Former PM Says ‘Cultural Sensitivities’ Obstructing Moves to Tackle Aboriginal Disadvantage Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott stated that cultural sensitivities are a significant obstacle to addressing Aboriginal disadvantage. He argued that customs, such as avoiding the name of the deceased, hinder discussions and insights into the issues faced by Indigenous Australians. Abbott highlighted the case of Kumanjayi Little Baby, a five-year-old Aboriginal girl murdered in Alice Springs, as an example where cultural practices impede direct engagement with the problem.

• Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott believes cultural sensitivities obstruct efforts to address Aboriginal disadvantage.
• He argues that ‘culture’ prevents open discussion and insight into the issues faced by Indigenous Australians.
• Abbott cited the case of Kumanjayi Little Baby, a five-year-old Aboriginal girl murdered in Alice Springs, where naming customs can hinder reference to the deceased.
• He suggested that non-Indigenous Australians’ reluctance to cross cultural boundaries also contributes to the problem.