New Indigenous Minister for the NT
December 16 2003
The National Office and the Northern Territory Division of the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) congratulates the Member for Arafura, Ms Marion Scrymgour who yesterday was appointed as the Northern Territory’s first Indigenous female Minister.
The Chief Minister Clare Martin made the announcement after a Ministerial reshuffle which resulted in Ms Scrymgour being elected.
The new Minister will have responsibility for Family and Community Services and Environment and Heritage, and will also provide advice on Young Territorians, Senior Territorians and Women's Policy.
NTEU NT Division Industrial Officer Mark Wheeler said, “While Ms Scrymgour is the fourth Indigenous women elected to parliament, she is first Indigenous woman to gain a seat in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly and Australia’s first Indigenous woman to become a Government Minister (Front Bench). She has also served as Parliamentary Secretary in Education. Again, I would like to congratulate, Marion in her move to the front bench. I believe the Martin Labor government is showing its commitment to all Territorians by ensuring that they have the best possible team”.
NTEU National Indigenous Officer Joel Wright said, “This appointment will mean a fairer Northern Territory for all and is a historic achievement that is way too long overdue. Indigenous Australians in the Northern Territory endure the lowest socio economic status in the country, which the new Minister is in a prime position to redress”. Mr Wright said.
Ms Scrymgour's has worked in key positions with the Northern Land Council, the Nguiu Community Government Council and the Katherine West Health Board.