After documents revealed nearly half a million dollars were spent over two fiscal years, the American government’s costs on” Welcome to Country” rites has come under scrutiny.
Freedom of Information files, obtained by dark state waste reduction official James Stevens, demonstrate that 300 ceremonies across 21 federal agencies cost citizens$ 452, 953 between 2022 and 2024, reported Sky News.
The department of the prime minister and cabinet spent$ 41, 801 on 33 ceremonies, while the Australian Institute of Sport allocated$ 47, 003, and the National Indigenous Australians Agency ( NIAA ) spent$ 60, 342. On average, each ceremony cost approximately$ 1, 266 and lasted five to 15 minutes, amounting to about$ 100 per minute.
Stevens criticized the cost, arguing that citizens shouldn’t bear the cost of a ceremony like that.
” Spending million on’ pleasant’ ceremonies does nothing to address the challenges facing Aboriginal Australians”, Stevens stated. Nationals Leader David Littleproud echoed these sentiments, calling the saving “obscene” and suggesting that significant social or international activities should be held for the festivities.
Littleproud told News.com. a better use of that money, especially when shifting the ring and closing the gap, is stated in the statement.
The procedures were defended by the federal government, arguing that they were crucial for showing appreciation for the communities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
A director was quoted by News.com. claiming that the plans have been in place for many years, even under previous administrations, and that departmental decisions are made to maintain value for money. The ceremonies were referred to as a sign of respect and a way to offer visitors” religious security,” according to the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton also made an opinion on the issue, declaring that, if elected, Aboriginal flags would divide the country. Anthony Albanese, the prime minister, refuted Dutton’s assertion that showing value” costs nothing” and that he was fostering section.
According to critics, the funds used for the ceremonies for “welcome to state” could be used to make real improvements for indigenous communities. Proponents, but, emphasise the ceremonies ‘ historical value and their role in fostering value and unity.
