Stop non-aboriginal people from claiming aboriginal benefits
The issue
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long been marginalized in Australia, facing severe socio-economic disadvantages compared to non-Indigenous Australians. To help address these disparities, specific benefits and support programs have been established. However, there is a growing concern that these crucial resources are being misappropriated by individuals who are not of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. Even some Aboriginal people believe the number of people claiming to be indigenous, who are not, could be as high as 300,000 people.
The education system, the media and the Australian government constantly remind the people that white men stole this country. Now the same people turn a blind eye to people stealing Aboriginal funding. It would also appear that there are persons in positions that are meant for Aboriginal people, who are not Aboriginal, this needs to stop.
These benefits and Aboriginal positions are pivotal in providing access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. When non-Indigenous people illegitimately claim these benefits, it not only undermines these support systems but also perpetuates the very inequities they were designed to combat.
Misuse of Aboriginal benefits can lead to the neglect of those in genuine need, amplifying the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. This misuse diverts precious resources away from those who need them the most, diluting the impact of programs intended to close the gap.
We call upon the Australian government to implement stricter verification processes and penalties for those falsely claiming Aboriginal benefits. By strengthening the screening processes and increasing penalties for fraudulent claims, we can ensure that the support reaches those it is intended for, truly supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Proof via birth certificates, or even a simple swab test, to check a person's DNA would suffice. It would be great to see someone like Bruce Pascoe lead the way.
Sign this petition to urge the government to take immediate action, protect Aboriginal benefits, and uphold the rights and dignity of Australia’s Indigenous communities.
17
The issue
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long been marginalized in Australia, facing severe socio-economic disadvantages compared to non-Indigenous Australians. To help address these disparities, specific benefits and support programs have been established. However, there is a growing concern that these crucial resources are being misappropriated by individuals who are not of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. Even some Aboriginal people believe the number of people claiming to be indigenous, who are not, could be as high as 300,000 people.
The education system, the media and the Australian government constantly remind the people that white men stole this country. Now the same people turn a blind eye to people stealing Aboriginal funding. It would also appear that there are persons in positions that are meant for Aboriginal people, who are not Aboriginal, this needs to stop.
These benefits and Aboriginal positions are pivotal in providing access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. When non-Indigenous people illegitimately claim these benefits, it not only undermines these support systems but also perpetuates the very inequities they were designed to combat.
Misuse of Aboriginal benefits can lead to the neglect of those in genuine need, amplifying the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. This misuse diverts precious resources away from those who need them the most, diluting the impact of programs intended to close the gap.
We call upon the Australian government to implement stricter verification processes and penalties for those falsely claiming Aboriginal benefits. By strengthening the screening processes and increasing penalties for fraudulent claims, we can ensure that the support reaches those it is intended for, truly supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Proof via birth certificates, or even a simple swab test, to check a person's DNA would suffice. It would be great to see someone like Bruce Pascoe lead the way.
Sign this petition to urge the government to take immediate action, protect Aboriginal benefits, and uphold the rights and dignity of Australia’s Indigenous communities.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 19 July 2026