BREAKING NEWS: Marion Scrymgour MP has just made history as the first Aboriginal person to chair the House of Representatives Chamber, marking a significant milestone in Australian politics. The Tiwi and Anmatjere woman was appointed to the Speaker’s Panel in the 47th Parliament and has been chairing the Federation Chamber for over a year.
This unprecedented achievement is not just a personal triumph for Scrymgour but a profound moment for representation in Australia. As the Member for Lingiari, she emphasized the importance of her role, stating, “Aboriginal people deserve to be in every chair, at every table.” This statement resonates deeply, especially for young Aboriginal individuals across the Northern Territory.
Scrymgour, who previously served as Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chief Minister in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly, has been a trailblazer throughout her career. She was the first woman to lead the NT’s Northern Land Council and has held vital roles in the Aboriginal community-controlled health sector. Following the re-election of the Albanese Labor Government in May, she was appointed as the Special Envoy for Remote Communities.
In her first address as Chair, Scrymgour reflected on her upbringing as one of 11 siblings from a working-class family in Darwin, highlighting her father’s painful history as a member of the stolen generations. “Change happens, it can be slow and it can be painful, but Aboriginal people are strong,” she declared, reinforcing her commitment to representing her community.
“This is a huge moment for the Parliament, but more importantly, it was a message to young Aboriginal people back home in the NT,” Scrymgour stated.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, congratulated Scrymgour on her groundbreaking appointment, affirming her impressive record of firsts. “Marion Scrymgour MP has a long history of firsts,” McCarthy said, praising her dedication to her work and the communities she represents.
Milton Dick MP, the usual Speaker, also commended Scrymgour, calling it “an incredible honour for the Australian Parliament.” The recognition from fellow officials underscores the significance of this historic appointment.
Marion Scrymgour’s ascension to the role of Chair is a pivotal moment in the fight for representation and equality in Australia. As her journey unfolds, all eyes will be on her leadership in the House of Representatives and the impact she will undoubtedly have on future generations.
This landmark event is likely to inspire discussions about diversity and representation in politics, making it a topic of immediate relevance for Australians and the global community alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
