Why in 2015 do we need this particular theme? 

The truth is that Aboriginal young people are struggling. 

They are overrepresented in many of our services, most notably our homelessness service.

At the Inner West Youth Homelessness Service, 20 per cent of the young people this financial year have identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. 

These young people make up three per cent of the population, meaning they are well overrepresented in this service. 

The same can be said for the juvenile justice system, where 56 per cent of young people in detention identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

So what can be done to turn these statistics around and start making progress toward equality? 

At Youth Off The Streets, we see it as connecting them to their country and culture and getting everyday Australians caring about Aboriginal issues.

Connecting Aboriginal young people to their country and culture is arguably the most important part of this.

NAIDOC Week community events are a great way for everyday Australians to connect with the Aboriginal culture and people, learn about their rich history and get involved in campaigns that build respect for the Aboriginal people.

We don’t want to see Aboriginal young people over represented at our services any longer. 

We want them to be equal and have every chance at success. There are two clear ways to do this; help Aboriginal young people connect with their culture and country and to get everyday Australians involved in Aboriginal Issues.

NAIDOC Week is a great entry point for the latter and I encourage all Australians to get out there, attend a community event or get involved in a campaign championing Aboriginal people.

Father Chris Riley

CEO and Founder at Youth Off The Streets