Rob McPhee has resigned from his position as the Independent Aboriginal Chair of the Northern Territory Children and Families Tripartite Forum, citing concerns that the forum’s role in shaping child and family policy has been reduced and that Aboriginal voices are not being meaningfully included in major reforms.
The Children and Families Tripartite Forum was established to bring together the Northern Territory Government, Australian Government, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and community sector representatives to provide strategic advice on improving outcomes for children and families across the Territory.
McPhee, who also leads Danila Dilba Health Service, said he accepted the chair role believing the forum could provide a genuine partnership between governments and Aboriginal organisations. However, he said the relationship had deteriorated over time, particularly around significant child protection policy decisions.
A major point of concern has been the Northern Territory Government’s recent changes to child protection laws. Critics, including Aboriginal organisations, legal groups and child advocates, have argued the reforms were developed without enough consultation and could weaken protections designed to maintain Aboriginal children’s connections with family, community and culture.
McPhee said recent decisions showed a move away from collaborative decision-making, with important reforms being developed largely within government processes rather than through the Tripartite Forum. He argued that evidence and advice from frontline organisations should play a central role in shaping policies affecting vulnerable children and families.
The resignation follows the earlier departure of Northern Territory Children’s Commissioner Shahleena Musk, who also raised concerns about transparency, independent oversight and consultation during child protection reform discussions.
The NT Government has defended its reforms, saying the changes are focused on improving child safety and ensuring vulnerable children receive stable care. Child Protection Minister Robyn Cahill rejected claims that consultation had been ignored and said the government remained committed to protecting children across the Territory.
Supporters of the reforms argue that government intervention is necessary when children are at risk and that existing systems have failed some vulnerable families. However, opponents say policy changes must also consider the importance of cultural identity, family connections and lessons from past child removal practices.
The debate has highlighted wider national discussions about Aboriginal self-determination, child protection, government accountability and the role of community-controlled organisations in decision-making. Many Aboriginal leaders have called for reforms that improve child safety while maintaining cultural connections and community involvement.
McPhee’s resignation raises questions about the future role of the Tripartite Forum and whether it can continue as an effective partnership mechanism between governments and Aboriginal organisations.
The NT Government is expected to continue implementing its child protection reforms, while Aboriginal organisations and advocacy groups are calling for stronger consultation processes and independent oversight.
The issue remains highly sensitive, with stakeholders continuing to debate how best to protect children while respecting Aboriginal families, culture and community authority.
