4. CONCLUSION
4.1 This paper has discussed past and current activities to produce statistics on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and outlined six key strategic areas to guide further development of this program of statistics. It drew on information from the range of external committees which advise on information priorities and gaps for Indigenous statistics, or which use existing information for reporting on the circumstances of Indigenous people. The proposed strategic directions have also been informed by the priorities for development identified in the Information Development Plans that have been produced for a number of areas of social concern, such as health; education and training; crime and justice; rural and regional; and children and youth.
4.2 ABS Directions in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Statistics will be both a reference document and a guide to future developments in Indigenous statistical improvements. Implementation of the future activities discussed in this paper will be carried out by the ABS, continuing to fulfil our commitment to providing a national statistical service that is relevant, timely and accessible.
4.3 The ABS is committed to ongoing consultation on its work program, and intends to continue to review its Indigenous statistics program on a regular basis. We would like to acknowledge the significant contribution of the government agencies, Indigenous organisations and communities, and research groups involved in the consultation process.