What Happened?
Northern Territory’s top boss, Lia Finocchiaro, is caught in a heated debate after choosing not to acknowledge Aboriginal traditional owners at last week’s Bombing of Darwin memorial.
She was the only speaker out of eight who didn’t mention the Larrakia people in her speech.
“It’s Being Forced On Us,” Says Chief Minister
Speaking up about her decision on Tuesday, Finocchiaro didn’t hold back. “Territorians feel like it’s being rammed down their throat,” she told ABC Darwin.
Instead of acknowledging traditional owners, she focused on veterans, all Territorians, and current defense force members.
Local Elder Calls It “Embarrassing”
Larrakia elder Richard Fejo wasn’t having it. He shared how his own grandfather helped rescue injured people during the bombing:
• His grandfather and great-uncle pulled injured men from the water
• They worked alongside non-Aboriginal people
• “We fought as one,” Fejo emphasized
The Bigger Picture: Money Talk
This comes as federal politicians debate Welcome to Country ceremony costs:
• Current cost: $450,000 per term
• Opposition’s view:
Money could be better spent helping Indigenous communities
• Debate continues about balancing tradition with practical benefits
What Others Are Saying
• Labor MP Manuel Brown: Called it “very concerning”
• Finocchiaro’s defense: Claims multiple acknowledgments become “tokenistic”
• Community reaction: Mixed views about the necessity of acknowledgments at every event
Why It Matters
The debate touches on bigger questions about: • How we recognize Indigenous history • The role of traditional ceremonies in modern Australia • Balancing respect for tradition with practical concerns