Australia’s first Indigenous federal minister has voiced his discontent with politicians who are criticizing welcome to country ceremonies during the election campaign. Ken Wyatt, a former Liberal minister, urged them to stay out of the matter.
Wyatt, who was the first Indigenous minister for Indigenous Australians, expressed his disappointment in the commentary on the issue but did not name specific politicians.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has labeled these ceremonies as “overdone” and unnecessary at various public events, such as Anzac Day. He suggested that RSLs and organizations should decide when to hold them.
However, Dutton’s views have been met with criticism, including from some people in Melbourne and Perth who booed these ceremonies during Anzac Day services. These protests were condemned by politicians from both sides of the campaign trail.
Wyatt was asked whether Dutton had handled the issue responsibly and responded, “When you start to politicize elements of Aboriginal affairs or cultural practices, then you start a process of allowing division to occur.”
He also noted that these ceremonies are important for fostering friendship, welcoming, and acknowledging that someone is entering someone else’s home country or region. He emphasized that politicizing these practices adds to division.
Dutton stated that welcome to country is appropriate at significant events like the opening of parliament but downplayed the need for them elsewhere. The Coalition’s campaign spokesperson also agreed that these ceremonies have become too frequent and insincere.
Responding to the controversy, Dutton claimed that most veterans do not want these ceremonies at Anzac Day events, but he did not specify how this view was formed. The RSL declined to comment.
In light of NRL club Melbourne Storm canceling a welcome to country ceremony, major sporting codes were contacted for clarification on their policies. Football Australia expressed its commitment to reconciliation in Australia.
