Senator BROWN(10.16 a.m.) —I concur with the views that have been expressed by Senator Margetts on this matter. It really comes down to whether or not we are going to diminish the power of the Aboriginal community, through ATSIC, as a community able to express itself, to find its own way, to make determinations about itself and to move towards self-determination. There is a clear streak of paternalism in the amendments that are being sought.

There is not unanimity within the Aboriginal community as we have been led to believe. There is strong community feedback which says that the position Senator Margetts is taking is one that has strong support within the Aboriginal community and I support the position she has taken.