Premier's NAIDOC Award

The Hon. J.E. HANSON (15:36): My question is to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Will the minister inform the council on this year's female recipient of the Premier's NAIDOC Award?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (15:36): I am very happy to do so, and I have been pleased to update the chamber this year, as I have in previous years, in relation to recipients of NAIDOC awards. I am pleased to inform the chamber that the female recipient of the South Australian Premier's NAIDOC Award is Aunty Josephine Kunde. Aunty Josephine is a proud Kokatha and Wirangu woman who has played an instrumental role in supporting Aboriginal people and families engaging with the justice system.

Aunty Josephine joined the Courts Administration Authority more than 20 years ago, in 2002, and began her role as an Aboriginal justice officer in 2003. Since that time, she has become a deeply trusted and dependable Aboriginal justice officer within the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court. As many in this chamber would be aware, the Port Adelaide Nunga Court was established in 1999 and is, with the Murray Bridge Nunga Court, the oldest specialist court for sentencing Aboriginal people in Australia. Aunty Josephine has been a compassionate and steady presence in the Nunga Court now for over 20 years.

Aunty Josephine is known for her quiet strength and calm and compassionate presence. Her work with Aboriginal court users has extended far beyond procedural assistance. She has provided emotional support, cultural sensitivity and care to individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable and challenging times. Whether that be sitting quietly beside a distressed young person, ensuring an elder feels heard and respected or helping families navigate complex legal processes, Aunty Josephine consistently demonstrates care, dignity and cultural understanding, and her actions are motivated by a sense of purpose and love for her community.

Aunty Josephine has played a crucial role in growing the credibility, safety and success of the Nunga Court. Unfortunately, Aunty Josephine was unable to attend the Premier's NAIDOC Awards ceremony at the Town Hall earlier this year. However, a few weeks later I had the privilege of going down to the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court and presenting her award in person. In a testament to her contribution, the room was filled with many legal officers, court staff and past judicial officers to celebrate this achievement. Having people like Aunty Josephine in the court system is crucial. I congratulate her on this significant recognition and thank her for her contributions.