Western Australia Aboriginal Affairs Minister Rejects Calls to Quit Over Child Protection Crisis
Western Australia Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch has defended his record and ruled out resignation despite fierce criticism from local elders and the state opposition.
At a glance
- Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch denied direct responsibility for child protection issues in the Pilbara region.
- Local elders and Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas have demanded his dismissal over systemic failings.
- Mr Punch accused the opposition of exploiting a sensitive situation for political gain and confirmed plans to visit South Hedland.
Western Australia Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch has pushed back against intense criticism over his handling of child welfare in the Pilbara, insisting he holds no direct responsibility for the crisis.
Facing calls to resign from local elders and the state opposition, the Labor minister maintained he retains the backing of Premier Roger Cook and intends to remain in cabinet.
Minister rejects blame as elders express anger
Recent months have revealed systemic child protection problems across Port Hedland and the wider Pilbara. While critics point the finger at Mr Punch, the minister stated that his portfolio does not directly oversee housing, health, or child protection.
Mr Punch argued that Aboriginal affairs is a collective government responsibility and highlighted visits to the region by Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski. Local leaders rejected this explanation. Nyamal and Pitjikarli elder Doris Eaton and Kariyarra elder Pat Mason both expressed disappointment, arguing that issues directly impacting indigenous children fall squarely within the minister's remit.
Opposition demands sacking while minister accuses rivals
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas renewed calls for the premier to dismiss Mr Punch immediately, declaring him unfit for the role. In response, Mr Punch accused the opposition of weaponising a sensitive community issue to score political points ahead of the next election.
The minister confirmed he will travel to South Hedland to meet community members, despite earlier reluctance, and vowed to counter opposition statements in parliament.
What the clash means for the government
The dispute highlights deep tensions over accountability within regional indigenous welfare management in Western Australia. With local elders demanding direct ministerial engagement and the opposition pressing for a dismissal, the government faces sustained scrutiny over how different portfolios coordinate responses to vulnerable communities. Mr Punch's refusal to step down means the pressure will likely shift to Premier Roger Cook to defend his cabinet minister's continued tenure.
What to watch: Don Punch's upcoming visit to South Hedland and how he addresses local community concerns in person.
Reporting from: ABC News. Spotted an error? Tell us.
- Indigenous Affairs
- Child Protection
- Western Australia Politics
- Don Punch
- Basil Zempilas
- Australia
- Politics