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 treatm