Insights from the 2025 Federal Budget

Published March 31st, 2025

The recently unveiled 2025 Federal Budget introduces several initiatives poised to benefit the Torres Strait Island communities. Here’s a breakdown of the key measures and their anticipated impacts: 

 

1. Commitment to Closing the Gap

The government has pledged $1.3 billion towards Closing the Gap initiatives, aiming to foster economic self-determination for First Nations Australians. This investment encompasses support for remote community services, business opportunities, and home ownership assistance. Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasised, “We’re providing $1.3 billion for Closing the Gap and economic self‑determination for First Nations Australians, with investments in remote community services, opportunities for business, and support for home ownership.”  

 

2. Enhancing Early Childhood Education

A landmark $5 billion commitment has been made to reform early education and care, including the establishment of the $1 billion Building Early Education Fund. This initiative aims to expand and build new services in under-served areas, ensuring greater accessibility for Indigenous children. Catherine Liddle, CEO of Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC), remarked, “Closing the Gap starts with our children, and the $5 billion commitment to reforming early education and care is an important foundation that will help shift the dial.” Source: SNAICC – National Voice for our Children 

 

3. Support for Indigenous Languages

The budget allocates $11 million for a three-year extension of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages Policy Partnership. This funding aims to preserve and promote Indigenous languages, a vital aspect of cultural heritage in the Torres Strait. Source: Croakey Health Media+4Mirage News+4SNAICC – National Voice for our Children+4 

 

4. Addressing Remote Food Insecurity

An allocation of $71 million has been designated to tackle food insecurity in remote Indigenous communities. This initiative seeks to improve access to affordable and nutritious food, directly benefiting Torres Strait Islanders.  

 

5. Investment in Domestic Violence Services

The budget includes $21 million for domestic violence services tailored for Indigenous communities. This funding aims to enhance support systems and ensure the safety and well-being of community members.  

 

6. Environmental and Health Initiatives

An allocation of $900,000 has been made for mosquito control in the Torres Strait, addressing a critical public health concern. Additionally, $75 million is dedicated to combating illegal fishing, which is essential for preserving marine resources vital to the Torres Strait economy and culture. Source: news.com 

 

7. Cultural Preservation Efforts

The budget provides $3.6 million for digitising Indigenous media collections, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of cultural materials for future generations. Source: news.com 

 

We acknowledge the benefits these budget measures could bring to our communities and recognise the positive impact they may have on addressing key challenges. We remain committed to working closely with government agencies to ensure effective implementation and continue advocating for additional investments that directly respond to the unique needs of the Torres Strait region.