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Job title: Federal Greens Senator for Victoria
Proudest achievement to date: Being an activist, a parliamentarian, and an active member of my community whilst raising three children.
What or who inspires you? I’m from a strong matriarchal line of powerful activist women. I am inspired, and draw my strength from my grandmothers, mother, aunties and sister.
Advice you would give young people following in your footsteps: My grandmother always told me, never forget where you come from and who you are. That means connection, culture and the struggle of resistance.
Do you have a favourite quote? “Always was Always will be Aboriginal Land!”
The legislation has been under review since early 2018. Wyatt said it will be introduced into parliament after the state election in March, but he will not be there to see it. The Yamatji man is retiring from politics at the age of 46 to spend more time with his family. There is broad support for reforming the laws in WA, but Guardian Australia understands a change of government could prompt a further round of consultation.
Legal experts say it is not necessary to wait until the law is repealed to better protect Aboriginal heritage. Currently, the minister is required to consider whether an application to destroy or impact upon Aboriginal heritage is in the community interest. A “well-intentioned minister” might take to include the free prior and informed consent of Indigenous people, says Greg McIntyre SC, a lawyer who has specialised in Indigenous heritage cases in WA.