saxons should be tracked down and kicked out of England? Lucas 11:16am Comment 212 of 424

i dont think they need more compensation. as a white mother of two koori kids we receive benifets just because of there aboriginality. when you consider the different allowences with housing, health, schooling and the rest as well, they have been and still are being compensated already. carly lang 11:19am Comment 213 of 424

Land Grab - (comm171) - I don’t think so. I was born here. Therefore I am also indigenous, like my fellow aborigine. Mark C of Darwin 11:19am Comment 214 of 424

Sorry? Surely many news items in recent times (i.e. gang rapes, systemic physical and sexual abuse of women and children, etc, etc) is a clear example of why children in risk where relocated to foster parents? If you disagree with that, just refer to the need for the NT intervention. These kids where living in creeks and slums, not in North Sydney. I find it very sad that we are not putting this much effort and debate into aboriginal health, education, etc, etc!!! Lets get real and stop being politically correct - political correctness does not extend the life or health of an aboriginal child. And guess what, sorry won¿t either! Steve Hall 11:20am Comment 215 of 424

It’s about time that this stolen generation saga was dealt with once and for all. Saying ‘Sorry’ will go a long way in healing the hurt that was endured by so many. As for compensation, it really isnt such a big deal if you really think about it .. a bloke gets $250000 .. buys cars, furniture, toys and clothes at retail prices, Rudd get’s some back it direct tax and then gets more back from the wages of sales people etc and so on. The compensation is is gone in six months and then those people who have profited from the ‘real stolen generation’ will need to find another gravy train to ride on, leaving the wider community to help those poor souls who really need it. To the real Stolen Generation ~ I am really very sorry for what you and your family endured. To the pretenders ~ Go far far away and stay there. Lala of Near the Murray 11:20am Comment 216 of 424

The facts are pretty simple. We moved in, uninvited, and stole their land. We should at least be paying rent, all of us. Instead of an Australian Citizenship test there needs to be an Australian Aboriginal Culture test, for all of us. Finally, it’s clear that the head of state needs to be Aboriginal. Do these things and "sorry" will become irrelevant. pablo of ballarat 11:21am Comment 217 of 424

Okay after saying sorry, would they now be prepared to be united under one flag? Or would they now believe they are, on account of the admission of these wrongs be working at receiving compensation. The generous handouts did not get them anywhere. Like all of us, adjust your f…..in clock and get on with it. Arlene Elayda of Sydney 11:21am Comment 218 of 424

Mr Rudd: exactly how many aborigines were “stolen'’? Can you categorically state that each and every one (when you can produce evidence of their existence - just one genuine case will do) was not better off by being removed from disfunctional families? If you can’t, then this is nothing but another ALP stunt. Trebor of Ningan 11:22am Comment 219 of 424

It irks me no end that the majority of people supported the previous government’s quest to secure an apology from the Japanese government for the Australian ‘comfort women’ (sex slaves) and were outraged when they didn’t get it. The current Japanese government wasn’t to blame, but it was a symbolic guesture. However, when Australia is asked to make a similarly symbolic apology by it’s own people, it’s a drama, not out fault, we shouldn’t apologise etc. An apology is a bridge; an olive branch, a way to move on from the wrongs of the past. Aboriginals have as much right to an apology as the ‘comfort women’ - or do we just want an apology for them because they are white and the men who raped them weren’t? Anna 11:22am Comment 220 of 424

it’s good to see that Rudd is annoying the racist rednecks. GO RUDD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Hebs of Brisbane 11:22am Comment 221 of 424

Instead of saying sorry, perhaps they should that the government. They could have been treated like the South American natives and culturally exterminated. Small pox, etc destroyed entire regions. They could have been hunted down and enslaved like those unfortunates in Africa under other colonial masters. Failing that, Japanese invasion in WW2, Indonesia taking control as per Timor, etc, they would be lucky if there was even a foot note in history books about them. The French, Germans, Spanish, Belgians all have far worse Colonial histories and far fewer witnesses, apart from what can be divined by Forensic Anthropologists. The problem we have at the moment is the image of the `Noble Savage¿, where there is a carefree life, where everyone lived to a ripe old age. Aboriginal society was a primitive, violent society. High infant mortality, rampant diseases, perpetual danger of starvation, etc. Hunter/gatherer societies are usually one hunt away from hunger, and 2 or 3 away from starvation. Modern society has provided medicine, education, access to jobs, access to regular and safe foods, etc. annoyed 11:23am Comment 222 of 424

Martin of Canberra the reason I object to an apology is very simple. People, of all races and religions, where taken from their home environment to protect them harm, physical or mental. This was done in yesteryear as it is being done this very day. However only one group of people has made an industry of protesting this protective measure. In doing so they have established an industry that leeches money from many sources. Yet it can be shown that very little of this money actually gets to the people most deserving. There is also very little evidence of self improvement, there is however abundant evidence of apathy and self pity. Keith of Port Hedland 11:23am Comment 223 of 424

I am sorry that the aboriginal people do not have permanent seats in government that reflect the successful invasion and colonisation of Australia. 60,000 years of aboriginal marriage to this land is more than enough to establish a sense of ownership. How can white racists justify 200 years of forceful occupation and colonisation as far superior. An apology and compensation is not enough, we need Aboriginal people in parliament, I doubt for another 58,800 years we will ever see an Aboriginal become Prime Minister. Bring on the Republic of Aborigine Australia. Bruno of Perth 11:24am Comment 224 of 424

Sally of Perth (comment 89) - what do you mean they’re battling to find a little piece of land to live on! I live on a 500m2 block - they have more land than me yet still receive benefits that I will never receive in a life time! How about the saying, help those who help themselves. If we continue to spoon feed the aboriginal communities, how are they ever going to improve their living conditions! And as for the dirty toilet seat comment, well I’m able to clean my loo with regular toilet cleaner - I’m sure they can get their hands on some of that and do a bit of hard work, instead of sitting back & letting all the care-bears out there feel sorry for them and pay for their "stay at home, get drunk, break the law (without retribution), do-what-i-want" lifestyle. Hmm, give them more money to feed their increasing boredom (leaving little else to do except drink & fight) - what a great idea… T of Bris 11:24am Comment 225 of 424

Perhaps all of us non-indigenous folk should go and sit outside the closest parliment house, and demand an apology for the government removing white children from physically and sexually abusive homes, for offering government funded health, government funded or subsidised education, subsidised housing and the like ? Or does that sound absurb coming from a white Australian who shares the same opportunities, benefits, and history of abused children being removed and placed in foster care as aboriginal people. Ben of Melbourne 11:28am Comment 226 of 424

I have worked amongst the aboriginal stockmen in the Gulf country and I have always found them a great bunch. I’m wondering if it is a small vocal minority driving this compensation thing? Also…….Is it at all possible to find out the total expenditure paid out to the indigenous people of Australia for one financial year? Never seem to hear much about it. Big Blue of Shellharbour 11:30am Comment 227 of 424

An apology is a good step towards reconcilliation. Some of the postings here show the narrowmindeness and ignorance displayed towards indigenous people by some white Australians. Steve of Parramatta 11:31am Comment 228 of 424

The notion that a Government apology would in some way correct perceived historical injustices is absurd. Government departments and other organisations liberated children from neglectful and abusive environments for the benefit of the childrens’ welfare. Only when the aboriginal industry moves on from the victim mindset seeking compensation and recognises their responsibility to their children will true reconciliation be attained. SM of Sydney 11:32am Comment 229 of 424

Where are all the Labor voters now ?????? Embarrassed I guess. snakebite 11:32am Comment 230 of 424

What give them more? You got to be joking! Tim Senrab of Your Place 11:34am Comment 231 of 424

Surely Rudd has to apologise? I thought everything was Krudd’s fault? From stolen generation to climate change, interest rates, petrol prices, the screw up that is the war on terror, its all his fault.. Rubbish 11:38am Comment 232 of 424

Who do we have to contact to get a referendum on this issue. da mob of orcal massif 11:38am Comment 233 of 424

You have to get back to the issue, regardless of race. These people were taken from their family and given to someone else or exposed to abusive organisations. The Catholic church is paying massive amounts of compensation for their abuses. Why would this be any different. John of Perth 11:39am Comment 234 of 424

Children were taken from their parents for no other reason than the belief that White Australians could bring up children better than their parents. This is wrong ! No bollocking on about "I wasn’t there" or "Aboriginals get preferential treatment" or "I didn’t vote this government in" will change that. The FACT is - a majority of voters in Australia DID vote the current government in knowing that an apology was on their agenda. I’m sorry but if getting preferential treatment is having a life expectancy less than the norm - I dont want it ! Finally - in the interests og unity an apology should be made. Unity is easy to call for if you don’t want to do anything about it - and an apology is an easy and RIGHT thing to do. Stewart 11:40am Comment 235 of 424

 

give rudd a break u muppets…hes done good on this one… the abboriginal community need to start looking at themselves and fixing their own problems rather than looking for handouts…sorry means sorry…sorry shouldnt mean free money at the expense of working australians like me….when was the last time i got anything for free?? Never! and why are we apologising for the mistakes of previous generations…had nothing to do with me… user 11:41am Comment 236 of 424

What do the Aboriginals really want? Sorry or compensation? If it is just "sorry" then they’ve got it. But somehow it doesn’t look like that…. mike 11:41am Comment 237 of 424

Just say it already and move on to more important stuff. I’m not for saying sorry, but I’m sick of it being an issue. If it costs us a few billion to compensate, so be it - it’ll be nothing compared to the billions squandered by Bob Hawke’s ATSIC. If you have to, add a 1% resources tax to fund it - the BHP’s and RIO’s can afford it. While you’re at it, lets make us a republic too - that will no doubt be the next lame issue to be debated to distract us from an under performing Government. Phil 11:42am Comment 238 of 424

It is right for the government to say sorry. But it is impossible to compensate for something that happenned so long ago. It was bad policy to remove children from all aboriginal families. The aborigines I worked with have been outstanding citizens. Remeber the media ONLY EVER HIGHLIGHT THE NEGATIVES. I don’t believe people should also be scared to sorry and risk litigation. That set a very dangerous precedent. Brissie boy 11:43am Comment 239 of 424

You know what? Next time I wont try to bring in phones, money, language, trade, transport, medicine, electricity, and law and just let you try and fend for your self with rocks and pointy sticks. I mean lets face it european settlement was the best thing that has ever happened to the aboriginies. And by thier own hand are they still living in poverty. They blame us for introducing them to alchahol but if they had the selfcontrol to stop drinking there wouldnt be a problem. yes next time we wont try and save young babies from beatings. rape and poverty. Harvey of Brisbane 11:45am Comment 240 of 424

I will accept an apology on behalf of the GOVERNMENT but not on behalf of the PEOPLE. It is absurd to say that there is some collective, trans-historical responsibility in the "Australian people" for past wrongs. This sounds like a weird platonism to me. Further, Aborigines are part of the Australian people, so it would be a fallacy to apologise to them "on behalf of the people." It is plausible to say that there is an historical and ongoing responsibility in the government, which continues to fail in indiginous policy. Rudd should apologise on behalf of the government of Australia only. Chris Tyack of Brisbane 11:45am Comment 241 of 424

I’d like to hear a "thankyou" from the aboriginals that were taken away to a better place. I’m sure most of the "stolen generation" would be dead now if they had not been saved. I suppose in 20 years from now the government will be asked to apologise because they haven’t taken abused/malnourished/uneducated kids from their current biological parents Paul of Hunters Hill 11:45am Comment 242 of 424

Dear Bruno of Perth… It would appear that you are suggestion we allow people to represent Australian, not on their merits, values, beliefs, opinions and the other methods that we currently use in this democracy, but instead we place people in a position of power because of their race. I would suggest that this is very much the height of racial discrimination. People getting the priviledge of representation simply because they were born into an aboriginal family, does seem to go against what are trying to say. Poor fellow. Perhaps we should give something like the Northern Territory back to the Aboriginals. Remove all aspects of what you see as ‘white culture’ and leave them to it. No TV, no clothing, no alcohol, no drugs, no medical supplies, no hospitals, no schools, no education, no police, no housing, no security, no passports, no assistance. Clearly this must be what aboriginal australia wants, well so you say anyway. Andrew of Melbourne 11:46am Comment 243 of 424

Any person with a heart would feel the need to apologize just like you would to a friend who’s had a bad experience or have lost a family member, so I do believe it is a diplomatic and generous gesture to ’say sorry’ and feel badly for them. However, this government and most of the people alive today were not and are not personally responsible for the decisions made by the previous government or the past and therefore, just like you would a friend, you would not provide them with any financial compensations. Jan of Brisbane 11:46am Comment 244 of 424

What a joke! Give the Aboriginals their own State and let them go back to the life they had 200+ years ago. Living off the land, no money, no booze, no medical assistance, no free handouts and no free accomodation, no mod cons. Maybe that will make them happy. They should think themselves lucky it wasn’t the French that claimed this land first or they would have had it tough. Zero Tolerance should be this countries policy. Wise up! Michelle of NSW 11:47am Comment 245 of 424

I don’t want this goverment to appologise for me as i have had nothing to do with it and they are only after the money!!!!!!! NOT SORRY!!!!! Glenn of Melbourne 11:47am Comment 246 of 424

To snakebite comment 215, only embarrassed that ignorant fools such as you post tripe on websites. Wilko of Blacktown 11:48am Comment 247 of 424

Suggest Rudd goes and reads the news article "Food prices skyrocket" and apologise for that too. Just a thought 11:48am Comment 248 of 424

Of course - no money! expect an apology and money for compensation? oh please get real! Jam of Perth 11:48am Comment 249 of 424

I had a wonderful INVASION day on the 26th. Just my little way of acknowledging all the masacres that happened and that were swept under the carpet. None of us learnt that at school did we yes Australia has a history of genocide but no-one wants to admit it. Saying sorry to the stolen generation is the first step in letting murri’s and koori’s no that they are accepted in australian life and that they are valuable asset to us all. Ne Chance of Brisvegas 11:50am Comment 250 of 424

SM - sorry but did you say the ‘aboriginal industry’? i dont know if thats the right use of words right there why the hell would we give these people money. to save their falling living standards and help them become more ‘integrated’ people in our society? neither will happen. a large amount of funds would probably just increase the rate of decline in these communities and of course, when that runs out who will they put their hand out to again? for ages people have needed to realise that while they say they just want an apology, nothings ever that simple. i didnt vote for rudd but good on him for standing his ground Javid VDP of Sydney 11:50am Comment 251 of 424

This whole debacle has been awfully polarizing and divisive, for something that’s meant to be reconciliatory and unifying. Drop it, Kev. We don’t want you to keep this election promise! What a waste of time and money this will be. Jim 11:50am Comment 252 of 424

I’m so sick of this sorry debate, its pathetic…its irrelevant in today’s society! Why is it that generations later we feel compelled to keep apologising for previous generations that were responsible for the poor treatment of indigenous people. Lets move on, whats happened has happened. Government simply need to say nothing! Stupid stupid stupid debate! Karmen 11:51am Comment 253 of 424

To pablo of ballarat 11:21am today Comment 198 of 208. You say we should at least be paying rent….just what do you call the mining royalties and government handouts currently provided to indigenous Australians? In any event, the "stolen generation" issue has nothing to do with colonisation and paying rent. It has to do with the 13,000 or so indigenous Australians who were "stolen" by the Australian Government. The apology is not about colonisation, it is about a specific act or series of acts to do with the Stolen Generation. Allan of Gold Coast 11:52am Comment 254 of 424

The whole compensation issue is probably a non issue- 15 years ago everybody was ranting about MABO (that’s right it’s been 15 years) and how the aborigines would steal everybody’s backyard and claim all the national icons like the Opera house and the harbour bridge and all our mining land. Whilst land claims have been made and some have been won, the Harbour bridge and Opera house are still govt owned and people still have a house and backyard , and judging by the mining boom and the rich white mining executives- I think we are pretty safe. Everybody screams compensation, it’s available through most state governments now and I’m not seeing the State coffers been run dry by aboriginal compensation claims. As for why we didn’t say sorry before Howard never said sorry for anything. I believe in the election there was a debate about whether he said sorry for interest rates rising . I think the washup was he was sorry interest rates were going up as that was unfortunate for australians- but he wasn’t sorry for the way he ran the econony which caused interest rates to go up. Michelle of sydney 11:52am Comment 255 of 424

Trebor of Ningan, how ignorant! I am so saddened by so-called ‘Australians’ who have glorified white man’s existence in Australia and can’t find it in their hearts to say sorry. As a 23 year old Australian with an immigrant Polish, Jewish and Scottish background I had nothing to do with the stolen generation, but as an act of selflessness (something all decent Australians should have) I would like to say sorry! Good on you Kevin! sorry of Hobart 11:54am Comment 256 of 424

There isn’t an aboriginal alive today, who but for their own actions , isn’t better off for the Europeans having settled this land. I’ll say sorry when they say thanks. Brian of Sydney 11:54am Comment 257 of 424

To say sorry is much more than money. Its about recognising our past, the good and the bad. It is vital for our country to grow beyond its socially stagnate existence that keeps on going around in circles and looking to other countries (especially America) for a sense of identity and meaning of what is good. For example, to know what is good for the Aboriginal people is to know and be aware of what they went through. The Australian Aboriginal people’s survival is the stuff of LEGEND! The stories of their survival is like gold for our culture and place in the world. … Think about it. For example, one of the most recent Massacres recognised by the government had only happened in the 1930s, there maybe survivors or at least relatives to the survivors of this time. This story needs to be told and reflected upon to help us understand both sides of the conflict. If we (Aboriginal too) ignore such events and the aboriginal survival then we will never find the true value of what is good for our country. Get your heads out of the sand! Jas of Sydney 11:54am Comment 258 of 424

I think it’s great that Rudd apologises, only because we would be a step closer to not having to hear about it anymore and I’m glad he’s said no to compensation. Maybe that’s why Howard didn’t apologise though, as soon as he did, hands would be held out for more because he would be admitting they were wronged, therefore justifying more money. I wish the people of today would realise that what happened then was not out fault and we owe nothing. And since when… does money make this situation better for those that went through it? Do they want to make the ’stolen’ generation the ‘purchased’ generation??? ‘It’s ok now, they paid for my child’?? Hi 11:56am Comment 259 of 424

If you go back and count the posts for compensation and those that are against - guess which one wins!!! Hopefully the Government will ot buckle under to the minority who just cannot see that greed can never be satisfied. There are so many really sensible posts from some really down to earth nice people !!! Thank you ! keep posting please -Australia needs you !!! averill of Perth 11:57am Comment 260 of 424

After reading most of this forum - the major fact is staring at me like a neon light - money, compensation, me me me! Surely Australians can see past this me me me stuff - it’s shallow, it’s narrow-minded, it’s actually very childish and selfish as well. What i would like to see is a way forward - a way that engages all Australians to take part and relish our wonderful country - and bury this me me me attitude somewhere very far away!! John of Brisbane 11:57am Comment 261 of 424

I support the PM apologising to the Aboriginals because maybe that way we can stop hearing about how hard done by they are. Aboriginals get more benefits than the people making the laws. They get educational benefits, housing benefits and STILL we are being told that our tax dollars should be providing them some form of financial compensation. Why? They have every opportunity to go out there and get a job and earn a living like anyone else, they can go and get an education at a discounted rate, and housing is cheaper for them too. Granted its not the majority of the Aboriginal population who are bludging off of the government but I really think that a small percentage of their community is giving them a really bad name. Give them the apology… but how about putting our tax dollars towards something useful for everyone… like helping people through the drought? Or lowering interest rates?  Jessica of Sydney 11:58am Comment 262 of 424

Jack (190) So they were succesfully assimiliated into white society is what you mean? Who needs a 50,000+ year old culture anyway, huh? Rachel of Melbourne 11:58am Comment 263 of 424

Let me enlighten some of you. Murri’s and Koori’s don’t own the land that they live on in these communities. It is Crown or state land leased to them they have no ownership except that they may hand the house down to their families to live in when they pass on. I’m sick and tired of people with no knowledge of the subject giving their two cents. I dar anyone of you knockers to go live in a community and see the hardships these people have to deal with in everyday life. Just another fact Aboriginal infant mortality is the highest in the world explain to me how this can happen in the lucky country with all these people getting their supposed handouts. Ne Chance of Brisbane 12:00pm Comment 264 of 424

No one is saying more money is being thrown at them. A common theme being shared here is that we are all equal and should all stand up equally. Well… it’s pretty hard to be equal when you are unequal. Can anyone who is against the apology sincerely say that Indigenous Australians have had the same opportunities for success as white Australians? Wealth creates wealth - when your grandparents worked damn hard as stockmen and house servants to be paid in sugar and tea it’s pretty hard to create an environment for your children to appreciate honest work! Its so sad to see this ignorance be perpetually cycled through the generations. It’s time for us to look at our kiwi cousins over the tasman to see the steps they have already taken to reconcilation. There are still problems over there however in general kiwis are proud of their indigenous history and culture and value their input in how their country should be run. They have made a treaty and said their apology many many years ago. What is it about this country that we cannot acknowledge that there is a problem and we need to fix it now? Kimberley of Brisbane 12:00pm Comment 265 of 424

Isn’t there research showing that Australia’s current day aboriginals weren’t the first humans here? That they themselves emigrated here over a land bridge and wiped out a nation of people that were living here prior to their arrival? John 12:02pm Comment 266 of 424

Why not giving them the money but no more on the doll? Monte of Sydney 12:04pm Comment 267 of 424

Isn’t it interesting how, for all those years, Howard refused to apologise because said apology may open up the government to further compensation claims, and the pro-apology camp claimed no end that it was the principle of the thing, that it wasn’t about money, that it was about recognition. And now that Rudd’s apologising, the immediate response is "what, no money?" Didn’t see that one coming, did we? Tane of Perth 12:04pm Comment 268 of 424

Rudd who are these people you are saying sorry to? What are their names? Where did they end up? Are they still alive? How many were there? You shout about your ‘education revolution’ for a better future so what you’re saying is how dare that goverment think they had made the right descision by giving aboriginal children better living conditions and an education? Oh my God, how terrible! Rudd you are simply a hipocryte and a brown tongue. Dan of NSW 12:05pm Comment 269 of 424

There’s a lot of people here willing to say ‘but we were better off removing them’ - but they don’t seem willing to let each case be examined individually in a court of law! If somebody was removed from an abusive family and benefitted from it - no compensation. If somebody was removed from their family and culture and suffered emotionally or physically from it - then they should get the compensation they deserve! John of Perth is spot on. Steely Dan of Brisbane 12:05pm Comment 270 of 424

I’m sorry about what happened 200 years ago… and I’m sorry that the Australian government screwed the Aboriginal’s over for years after that. But it’s not time to start handing out more money; it’s time to start working together at making all Australians equal. And equality should NOT mean that some people get paid more money just because they are a different race. We all live in the same country regardless of whether we were here 40,000years ago or whether we immigrated 12months ago!! courtney of melbourne 12:06pm Comment 271 of 424

What a good Idea ! Some bloggers are suggesting an Aboriginal (or group of Aboriginals) as the head of State such as the Govenor Generals position (or several seats in the Senate) …fantastic idea. Money and Power is what these people need to bring them into the 21st Century…thats the truth of it…. Nothing less will work and we all know it, but the white community are too selfish to do the right thing….to compensate them for what is not ours too keep and never will be. Sawtell of Perth 12:06pm Comment 272 of 424

Ahhh I can always rely on these types of topics to give me my laugh for the day. Reading all the ridiculously naive posts from the usual apologists made me laugh. Again, these children were ’stolen’ from what? A life of sexual abuse, crime, poverty, alcohol abuse, incest… the list goes on. Eric of Brisbane 12:06pm Comment 273 of 424

It is clear that Labour has learnt nothing from their last time in power, where their last tenure was riddled with symbolism and tokenism, that did nothing to fix the actual problems. The public have clearly forgotten this as well. John Kennard of Bathurst 12:08pm Comment 274 of 424

Oh please. Olive branch, whatever. The whole entire stolen generation claims here in Australia only ’surfaced’ immediately following the Canadian Government creating a billion dollar fund for their indigenous people. This is and has always been a money grab by legal ambulance chasers. A formal apology just gives the claims some weight and opens the door for litigation. Dan of Brisbane 12:09pm Comment 275 of 424

"Give them the apology… but how about putting our tax dollars towards something useful for everyone… " Jessica of Sydney, making policy that ends the culture of welfare dependence and crime in so many indigenous communities WILL help everyone - even if it costs billions of dollars! Think of how much money the govt would save long-term if indigenous health, incarceration rates and employment was at the same level as non-indigenous Australians! Steely Dan of Brisbane 12:10pm Comment 276 of 424

I dont have a problem with saying sorry and if its money they want give it to them by way of education/housing, not cash…we all know what will happen..they will spend the cash and then be crying poor after its all gone..just pay for their education/medical/create jobs in their communities..thats the only thing that I think will work…or even better ask them what they want and try to accomodate them that way.. nicole 12:12pm Comment 277 of 424

Services to Indigenous people , not money will help the situation . The apology from and on behalf of the government is the right thing to do. But money isnt going to rectify anything. pat of perth 12:12pm Comment 278 of 424

How about an apology from those social workers who consequently had that poor girl gang raped by sending her back to her community because they were afraid of creating "another stolen generation"? I wonder how "sorry" they are? Ben of Perth 12:13pm Comment 279 of 424

The stolen generation were not removed from their mothers because they were ‘at risk’ the sole selection criteria were half caste children. Those of you who still seem to think we were doing the right thing are badly uninformed. Others seem to think we are apologising for something that happened 200 years ago and this had nothing to do with the current generation. It might pay to do a little research on when this occured and what actually happened before you start shooting your mouth off. It may not be my fault but as an Australian I feel disgraced that WE did this, and I take responsibility for trying to help my fellow Australians. Andrew 12:13pm Comment 280 of 424

Rachel of melbourne, They visit their Aboriginal families in Nowra and Alice Springs several times a year,And have taken us with them, they know more about their ancestory than you do, and love telling people about it. But they also know they have to make a living to give their children a good happy and healthy life. It’s not about forgetting where they came from, but it’s about standing on their own two feet and having enough respect for themsleves to not be held to what society says they should be. Are you saying because their black they should go and live on the land?? I’m all for saying sorry and even giving them money, but let’s give it to those that need it, to help them have some respect for them selves, instead of being victems their whole life. Jack 12:15pm Comment 281 of 424

Compensation money could well be incredibly destructive if handed out on an individual level having said monies granted for Health care / Housing / Welfare / Education ect at a group level has also been colossal failure , $$ wont fix anything.  oilsaintoils of Perth 12:16pm Comment 282 of 424

The point of the apology to me is to recognise what the past government has imposed on the Indigenous people of Australia. In relation to comment 214, please read up and learn about Australia’s true history, you obviously have no idea what the government has done to the Aboriginal people of Australia. Did you not know that children where forcibly removed by the government because they deemed our race inferior and wanted to breed us out such as the Assimilation Policy was introduced to exterminate the Aboriginal race?! Did you not know that Aboriginal children weren’t neglected by their parents, but the government made that up as an excuse to remove children. Exclusion on Demand Policy, Clean Clad & Courteous, Vagrant Act, the list goes on. NOT TO MENTION THAT WE WERE UNDER THE FLORA AND FAUNA ACT!! I studied this for 3 years and have extensive knowledge of what Australias true history is made up of, so please, stop being ignorant. So don’t dare to make comments that they have no idea about, read up and learn before making ridiculous statements. Comment 227 are you serious?! Thankyou for what? Our culture survived 50,000 years prior to invasion! Our health was great until Europeans illegally came to this great country of ours! Thanks for what? Thanks for raping our women, thanks for stealing our children, thanks for stealing our land, thanks for introducing diseases and killing our people, thanks for all the massacres, thanks for the racist acts and policies introduced by the government! Get a life! I wonder why some Aboriginal communities are the way they are today, because of all the crap that we have had to put up with since 1788! And i dont get free handouts, so stop the notion of that ALL Aboriginal people get everything, it is not true! Kristy of Newcastle 12:19pm Comment 283 of 424

Who is honestly surprised. Rudd and cohorts said what they needed to say to grab power and this is another example of the naivete they assume their voters have. Melb Boy 12:24pm Comment 284 of 424

John (208) No, there’s not a scrap of evidence to support your claim. Did you hear that on Today Tonight? Will of Balmain 12:24pm Comment 285 of 424

Rudds govt is just one big SORRY fest…sorry for this, sorry for that…what about a forward apology because we are about to screw up the future of Australia…AHHH….Australia has made a big mistake by voting Labor in..makes me sick… Vaness of Sydney 12:25pm Comment 286 of 424

i think the issue people have with compensation for the indigenous peoples is that they are recieving so much allready but we have this point of view because all we see are those that litter redfern (not all just a couple) and cause problems in the area, but what about those communities in the outback they are not recieving these benifits they are suffering the only problem if we give them money what do they do with it, if they havent been to school how can they be educated enough to use the money within weeks of compensation being paid it will be used up. we should not pay a compensation but do invest a lot more into these communities. Geoff of Sydney 12:26pm Comment 287 of 424

Mr Rudd, my fiance is not an aboriginal, yet she was forcibly taken away from her biological parents at birth. She is now 37. Can you please advise when she will be receiving an apology and how much compensation she will be entitled to? Bob of North Ryde 12:26pm Comment 288 of 424

Jo, comment 150. Who said anything about happiness? Until we have achieved "A country should (that can) be measured by the life of its lowest citizens. If we raise this life up, we set a benchmark for our society." Martin of Canberra Comment 169. I don’t think any of us has the right to expect ‘happiness’. We may have the (Amercian concept) of the right to pursue happiness, but not at the expense of its being obtained on the back of someone else’s misery. Isabel Storey of Norseman 12:29pm Comment 289 of 424

To Andrew 12:13pm today Comment 275 of 275. Good post Andrew and spot on. I also am disgraced at all of the other DOCS interventions that have gone wrong or the ones where they should have intervened but haven’t. Why say sorry to one group when so many others have been affeted by similar injustices? Allan of Gold Coast 12:29pm Comment 290 of 424

These people have to face facts that they were conquered, Like the Romans who conqured, like when europeans were living in tribal factions much like the aboriginals, because of that when had been assimilated, I took along time but it happened. Just think, I not the english, who else would have taken this continent?, how would they be? Face the facts you land was taken, It happened out of your time, dry your eyes and stop complaining and instead of making problems for your self. People got to realise that thousands of years of thinking has changed in this last few decades. The human race isn’t going to change over night, but its getting there. Merick of Brisbane 12:31pm Comment 291 of 424

All John ever wanted to do was hand out money for everything, He wouldnt say sorry etc etc…. I think saying sorry is much better than just handing out more money, We all know money dont even solve money problems, If you have 20k worth of bills and someone gives you 20k your be back with 20k worth of bills in under 2 years.. Its time to move on, anyone that wants money for something thats in the past dont even desevre the sorry thats going to be givin to them. Ashley of Tas 12:32pm Comment 292 of 424

I say pay the compensation but with a devined figure, no more and no less. Then scrap every extra benefit that the government gives them. e.g a quick 10 min search on the internet revealed that indigenous people get: Home loans at 4.5% with a tailored payment plan to meet their income, free TAFE Courses, Employers get $4400 per year for employing indigenous people full time, they get compensation in the form of money or work from companies that have land that falls within native title claims, not to mention the repayment scheme for stolen wages and welfare entitlements and the trust fund repayment scheme. I havent even got to abstudy and the payments that parents get for children that just turn up for 1/3 of the school year. Just give them a billion dollars as it is just going to go straight back into the economy when they squander it and we will be saving billions per year of tax payers money from now on. g35 of melb 12:33pm Comment 293 of 424

To Kristy of Newcastle - comment 283 - Preach it sister!! Sarah of Melbourne 12:33pm Comment 294 of 424

Go and work for your money like the rest of us have to!!! Jamie of Gold Coast 12:34pm Comment 295 of 424

The greatest stories of human existence are ones where people give up something they cherish so that others may have a fair shot at life. You may not feel that sorry is nessecary but if you truly beleive that everyone deserves a fair go or a second chance then get off that high horse and show a little heart. Were living on their land, your disgusting comments are rubbing salt into a wound that has only had bandaid treatment for 200 years. No money or amount of healthcare and education will help here when at the heart of the problem is the rest of us to scared and protective of our perfect life to actually admit that saying sorry and offering an olive branch really only scares you because you may have to admit that you really do have issues with native australians even if it was never your personal fault. Its time to stand up and be counted, our current lives and homes have been built in some cases literally on the blood of their people. Its to easy to write comments on why they dont deserve sorry or compensation, the hard part is accepting that an injustice has been done and it may not be your personal fault but it takes a big person/nation to step in and try and fix it…. Brooke of Gold Coast 12:34pm Comment 296 of 424

Does anyone seriously believe that Aboriginals have been on this land for 60,000 years (or even close to that)? Of course they do - the gullible, the simple minded and the easily led. It’s nothing more than propaganda. No disrespect to them, I am not denying that Aboriginals have been here a very long time, but 60,000 years? Thats ridiculous. Ben of Perth 12:38pm Comment 297 of 424

Who really cares?? yes its sad about the stolen generation but move on! most country’s had white man come in a take over and to be honest its for the better! Im sick of hearing the Aborigines complaining about every little thing! move on and suck it up for Christ sake!!! Binga of Canberra 12:38pm Comment 298 of 424

So many experts on ‘the situation’ with so few facts! A current govt apologising for the hurtful practices of a past govt - not a problem. Mr and Mrs I’m-So-Aussie actually having the historical insight and emotional maturity to deal with it - a big problem. 99% of these posts reveal more about the anxieties of their whinging authors than the actual subject matter, which, of course, they haven’t bothered to research at all. In other words (dumbing it down for this audience), youse is talkin out yer arse! Juan of Warrnambool 12:38pm Comment 299 of 424

To Kristy of Newcastle 12:19pm today Comment 283 of 286. Kristy….all true but I think your list is a bit more wide and varied than what is being considered for the current apology. I don’t think (at least I hope) Rudd is not apologising for our existence and every indiscretion since colonisation. It was my understanding he intends to apologise for the policies that resulted in the 13,000 people identified as the stolen generation. Are you suggesting there are more apologies to follow? Will you formally accept the apology and forgive us?  Allan of Gold Coast 12:40pm Comment 300 of 424

I am fortunate enough to have now in my family a stolen generation man in his 70’s, he is an local elder that has told me he is grateful for being stolen, and given a prosperous life outside of the disgusting 3rd worl environment they call a mission. He was also given financial assistance in relocating his bio parents, many years ago, and surprise surprise, there all dead. Give them no money he says, they have been given way to much already, its time for equality on there part not special handouts…Say sorry yes, but thats it. The rest should go find a job. DANIEL of Nowra 12:40pm Comment 301 of 424

As a country, aren’t we getting a bit apology mad? Why are we demanding apology after apology from everyone for every reason imaginable? What does it mean for people to come and say sorry for this and sorry for that? Does it mean anything at all? Mark Lanigan-O’Keeffe of North Sydney 12:41pm Comment 302 of 424

Are you serious!!! Don’t you think we have said sorry enough??? It wasn’t Kevin Rudd that took the children away so why should we keep apoligising? Don’t give them any cash!!!! Natasha of Drummoyne 12:41pm Comment 303 of 424

to g35 of melb sorry to inform you but I am indigenous and I didn’t get a discount on my Home Loan.i really wish people would research more before takingon illinformed statement s to make us all look bad.Even if I could get it the discount rate I wouldn’t as I work jard to have what I do.Don not paint everyone with the same brush. DJ of Sydney 12:42pm Comment 304 of 424

I¿m a modern Australian, of part Aboriginal decent. I¿m proud of my Aboriginal Heritage, along with my Scottish and Irish heritage. I¿m married to an Asian woman, I¿m University Educated, and speak 2 languages other than English. I have lived in Asia, throughout Cambodia, the Philippines and Laos; I can honestly say that the views of some Anglo Australians towards indigenous Australians differ greatly to those of our Asian neighbours. They see the similarities of aboriginal culture to their own, and as something that should be celebrated and embraced in a country that is struggling to find a culture beyond jingoistic boganism. Jimmy of Sydney 12:45pm Comment 305 of 424

I don’t understand the racism present here. I am American living here now. I love Australia and the people are absolutely wonderful here. However, the racism is incredibly present here. Although everyone here hates America it seems, why not take a lesson from our history? I thank God everyday Martin Luther King, Jr., was born and did his mighty work. The Aborigenes are not free and they did not choose to be in their position. This apology is amazing. Incredibly wise and well thought. Once aborigenes are as free as the white Australians, everyone here can sing "Free at last, free at last, thank god almighty I’m free at last." There is no reason to think aborigenes are less than whites. M 12:46pm Comment 306 of 424

How dare kevin Rudd purport to apologise for me. I was not even born at the time, and I sure as hell didn’t vote for Rudd. For starters, the Government did what it thought was best practice at the time, and Hindsight is 20/20, but look at the full facts - yes, indigenous children were taken away from their parents, but so too were white children - removed from their mothers when their fathers left, or removed from their fathers when their mothers left or died. Where is the apology for THOSE Children? Rudd needs to give serious consideration to whom he apologises for, becuase he does NOT apologise for me, while I don’t agree with it, it is not responsibility of my generation. you know the one about the bridge? Yah, the past only serves to allow old wounds to fester. Nadia C 12:46pm Comment 307 of 424

I’m so tired of hearing about the lack of facilities in these remote communities. Everyone with half a brain knows there are no facilities out there because it’s remote. If I went and lived out in the bush in the middle of nowhere I wouldn’t have any facilities or jobs or services either. That’s why I don’t live there. Indigenous people have access to all of the services that I do and others as well. If they choose to live where these services aren’t then they will have to deal with it. Jim 12:47pm Comment 308 of 424

If you meet somebody who has just had a tragic happening in their life, don’t you say "sorry for your loss"? That doesn’t mean you are responsible. Also, let us be clear that the primary motive of Government for the Stolen Generations was "assimilation" - that is, annihilate a race of people; their culture; their language; and their beliefs. Some children were "given" by their mothers - after they had been lied to about what would happen. I know a great many people who are members of the Stolen Generation (or their descendants) and they don’t want money - they want recognition that what happened was wrong. Posted by: Jacqueline McGowan-Jones of WA 12:49pm Comment 309 of 424

thanks for the vote… gotcha. whatelsedoyothink of punk’d 12:49pm Comment 310 of 424

When I was a prison officer, I took every oppertunity to say "sorry", on national sorry day. So to every request they would recieve a sincere and heart felt "sorry" Richard Leeder of Perth 12:50pm Comment 311 of 424

im sorry im paying more and more taxes to this aboriginal funded corperations. ivan of hobart 12:51pm Comment 312 of 424

Well done Krudd, you are going to divide the country with another one of your brainless ideas. I’m not sorry, never will be and no one is going to tell me to be sorry. The aboriginies have had hundreds of millions thrown at them and it has all gone to waste. My care factor for them is zero! stan 12:53pm Comment 313 of 424

I don’t understand why cant England say sorry, they are the ones that came here and cause us this issue and made these rules. And we not an republic so I say let English tax payer pay for it not us, lot of people were force to come here anyway. Sarah Jones of sydney 12:56pm Comment 314 of 424

Kristy of Newcastle 12:19pm today Comment 283 of 294 I quote you, "I wonder why some Aboriginal communities are the way they are today, because of all the crap that we have had to put up with since 1788!" hahahahaha! You education level must have been at TAFE level. Your argument is like swiss cheese, full of holes. Keep Preachin it sister, only the undeducated will pay attention to your dribble! Royce of nsw 12:57pm Comment 315 of 424

It’s clear that Rudd is playing this card as a distraction, because they have no ability to lower interest rates, lower petrol and grocery pricing. The hollow words "Australian working families" are still ringing loudly in my ears, and we’ve all been sold out. Bob of QLD 12:58pm Comment 316 of 424

What ever happened to equality B.Ray of sydney 12:58pm Comment 317 of 424

Vaness of Sydney - how on earth can an apology to 2% of this country’s population ’screw up’ the future of this country? If you call yourself an Australian and pride yourself on what you call ‘Australian’ values please explain what is wrong in ensuring ALL Australians have equal opportunities to education, health, housing, jobs, social welfare. A few years ago there was a call for compensation from the catholic church for children who were abused by priests and an apology was demanded from the public. 50 years later were those children hearts mended from their sadness and shame? What is the difference here in making an apology for institutionalising these vulnerable children who’s sadness has taken a toll in their children and children’s children’s lives? Come on Australia! Enough is enough! Kimberley of Brisbane 1:01pm Comment 318 of 424

What a sorry man Kevin Rudd is. I think all those voters who put their tick in the Labor box should be saying sorry for being duped. Let’s Get Real 1:04pm Comment 319 of 424

I’m very happy with my assimilation thank you and just don’t feel the dreamtime. Mustn’t be black enough i guess. Hermano of Brisbane 1:05pm Comment 320 of 424

Vaness of Sydney 12:25pm today Dear Vaness, Get over it will you, the people have spoken, the Libs are dead ducks and will be for many many more years to come. Akio of Gold Coast 1:06pm Comment 321 of 424

Let’s gt things into perspective please: "EXTREME poverty is forcing Haiti’s poorest people to eat dirt. Mud cookies - made from dirt, salt and vegetable shortening - have become popular among Haitians desperate to stave off hunger, the Associated Press reports." Nan 1:08pm Comment 322 of 424

Merick of Brisbane comment 291. Missed that -when was war declared? When was it won? When did Aboriginal nations surrender? Ahah. Is this why people are so disgusting on this issue - because they have not won an honourable victory but instead have dishonourably stolen soemone else’s land for their own use? Now I know - redneck = subconscious guilt! Isabel Storey of Norseman 1:10pm Comment 323 of 424

This is ongoing political rubbish, especially by those after a cash compensation. When are the English going to demand an apology from the Normans for 1066? IanJ of Perth 1:10pm Comment 324 of 424

I don’t really know enough about the stolen generation to make a comment on whether or not the Government needs to apologise, but I am very glad that Rudd wont be speaking on behalf of the citizens of Australia nor will he be offering any money to the Aboriginal community. I believe the Aboriginal community receive more than enough benefits just for being Aboriginal, they do not need more money thrown at them to waste. I also wonder why it is always a thousand times worse if something happens to an Aboriginal, than if it happens to a white person. They want equality? So do I. Gareth of Sydney 1:10pm Comment 325 of 424

I am appalled at all the racist comments here. It appears that 1-2% of the population is more equal than the rest. paul 1:12pm Comment 326 of 424

In my wildest immagination, I cannot imagine the effect on me personally, if I had been forcibly removed from my family as a child. I try to understand - The many historical actions of previous Governments from all over the world, have been appalling(eg South Africa / Germany) and I cringe with shame at their actions towards fellow humans. But they all really did believe they were doing the right thing at the time. - sounds unbelievable - but true. How can money make it better ? The only people who will make money in the end will be the legal fraternity - so please NO MONEY CLAIMS - As an average Australia, I am sorry about our previous Governments Legislation and resulting actions, which resulted in so much pain and heartache to Australians. SORRY. judy simpson of kalgoorlie 1:12pm Comment 327 of 424

Lets break this down… get the apology out of the way (tick), nobody loses any money (tick), the indigenous community will be satisfied (tick), the world will applaud (tick) and we can start moving onto more important issues (tick)… just do it already and get this "sorry" mess off the radar. Bon Jupiter 1:15pm Comment 328 of 424

Are our future generation going to say sorry to those aboriginal kids being removed for their own safety due to sexual and other abuses by their families in Nth Queensland? Also, will our future generation have to pay for those affected aboriginals in NT when the troops were sent in to "save" them from their own kind? Sounds like somebodies are feathering their beds. Chris T of Melbourne 1:15pm Comment 329 of 424

Ben of Perth (297)- You really believe the gullible, the simple minded and the easily led espouse the view that Indigenous people may have been here for 60,000. Sorry, your ignorance is shining through. The time period indigenous people have existed in Australia has long been disputed however most academics agree that they have been here for at least 50,000 and up to 100,000 years. There is hard apolitcal, archaeological evidence to support this. It’s not lofty flat earth, noah’s ark type stuff, my friend. Jonathon of Hornsby 1:16pm Comment 330 of 424

Let’s get real (comment 319) since when do we tick ballot papers? maybe your vote didnt count! Josh of Perth 1:21pm Comment 331 of 424

Is there anything that isn’t rudds fault? I thought it after all, the Howard govt who bought, higher interest rates, petrol prices and record debt levels. This was on the agenda, he was voted in, what’s the problem? mandate 1:22pm Comment 332 of 424

To Jacqueline MacGowan #309 You said, "If you meet somebody who has just had a tragic happening in their life, don’t you say "sorry for your loss"? That doesn’t mean you are responsible." I agree. But then again, the person does not sue you for in excess of $1,000,000,00 either! That’s the problem here. Peter T. 1:23pm Comment 333 of 424

No one forces these people to live in 40 degree + temperatures in the middle of nowhere, They are entitled to move to anywhere in Australia, and receive the same education social services and opportunities that British, Italian, Aisian,Middle Eastern, African,American Canadian, South American, Indian, Indonesian, etc etc people of Australia have. They have the right to an Australian pasport and the right to vote and the right to work. On top of all this they have even more rights than any other Australian citizen,with special hunting and fishing rights and certain land rights and organisations that cater only for them. So please tell me what we have as a nation got to apologise for? I think we have bent over backwards trying to help a people who do not want to help themselves. I plead not guilty to any crimes against any people in the word and certainly dont owe an apology to anyone because I was born with white skin. Not Guilty of WA 1:24pm Comment 334 of 424

If you are aboriginal you would have the world on a silver platter with all the benefits received. All it takes is for them to get off their lazy behinds and find some work. Stop feeling sorry for yourself and become a productive member of the community. And to all the comments on here from aboriginal people, you are the exception not the rule. So good luck to you, I only wish that all aboriginals had the same motivation as we all have the EXACT same opportunities in life you just have to use them. lane of sydney 1:24pm Comment 335 of 424

In response to comment 315, Royce, amongst all the anger and rage i had in writing my comment i made that in regards to the state of some Indigenous communities due to all the other responses from various people stating in previous comments that Aboriginal people are no gooders, that all they do is drink and dont look after their children etc, We wouldn’t be in a state that we are today if the government didn’t impose such racist policies. Alcohol was introduced into this country, alcohol was given to our people for monetary value coz the government didn’t want to pay our people for the hard work that they did, and do you think that we haven’t put up with enough since 1788?? You obviously don’t have a clue of what Australia’s true history entails. Kristy 1:30pm Comment 336 of 424

I dont understand all the indignant and surprised comments on this issue.Kevin Rudd made no secret before the election that this was going to happen.But lets not politicise the issue and say Howard did nothing for 11 years.I didnt hear any apologies coming from Keating,Hawke or whitlam. hooks of nsw 1:30pm Comment 337 of 424

Stan (Comment 313), I’m no fan of Kevin, but if you had bothered to read the article you would have realised that the apology would be on behalf of the government, NOT on behalf of the people. Like you and many others here, I don’t believe I have anything to apologise for ( and certainly nothing to pay for), but as a symbolic gesture, and as long as it remains symbolic, and not as an admission of guilt, I can’t see what the problem is. Throwing money at them won’t build bridges, but maybe a bit of understanding will. Nick of Adelaide 1:32pm Comment 338 of 424

I think it’s naive to believe that the Government of 2008’s Sorry apology won’t open the floodgates for attempts to convert it into monetary compensation, which would have the potential to be individually frittered away. The best way out of poverty is through education and training. The communities would know how best to go about this. Imposing anything on the indigenous Australians has never worked. Anne McGown of Mornington peninsula 1:34pm Comment 339 of 424

A co-worker of mine many years ago said to me one day, "never apologize for anything, it’s a sign of weakness." Now, how many people have either heard, or said this quotation. I have never in all these years been able to justify or understand why anyone would believe to never apologize. I would really like to see, or for others to think about, a way forward and put all that is in the past, and leave it there. Anger, someone told me, turns inward, and the only person you are hurting is just yourself - because usually no one else cares anyway. Anyway, a way to move forward is my prime concern, after we all put our lack of toleration aside, because one of my church ministers said to me one day, life is all about toleration. Joe of Brisbane 1:36pm Comment 340 of 424

Land grab of WA, when are you going to lead the way and fly out? martyn of Laverton 1:36pm Comment 341 of 424

"If you are aboriginal you would have the world on a silver platter with all the benefits received." You also have a higher likelihood of physical, sexual and racial abuse, dying early and poor health. That’s why there is a difference in welfare payments.  Steely Dan of Brisbane 1:41pm Comment 342 of 424

I think I’ll chip in here and say to many of the people commenting here: Read the article first (or RTFA if you like). I have no problem with Mr Rudd making an apology if it is indeed on the terms that he stated; namely that it’s coming from the current government only, that’s it’s symbolic of a desire to address issues of inequality and is not a precursor to compensation payouts. I’m not prepared to make an apology of that sort but at least Mr Rudd is not suggesting that he will make one on my behalf. So stop with the squeaking about how unfair everything is and let’s do something about encouraging intelligent debate on the issues surrounding Australia’s indigenous population both in government an everywhere else. Let’s all try harder to understand our opinions, and more importantly why we have them. Des of Vic 1:43pm Comment 343 of 424

Not Guilty of WA 1:24pm today. Not all Aboriginals live in the desert you moron. Those who do are probably western desert people and have an cultural link to that area. Mate, I’m part aboriginal from the North Eastern NSW area. I make more money than the national average, and have travelled to many more countries than most Australians. Get off your self rightous high horse mate, and look at yourself before judging others. Have you travelled overseas? Have you even been to America? I’ve seen white americans living in much worse conditions than some of the aboriginal communities you detest. Sam of Sydney 1:43pm Comment 344 of 424

Dear Kristy of Newcastle. I agree with you that the atrocaties and injustices of the past are horrendous, inexcusable and must have been a great burden on the Aboriginal people back then, I, as a white middle class male, want to see positive Aboriginal role models, I want to see a lot of Aboriginal people stop feeling sorry for themselves, I want to see equality and opportunities presented to all Australians equally, the Aboriginal people cannot do this by being victims, take ownership, give yourself and your community the power to improve your lives. In this country everyone has the tools to make their life better, they just have to take ownership! Good luck! Shaun of Melbourne 1:43pm Comment 345 of 424

Not Guilty of WA - it’s not about personal guilt! It’s about the inheritors of the Commonwealth Government of Australia acknowledging the injustices, apologising on behalf of their predecessors and beginning the reconciliation process. Steely Dan of Brisbane 1:44pm Comment 346 of 424

Come of it Comment 324, the Norman conquest was 1000 years ago, where as the stolen generation was still happening during the 1960’s. A bit of a difference don’t you think? Plus if the French did offer up compo, it would be people like you who would be at the fron of the line. Forde Montgomery of Battery Point 1:45pm Comment 347 of 424

kirsty comment 283 please tell me where I can find a official copy of the Assimilation policy. Show everyone of whereis 1:45pm Comment 348 of 424

Going on a lot of these moronic,racist comments it appears a simple apology wont do a lot. For true reconciliation both parties must see each others side and come to terms with it,apologise and move on. Us anglo Australians must take responsibility for past injustices,in many cases our decendants committed them but as they are gone we must step up. This situation is required all over the world for example Japanese/Australia,Israeli and Palestinian etc.If reconciliation doesnt occur these problems fester fore ever. scott lewis of hobart 1:50pm Comment 349 of 424

Please come back Mr Howard!!! I miss you!!! Please take control over the government again so this country can be stable, just look its already starting to crumble, first Kyoto ($$$$ Gone) then scrapping WorkChoices ($$$$ and Employment Gone) and now this ($$$$ and common sense Gone) please Mr Howard heed my call and save this country. Terry of Nth Q 1:52pm Comment 350 of 424

Hi Kristy, I think you need a big glass of "get over it" Bel 1:54pm Comment 351 of 424

Lane comment 335, can you please reiterate to me why we have the world on a silver platter, what benefits are you talking about? I am Aboriginal, i am 23, i dont get any benefits and i never have, i have a uni degree, i have a full time job, i work extremely hard and am a productive member of society, and i give back to the community as well. I dont feel sorry for myself, and just like my ancestors i have struggled and i have survived and i am proud to be Aboriginal. KL of NSW 1:54pm Comment 352 of 424

Posted by: Kristy 1:30pm today Comment 336 of 339 ATSIC, elected Aboriginies, voted by aboriginies’ and advising Government for their issues. In 2003/04 it received 1.3 billion in funding, the total that year 2.8 billion spent by the government. And it was wound up due to misappropiation of funds, your own people screwed you over. let me guess, we forced you to drink and to missue the funds. Well then, you had the money, you wasted it 5 years ago, we’ll give it to you again, and history will repeat itself. Like the saying, "a leopard never changes its spots". Fact.  //www.aph.gov.au/library/pubs/CIB/2004-05/05cib04.htm. How’s my history Kristy, what spin will you place on this badboy of truth?  Royce of NSW of nsw 1:54pm Comment 353 of 424

This is ridiculas, all we need to do is learn from our past….looking back now we all agree that it was not a good idea, but the government at the time probably acted on good intentions to educate instead of seperate the aboriginal children so that they could have a future….this sorry notion will only divide the country further, or we could ask that all the aboriginies who obtained jobs from the education given to them pay back all their salary they have earned from it, before they ask for any compo….and there is probably alot more abuse going on in the aboriginal communities now than there ever was then…. Matthew James of Parra 1:58pm Comment 354 of 424

Reconciliation has to be a two way street - not just a grab for more cash and a chance for pollies to pat themselves on the back. Why not accept the apology but refuse financial compensation? Assuming a payout is made and the $ spent (wisely or otherwise), what happens next? Communities will still be dysfunctional and then there’ll be a demand for an apology and compensation from the next generation who WEREN’T rescued from these cesspits. Felix of The Real World 2:02pm Comment 355 of 424

Has anyone thought that if it was the Spanish that landed first and decided to settle there wouldn’t be an apology… it would have been complete genecide.. Yes earlier generations did terrible things.. however we were probably the best of a bad bunch!  Nopster of Sydeny 2:02pm Comment 356 of 424

Here are some sites that has info on past policies: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/special/rsjproject/rsjlibrary/rciadic/national/vol2/278.html http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/barani/themes/theme3.htm http://humanities.cqu.edu.au/abtorres/52144/stmats/chap11.htm http://www.goondir.com.au/history.htm

 

Kristy 2:03pm Comment 357 of 424

The ’stolen generation’ is set to recieve an apology and, so it seems, compensation, but how about the ‘forgotten generation,’ those indigenous families who were forced onto Missions and reserves. The ones who were ’stolen’ or is that ‘treasured,’ and ‘valued’ went on to find employment and acceptance in the wider community, but the ‘forgotten generation,’ ones with ‘darker skin’ still live in poverty today. Many of them were not stolen, but reserved, and now many live with chronic poverty and with dysfunction because of their past poverty and deprivation. The reserved populations were the forgotten, out of sight, out of mind generations, and in my mind are equally deserving of an apology! Tim of Perth 2:04pm Comment 358 of 424

I deal with refugees who come to this country from REAL poverty where welfare is not paid and wasted, housing not provided and trashed, schooling is not provided and left unattended. People who can’t speak a word of English but within years have made an effort to improve themselves and conmtribute to society. It’s time people stopped waiting for someone else to fix all their problems with a big cheque and show some initiative. We keep hearing about Aboriginal pride - how about showing some? Felix of The Real World 2:06pm Comment 359 of 424

Merrick (comment 291) Thats just crap what you are saying, I’ve been a hair dresser for two years and all I can say is you must be another george bush war monger. You don’t have to be a rock scientist to realise that we physically took the land off these people, and we should all give something back, we should all pay a third of our wages to these people for rent to this country. Who are these romans any way, From lord of the the rings or something? Shelly of Gold Coast 2:14pm Comment 360 of 424

To slightly digress, but it’s related to what people have been saying. A lot has been made of the fact that the new Rudd Govt has appeared to be still on the ‘L’ plates, with many saying we need to give them a break and give them time. Sorry (pardon the pun, or is it a simile?), but what have they been wasting their time doing (at taxpayers expense) while in opposition? You come into goverment presumably because you’re ready for it. If you have to learn about how government works when you get there, you weren’t ready in the first place. The Hawke Govt, in contrast, was ready to go from day 1. Likewise the Howard Govt. This crew seems to be all at sea, hoping that a few press releases will see them through until they can work out how the hell the ’system’ works. Or maybe they really don’t have any ideas of substance. A press conference does not a government make… Craig of Adelaide 2:16pm Comment 361 of 424

Before white, middle class, English speaking people starts putting their values or beliefs on the indigenous people of this country we should start by firstly listening to their grievances. For us to hear their stories, for us to start listen to the pain and anguish some of them have gone through, without prejudging or diminishing anything of what has happened to them. Compensation or apology without understanding is fruitless. Paul of Salisbury East 2:17pm Comment 362 of 424

All of us Europeans had ancestors who painted in caves and lived off the land. They were called cave men and existed 600,000 years ago. We put these ancestors and their cultures where they belong in a bloody museum, and moved on. If these Aborigini’s are to get anywhere in this modern world they are going to have to do the same. All this ranting and raving about some 600 000 year old culture is beyond me. Was not Canabalism and witchcraft human sacrifice also a culture in some past civilisations, should of we have preserved those practices also? Wars and conquests have shaped modern civilisation and you cant turn back time, the past cant be changed so forget it and move into the present and the future. Dont look back in Anger of WA 2:21pm Comment 363 of 424

Apologies or talk of them usually involve emotion of some kind. This reads like a business transaction and has been reported like one as well. Lou of Perth 2:21pm Comment 364 of 424

Posted info before with more sites, but not on there however, some Info on Assimilation policy: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/special/rsjproject/rsjlibrary/rciadic/national/vol2/278.html

 

Kristy 2:21pm Comment 365 of 424

Everyone keeps spouting this grand reconciliation process but no one has outlined what it exactly is. I believe it is just another catch phrase that the left wing and aboriginal activists use to justify the plight of aboriginals. I just can’t imagine how saying sorry will start any process or comfort anyone. Saying sorry is all about compensation. Steve of Perth 2:25pm Comment 366 of 424

What a disgrace. Kevin Rudd is clearly tapping into a known source of division for political games. The benefit is to him in terms of political points. That is all he cares about. Disgraceful of Australia 2:26pm Comment 367 of 424

I am part of an immigrant generation where most of my family were ‘killed’ by cross fire in a war, i lost most family connections, family history & have forgotten much of my native language. I joined up to fight in a war to avenge my loss but our allies left the fighting after a while & i witnessed slaughter again. Im here now, started from nothing, i had nothing, couldnt even speak the language & had no friends. Im not doing too bad now, sure i have scars but im healthy & have my own family. Im not sure what to make of the Stolen Generation but i wouldnt want to wish War on even my enemies, so maybe my story may help some people look at it with a different perspective. Genghis of Sydney 2:29pm Comment 368 of 424

So, all those that agree the Japanese government should not apologise for all the millions it raped, tortured and murdered in wartime atrocities it commited say I. Jez of Perth 2:36pm Comment 369 of 424

I was watching a news story a few weeks ago about the poverty of our aboriginal cousins. Yes they live in filth, and yes their accomodation is in a terrible state. Why is it so? They appear to live like animals. In this story I was watching, they filmed inside a filthy house but if you looked carefully you could see they had a lovely stainless steel oven and stove and very fancy appliances. The fact so many aborigines choose to disrespect this and smash things up, not clean things or use them incorrectly is hardly our fault. The story then panned to a group sitting in a huddle in the dirt, they wouldn’t think to bring out a chair…….. But in the background a nice Landcruiser Wagon, compliments of the taxpayer no doubt. How many hard working taxpayers would like the opportunity to own such a vehicle. Unfortunately it is beyond most of our financial grasps. I think we need to be careful in apportioning blame for the past and current behaviours of all groups involved. Sometimes it seems to me, certain groups won’t help themselves. As the old saying goes, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink". Disgruntled taxpayer of Toowoomba 2:38pm Comment 370 of 424

Show everyone - please refer to the 1961 Native Welfare Conference held between Commonwealth and State ministers who agreed on assimilation policies were the way to ensure the protections and rights enjoyed by white Australians were granted for Indigenous Australians. This policy was made with good intentions. However in practice it was a disaster. You can find information on this conference anywhere on the net. Prior to assimilation ‘protection’ was the policy - protection from what? From settlers land grabbing doing whatever they liked in those great expanses of space away from the eyes of the law. Smallpox blankets and sheer murder is what they were being protected from. Did it work? Well in practice ‘protection’ meant taking groups away from ancestral homelands, shoving them in missions where languages were lost, tribal enemies were now expected to be friends, kinship ties lost - which eventually lead to assimilation as a means to help correct the problems created by the protection policy. Kimberley of Brisbane 2:43pm Comment 371 of 424

Seems like Rudd is approaching this in the best possible way. The Aboriginals who have been fighting for this are doing so for recognition of what happened. The fact that no government has yet recognised that the Stolen gen incident was wrong is an atrocity. I really don’t see why so many are worried that there will be an influx of people demanding money. Is money going to change what happened to them any more than an apology? My hat goes off to Rudd for having the guts to approach the issue (And I didn’t even vote for the guy!) Chris of Brisbane 2:47pm Comment 372 of 424

Disgruntled taxpayer of Toowoomba. Comment 350. Well said! Dan of Brisbane 2:53pm Comment 373 of 424

Rudd can say sorry, I don’t care, as long as it doesn’t open the flood gates for compensation (find it hard to believe it won’t). If it does - Kevin can pay for it himself !!! Not Sorry of Sydney 2:54pm Comment 374 of 424

I spoke to a mate of mine who is a commercial lawyer today and asked him his take on this whole sorry debacle. He informed me that even if it was said in parliament there is still an extrapolation which in itself is quite technical but an admission of guilt regardless. This admission of guilt can then be turned into cash, and the terms of reference will be laughable at best. This means anyone that was removed from their parents can lodge a claim, just by saying that they think they are part aboriginal. Don’t believe me, ask a lawyer. The lack of records is astonishing, which is why Krudd will simply allow this rort to happen. For those saying it’s not about money; surely you can’t be that dumb? 3 weeks ago this was front page news and there were already a number of aboriginals talking about compensation. Perhaps the selective memories of the ultra left what got Krudd elected in the first place. Blampa of Springfield 2:55pm Comment 375 of 424

Stolen generation, well maybe for those who failed to make anything of it or were placed poorly.. my wofes greta uncle passed recently as was adopted into her family as an indigenous person. She asked him had he any regrets about it he said eye to eye, " I thank god every day i was adopted,.. look at my people and what they have become under their own leadership" this man died a wealthy WA pastoralist and the first indgenous multimillionaire landholder in WA. so take that. Steve K of Perth 3:02pm Comment 376 of 424

Kimberley of Brisbane how can 2% of the National population make up 50% of our prison population? Ryan of Perth 3:02pm Comment 377 of 424

i dont think that the Kevin rudd should speak on behalf of all australians in this case, white children were taken from their families if they were in a hostile position aswel. im not sorry. PETRINA of melbourne 3:06pm Comment 378 of 424

I say "Well done PM Rudd" this was made a divisive issue under Howard as he strove to marginalise and segregate Australians. An apology, on behalf of the government, will go a long way towards helping the situation with indigenous people. They feel very agrieved, and with some justification, and it seems that an apology will help.  Steve of Parramatta 3:07pm Comment 379 of 424

Any apology needs to recognise that not everything that was done was bad or incorrect… in some cases it was the right course of action. And also that in most times people tried to do stuff with the best of intentions (but not everytime!) As long as thats acknowledged then it will be positive for all. Otherwise I can see a real backlash against the indigenous folk that will have real ramifications for many years.  Woody 3:08pm Comment 380 of 424

To Disgruntled taxpayer of Toowoomba - was the house in Townsville by any chance? We rented a brand new house (our first and only property) to an aboriginal family and the mess they made of it was absolutely diabolical. Such apalling disrespect. Not only that, but we were lied to about the number of people (and animals!) living in the house and for the entire term of the lease the rent was never paid up to date (let alone in advance!), not even once. The only consolation I take from the experience is that the damage wasn’t malicious, that’s just how they chose to live. The worst part about this is that my family doesn’t live in a nice new house, rather a 40-year old unrenovated flat. We always pay our rent a month ahead (we don’t get any rent assistance from anybody) and we look after the place as if it was our very own. Why can’t I be in a minority group that gets handouts and apologies?? Kristina 3:11pm Comment 381 of 424

Can anybody explain to me (I am a migrant) why the part-aboriginal people (most of the activists seem to be part aboriginals, some very little part) call themselves aboriginals and not whites? Is it because of the extra priviledges and money they get as aboriginals, compared to the rest of us whites, grossly discriminated against in our own Australia? Dan L of WA 3:12pm Comment 382 of 424

Disgruntled taxpayer of Toowoomba (comment 350), you’re guessing about the whole scenario! All your post confirms is that - like many of the troubled souls below - you jump to conclusions based on a grab bag of random thoughts which have no basis in reality. "It seems", "no doubt", an oven, a chair? Don’t try to understand, just judge yourself up a storm! So easy! You’re better than them - hooray!! Pat yourself on the back and ease back into your Jason recliner perched on stolen land. TV can lead you to thought, but it can’t make you think. Juan of Warrnambool 3:14pm Comment 383 of 424

Sorry for what? Australia tried to help the Aborigines. I guess they dont want it. So why does the government still give them everything?  AH of Vic 3:14pm Comment 384 of 424

Perhaps once we say sorry, the ‘ordinary white Australian’ will want a ’sorry for saying sorry’. Then the Aboriginal community will want a ’sorry for saying sorry about saying sorry’. And so on. Let’s just get on with it. I love you all. We’re all Aussies! Best nation in the world!   sorry 3:15pm Comment 385 of 424

How can we ever have reconciliation if both parties are treated differently financially? There are heaps of grants and allowances for aboriginals, but you would be incredibly racist if you offered a job, loan, grant etc on the condition that you WERE NOT aboriginal. Imagine too if all citizens were treated the same by the courts. Can’t imagine any pollie being brave enough to do that!! Frances of perth 3:19pm Comment 386 of 424

Shelly of Gold Coast. They do not own Australia. It is not like that, and if you think so, then you can feel free to donate 1/3 of your wage to an Aborigine Charity. of course, i bet you will not do that would you? No, that would actually be backing up your word. I love your type that say sooo much, but in reality do nothing. At least the people here who are actually saying that is whole sorry thing is what it is, a load of crap, ar not scared to say what they truely think. So, until you are donating 1/3 of your pay packet each week, as you suggested should be done, you really have no leg to stand on. Once again, this is not THIER land anymore. They have history here for sure, but that does not entitle ownership. Get over yourself. Adrian of Gold Coast 3:25pm Comment 387 of 424

You know what makes me laugh, you have alot of people who don’t know what they talking about. For instance Shelly of Gold Coast, You cut hair…..WTF? I live in darwin, and unless you have been here, Nth QLD, WA or SA, you opinion means, hardly anything. Trust me, you’ll have a good culture shock! Marko of Darwin 3:26pm Comment 388 of 424

Chris of Brisbane Comment 367 "Is money going to change what happened to them any more than an apology? My hat goes off to Rudd for having the guts to approach the issue" No, money will make no difference, as has been shown in the past. However, they’ll still want it. Rudd better cover himself well on this, and make sure he speaks only for himself. RJ of Sydney 3:29pm Comment 389 of 424

If this results in billions in compensation from the taxpayers whether by direct payment fromthe government or through the courts, you can bet your bottom taxpayers dollar that it will be the end of this L plate foolhardy PM and his government. GG to dismiss the Government again. 3:30pm Comment 390 of 424

I wish you bogan idiots would just shut up. Seriously. All of your arguments are obvious attempts at disguising what is clearly blatant racism. All of these cavemen arguments are bunk. South east Asians who still eat with their hands, and resist westernization, are they cavemen too. Travel the world and propose your views on non-english speaking cultures and gage the reaction you will get. Idiots. Sam of Sydney 3:31pm Comment 391 of 424

So, okay, say the apology is given….then what? Are things going to go back to the way they were? Are the majority of the indigenous people of this country living in city area still going to relying on government handouts, or are they going to join the rest of normal society and get educated and finally get a damn job. Sorry is just a word, unless they do something about it and join the rest of the workforce, that’s all it ever will be. Paul of Surry Hills 3:32pm Comment 392 of 424

How can anyone possibly demand an apology for the Aborigines without also demanding an apology for every other conquered group throughout history? John Black of Brisbane 3:32pm Comment 393 of 424

Dan L - Numerous reasons. First reason is Aboriginality is not defined by your skin colour - it’s your culture, it’s ‘technically’ if you are considered by elders as being Aboriginal. Secondly there aren’t that many full bloods anymore. Marriage laws, stolen generation and other policies were designed to ensure Kooris assimilate into white society as they thought this was a better way - however they created a society of children who couldn’t fit in with either culture. Kimberley of Brisbane 3:33pm Comment 394 of 424

What a positive step by Kevin Rudd and a step in the right direction to reconciliation. I claim myself to be Murry (aboriginal person for those who don’t know). Not all of us want compensation!! I don’t believe it will solve anything but encourage the mainstream to abuse us evenmore. I must say for the radicals consider the racism that us Murry’s working in mainstream will need to face. Can’t we do things positively without any backlash but encouragement. Deej of Cairns 3:34pm Comment 395 of 424

Well done KRUDD, divert attention away from rising interest rates, spiralling petrol costs, health system in crisis,home ownership floundering, where do l stop. How about getting on governing the country for everybody and addressing issues that effect the people out their working their guts out to survive each week. We are sick of watching our money being wasted. Thats right Mr KRUDD OUR MONEY. Jay of Sydney 3:34pm Comment 396 of 424

I love these clueless white people who are scratching their heads wondering why Aboriginal people won’t adopt their way of life. Such arrogance, as per usual.  Catherine M of Sydney 3:35pm Comment 397 of 424

How about we add up all the $$$$ we have given to the indigenous communities over the many years and call it even. For all the "good" it has done just to tip more into the indigenous communities it seems it won’t do any good at all. Bouncing Bunny of Sydney 3:36pm Comment 398 of 424

Well if you don’t want Kevin to apologise for you, I suggest you email him and let him know how you feel - don’t just put it here. Go to www.pm.gov.au and follow the ‘contact the Prime Minister’ tabs. Maybe he just might get the message. Keith of Sydney 3:39pm Comment 399 of 424

Shelley of gold coast, Why dont you do your part and go tidy up all the Aborigines hair, they always look messy! And paying a third of our wages to them??? You idiot, as a hair dresser you wouldn’t be paying much! Definatly not SORRY of Vic 3:39pm Comment 400 of 424

You can spin anything to suit an argument Kristy. So what was to become of these half caste kids Kristy hey? It was either leave them in traditional Aboriginal society unconcerned about their welfare or try to make the transition to a more productive life in the mainstream and yes I did say more productive life! If you want to go back to running around naked, living off the land and spearing Kangaroos there is more than enough land put aside for this purpose. Unless you can determine who these stolen generation people are this whole apology business is furphy. Hilly 3:43pm Comment 401 of 424

The Aboriginies need to read history books. Half of the Earth was conquered by the British Empire. Tough. Tthey lost their land - get over it. They were lucky to survive. Its the law of the jungle. Every nation has been conquered at some point in time. Deal with it and thank the gods that you were not put to the sword. Bruce Nesbitt 3:44pm Comment 402 of 424

Dan L of WA. are you an idiot? (Phrasing something as a question doesn’t mean your comments are immune to criticism). Firstly, this statement ¿extra priviledges (sic) and money they get as aboriginals, compared to the rest of us whites¿ is a myth indigenous people do not get extra privileges, in fact they are the most marginalised people in our community. Secondly, why would someone just denounce part of who they are just because it makes up a smaller percentage of their ¿blood¿? A lot people like the idea of knowing where they come from and would like to find out more about their ancestors and history. Even more so, people who are only ¿partly¿ aboriginal should identify themselves with being Aboriginal to ensure their rich culture doesn¿t completely die out. vicky 3:45pm Comment 403 of 424

I think what is missing from the discussions on this page and something that seems to be forgotten. The Catholic church played a big roll in the stolen generation. I believe it is with their insistence (at the time) that a stolen generation took place. Rob r Charteris of Casino 3:45pm Comment 404 of 424

Ryan of Perth Comment 377. Check out the stats Kimberley is right Aborigines make up 2.3% of the total population but make up around 45% of the prison population. Doesn’t make sense but it is true. Peter of ACT 3:49pm Comment 405 of 424

Great, just what we need, more social division so a politician can secure a few more votes. He should be ashamed as all he clearly wishes to do is capitalise on a known source of division for his own short term political gain. Marc of Brisbane 3:50pm Comment 406 of 424

Shelly of Gold Coast .. So, being a hairdresser of 2 years makes one a specialist in anthropology (rock scientist), will another 2 years make you a rocket scientist? obviously you know little of history, I would like the indiginous to pay us back 1/3 of the $millions they have wasted that we have given them over the years. bo of brissy 3:50pm Comment 407 of 424

To Shelly of Gold Coast (comment 360). What a load of crap. As history shows, the Aborigines came here just the rest of us … earlier obvioulsy … which means that they too are not native. And just as Adrian of Gold Coast said, if and when you fork over 1/3 of your pay each and every week then, and only then, can you make such a ridiculous statement like that and expect others do the same!!! Ali of Bris 3:51pm Comment 408 of 424

To Adrian from the Gold Coast. As a proud NSW Indigenous Australian you need to realise and respect that this is and will ALWAYS be Aboriginal Land! Regardless of who is here now. Our people, the aboriginal people of Australia, represent the oldest continuing culture in human history!! I think it is about time that we are given the respect that we truly deserve here in our own country. We are still standing and won’t be going anywhere any time soon. We are true survivors! Ann McDermott of Melbourne 3:54pm Comment 409 of 424

Bruce Nesbitt- ah, just when we thought it was a thing of the past, social darwinism is back to haunt us…If you read the history books you speak of, you would know it’s a redundant concept. As for your "get over it" approach, I’m sure you would demonstrate the same attitude if I came around to your house and murdered your family before your eyes. Such was the experience of many indigenous people.  Matthew of Sydney 3:55pm Comment 410 of 424

Taken from parents, the "carers "and fellow kids abused and sexually abused this stolen generations. Substandard schooling until 12y/o. - do that to 1000 non-indigenous Australians and listen! Why are Australians such tight wads? give the stolen generation some money for their troubles, a house or something, they lost more than just a family, they lost near everything that defines a person! Jeff 4:00pm Comment 411 of 424

These wonderful people should never, never have to work after what they have been through. We owe them everything - the very shirts off our backs and our indeed our lives, Surely people would at least agree with that? Jeff Mitchell of Prahan 4:07pm Comment 412 of 424

I think what happened all those generations ago to the "Stolen Generation" was an awful thing, but the generations since that are simply "milking it". I have been to Aboriginal communities in Far North Queensland and seen what is offered to the Aboriginal people and how they don’t care about it, they simply take it for granted they get homes, cars and money for nothing as well as education and offers of work training, not like the rest of us who work very hard to get those things. When they trash their houses the government pay to have everything fixed. So really saying sorry won’t change anything, how about equality start treating everyone white and black the same, work and save money to buy things don’t wait for compensation or a handout. D of Cairns 4:09pm Comment 413 of 424

I have nothing more to add except I agree completely with Hilly (comment 401), comment 398 to name a few. The govt can say sorry and then move on. Without wanting to sound heartless, but it’s time to move on and get over it. nothing more to do 4:11pm Comment 414 of 424

Vickey - Comment 403 "indigenous people do not get extra privileges, in fact they are the most marginalised people in our community." Keep your head in the sand fool. Who are you kidding? lane of sydney 4:11pm Comment 415 of 424

I read all these comments and I’m very disappointed in my fellow Australians. Is it really true that our great land down under is overrun with bigots and racists? Where is the empathy? Where is the understanding? Where is the compassion? Very disappointing. Disappointed in Aussies of Australia 4:11pm Comment 416 of 424

Ryan, if you destroy another culture it’s no surprise they will eventually be overrepresented in the prison system for a variety of reasons. Having a police force that has been proven to be racist countless times doesn’t help either. Matthew of Sydney 4:13pm Comment 417 of 424

I’m a proud Aussie, this is my country, but I can’t stand this redneck jingoistic crap these bogan yobbos keep pushing. Aboriginal culture, is that a culture. What does the Australian Anglo-saxon have to offer, that is culturally original? Meat pies? Nope. Vegemite? Nah. Thongs? No. Cricket? I’m afraid not. Sam of Sydney 4:14pm Comment 418 of 424

I don’t know whether to yawn or vomit. Not only are the racist comments on here absolutely sickening, they’re also getting frightfully boring. If people could stick to the topic rather than saying disgusting things about Indigenous Australians (particularly those who have clearly not met any), it would be a wonderful change. Oh, and btw, people keep on referring to Abstudy (how is that relevant?) but I wonder if they have ever heard of "Austudy" or "Youth Allowance". Pull ya heads in, and be thankful that we finally have a true "Leader" in this country. Celeste of Melbourne 4:18pm Comment 419 of 424

I’ve had the pleasure of being friends with a member of the stolen generation, and she was a wonderful woman. She died a few years ago, at a relatively young age as many aboriginals do, and it was a shame. She lived a terrible life, physically & emotionally, never being totally able to bridge the cultural gap, and suffering for it in a number of ways. I was not aware of the extent or outcomes of the stolen generation until I met this lady, and I felt ashamed that I knew little of these atrocities that occurred in my own country. Judging by the postings here, there are a lot more out there who have a distorted view over what went on. When we can acknowledge this horrible event and apologise for it, maybe then it won’t be as taboo and secret a subject and maybe it might even taught to our kids with factual accuracy and compassion. rob of adelaide 4:19pm Comment 420 of 424

I am all for a national apology. I think an aboriginal representative should also reply ‘we forgive’. Dan Sheikh of Perth 4:19pm Comment 421 of 424

Ryan of Perth - Yeah I agree. Indigenous people are way over represented in the justice system. The figures aren’t 50% though - they only make up 22 % (2005 figures) It’s another symptom of generations of neglect and institutionalisation. Also you can’t ignore the fact that Indigenous people are more likely to be pushed through the justice system instead of receiving lighter punishment and bail. For example Indigenous kids are 20 times more likely to be detained than non Indigenous kids. 60% of Indigenous in-mates are illiterate too - this is a common trait amongst non Indigenous inmates too. Reasons go on but I agree yes… well over represented.  Kimberley of Brisbane 4:23pm Comment 422 of 424

In WA, many aborigines are benefiting from the mining boom. The latest craze is to explore large tracts of land and offer incentives to aboriginal native title owners if mineral deposits are discovered. On top of that, the amount of indigineous employment programs underway from mining companies with resource projects in the pipeline is huge. The opportunities to the modern day aboriginal are the best they have ever been. For a hard working aboriginal person in outback WA, the rewards are there. Travis of Perth 4:24pm Comment 423 of 424

Kev can feel sorry and apologise for himself, but not for me. I did nothing wrong when I imigrated out here and have strugged since to make a living out here. I haven’t put my hand into someone elses’s pocket like most of the Aborigines appear to be doing. Maybe one day they will get some self respect and become true citizens of this country. not sorry kev of Sydney 4:26pm Comment 424 of 424

so there you have a range of perspectives from the punters of Australia. In essence the core of the issue, saying sorry is not a business transaction. It is the uttering of an acceptance of the nation’s past.

AN APOLOGY to the Stolen Generations should be addressed to more than just those people who were removed, should refer to the removal of Idigenous children under modern-day laws, and should consider white foster parents not told about where children in their care had come from and the basis of the removal and seperation.

These are some of the suggestions that victims of policies of forced removal up until 1970 made to the Federal Government in a confidential document.

It also outlined requests that victims be allowed to tell their stories as part of the formal apology and that a national day be declared for an annual restatement of the apology.

The report, prepared by the Stolen Generations Alliance, which represents victims of forced, race-based removal Australia-wide, says the single most important element victims want to hear in the apology is "sorry".

But it adds that other words requested included stolen, cruel, discriminatory, wrong, inhumane, trauma, inter-generational impacts and genocide. Several people asked that there was no mention of guilt or blame.

One person suggested that the "good intentions" underlying many removals be acknowledged.

The wording, the report argues, must also give specific recognition to:

■ The prevailing attitudes that encouraged governments to enact discriminatory legislation.

■ The many removals that were not legal under child welfare laws.

■ The often appalling conditions in children’s institutions.

■ "Inter-generational effects and the often catastrophic physical and mental health that resulted."

The report says an overwhelming majority of victims want the apology addressed not just to those forcibly removed under policies of assimilation prior to 1970, but to "members of the Stolen Generations, their descendants, the families left behind and the communities that were torn apart by child removals".

Some victims argued that the apology should address every Indigenous person in Australia because "we have all had something stolen from us".

Many of those canvassed also wanted their experiences acknowledged in primary and secondary school curriculums and in training for all professionals who work with indigenous people.

On Feb 1, 2008 the first Stolen Generation person to be given compensation has been awarded another $250,000 by a South Australian court.  Bruce Trevorrow was awarded $525,000 in compensation in August last year after a South Australian judge ruled the state falsely imprisoned him as a child and owed him a duty of care for pain and suffering.  Lawyers for Mr Trevorrow then returned to court seeking 50 years of interest on the compensation payment. The lawyers argued Mr Trevorrow should receive an extra $800,000 but the SA Supreme Court awarded him $250,000 in interest.

A work in progress…

The ‘Arctic Monkeys’ are an internet phenomenon. They played their first gig in June 2003; soon after they started burning demo recordings onto CDs to give away at gigs. Then fans began to rip the music onto computers and share it amongst friends.

The band later admitted that they did not know how to get their songs onto the Internet. When questioned about the popularity of their MySpace site, they said that they did not even know what MySpace was and that the site had originally been created by fans.

They grew in popularity, receiving attention from British media. A photographer filmed the band’s performances and published a music video on his web-site, alongside with some of the band’s songs.

In 2005, they released their first EP, a limited run of 500 CDs and 1000 7" records; however, it was also made available for downloading from iTunes.

The band resisted signing to a record label and the success of this strategy was demonstrated by a series of sell-out gigs across the UK.

Will the music industry survive? This is is one of the critical questions that faces the big players in the industry.

It seems that the corporate organisations who have controlled the distribution of music are in decline. Ten years ago, six companies held 77 percent of recorded music sales globally. Now, those six are down to four – Universal (31%), Sony-BMG (25%), Warner (15%) and EMI (9.5%). It looks like they have not got a handle on internet revolution’s impact on their an industry they have dominanated for most of the last century.

In the first half of 2007 the US (the world’s biggest marketplace) saw CD sales slump by 19% and Warner Music has lost 72% of its peak share value. After years of being screwed by the industry high-profile artists are starting to jump ship.  Music consumers are going to the internet and pop idols emerge from TV games shows rather than from the music establishment. EMI’s best assets are its publishing and past copyrights and Radiohead has a pay-what-you-like website.

In the last decade it all went pear shaped in a way that can be best descibed by two events. 

In 1997 the first internet tsunami was felt and record companies tried to play Moses; the waters did not roll back. A marketing man asked the heads of all major labels what they were doing about the internet and the response was: ‘we’ve put the lawyers onto it.’ There was no other strategy to address loss of profits and the industry prophets did not see the download culture coming.

With good lawyers runnig legal actions through the courts the companies closed down or seized swap sites like Napster, ultimately, doing more harm than good. The main players in the recording industry decided to criminalize their customers; they prosecuted thousands of users and as a result public opinion turned against the industry.  

Some US universities have refused to pass on threatening letters from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to students in their care and the RIAA is talking of suing the universities. Altogether 4,400 students at 158 US campuses are facing demands to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for alleged piracy. No industry has ever devised a more conclusive way of destroying its fan base.

Then in 2001 Apple launched the i-Pod and made a legal way of downloading music on i-Tunes. Over 120 million I-Pods have been sold. In the process, music lost its ‘object’ status.

Now major labels have changed their tune, dropping anti-copying DRM chips and building their own sites to claw back custom from I-Tunes. But at the same time countless websites spring up overnight to offer music direct from the artist, and, often for free.

Consumers can  soon expect to receive music free with our phone contract and be able to get downloads at Starbucks as part of the price of a coffee. Facebook and MySpace are being targeted by artists as ways to launch new talent and get albums to fans for free. Music will come free with advertisements attached anhd a bloke in Melbourne has patented a way of delivering commercials with free music tracks.

Live music will continue to thrive and nobody doubts that there will always be a demand for music. All that will change is the way we receive it, and whether we have to pay for it at the point of delivery. On the business models that are presently being tested, the likelihood is that we won’t have to pay.

The Arctic Monkeys signed to Domino records mid 2005.

Stay tuned….

Mike Bloomfield formed the Electric Flag in 1967 and it was a short-lived band. Never a megastar like Clapton or Hendrix; Bloomfield was a trailblazing guitarist and is best known for his work with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Bob Dylan; he played on classic albums like Highway 61 Revisited.

Bloomfield, vocalist Nick Gravenites, drummer/vocalist Buddy Miles, keyboardist Barry Goldberg, and bassist Harvey Brooks together with a 5 piece horn section created a jazz-blues fusion that remains unparalleled. The opening six tracks are first class: Killing Floor, Groovin’ is Easy and Texas are sensational and Wine will make you want to move.

This album was released the year before Blood Sweat & Tears and Chicago Transit Authority’s first albums; the three bands created a new sound by adding horns and had huge followings. I consider Electric Flag to be the strongest of them for its subtle difference; it blended music from the eclectic sources of Chicago, Memphis, Texas, Motown, Muscle Shoals, New Orleans and Nashville.

Mike Bloomfield’s guitar was never better than on this album. I first heard Bloomfield at high school in 1972 and bought the Super Session (1968) album he recorded with Al Kooper and Stephen Stills. I chucked in school soon after and have been a fan of Bloomfield’s ever since!

This album was trend setting and remains influential; it is among the best albums of the 60s. Highly recommended.

Original Release 1968

CD 1990

Label: Sony

Previously, John Hammond helped Hendrix put together his first band, played harmonica for Jefferson Airplane, produced Bob Dylan and Stevie Ray Vaughan and has played with Robbie Robertson, Duanne Allman, Dr. John, Charlie Musselwhite and Mike Bloomfield; however, Wicked Grin is possibly his greatest achievement.

Tom Waits songs make up12 of its 13 tracks (the closing is a traditional gospel tune) and Waits produced the album.  Along with Hammond, the band features Doug Sahm’s keyboardist Augie Meyers, Charlie Musselwhite on harmonica, Canned Heat’s Larry Taylor on bass, and Waits contributing.  Hammond gives the tracks some oomph that fills them with a menacing rhythm and his vocals are as intense as Waits’ whisky and tobacco snarl.

For the Waits enthusiasts, the tracks included are: 2:19, Heartattack and Vine, Clap Hands, ‘Til the Money Runs Out, 16 Shells From a Thirty-Ought Six, Buzz Fledderjohn, Get Behind the Mule, Shore Leave, Fannin Street, Jockey Full of Bourbon,  Big Black Mariah, and, Murder in the Red Barn.

Mix a well developed bluesman with one of the best song writers of the modern era, and a terrific band is a recipe for some great music with a swampy, voodoo groove.

This is a remarkable album that stands amongst the best.

Virgin
2001