Arabic version: رئيس الوزراء يزور عائلة كومانجاي ليتل بيبي في أليس سبرينغز

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with the family of 5-year-old Warlpiri girl Kumanjayi Little Baby, whose body was found after an extensive five-day search in Alice Springs last month. The meeting took place at the Old Timers’ town camp, where she was last seen. According to SBS News, Albanese expressed that the nation stands with the family during this difficult time.

Albanese met with Kumanjayi Little Baby’s mother, grandfather, and grandmother, acknowledging their loss. He stated, “She was cherished and loved and they’re going through the worst of devastation.” He emphasized the importance of showing support to the grieving family, stating, “They are not alone.”

The body of Kumanjayi Little Baby was found on Thursday, April 30, five days after she went missing from the Old Timers town camp, south of Alice Springs. The search for Kumanjayi was the largest in the Northern Territory in over two decades, concluding with the discovery of her body. Albanese took the opportunity to thank the hundreds of individuals and organizations who participated in the search efforts, including police, emergency service workers, and local community groups.

In light of Kumanjayi’s death, the Northern Territory Government has announced plans to overhaul the child protection system. Proposed legislative amendments aim to prioritize child safety in decisions regarding the removal of children from their families. However, more than 330 organizations have criticized the changes for lacking adequate consultation with Aboriginal-controlled organizations.

Albanese urged the NT Government to collaborate with First Nations people and stakeholders to ensure effective outcomes. He highlighted the need for an inclusive approach, stating, “Consultation and engagement is so important.” The NT Government has opened a week for public submissions on the proposed amendments, with a deadline set for May 22.