Assimilation is not a dirty word
In 1968 identifiable federal government spending on indigenous affairs was $10 million. In 2004, this figure was nearly $3 billion. Even taking inflation into account the increase has been tremendous. Despite this additional spending – brought about by political parties out-bidding the other during election campaigns – we have not seen the drastic improvements needed in indigenous health, education and housing.
In the meantime, substance abuse and sexual violence has continued. With such massive amounts of money being spent on indigenous affairs, Helen Hughes and Jenness Warin suggest (PDF file) the funds are not reaching their intended destination. But as with all aid monies the effects have been minute when compared with what the market system could have achieved. The market encourages self-sufficiency, whereas aid encourages dependence.
