Discrimination, the intergenerational effects of poverty and the loss of autonomy have fuelled it. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples often face prejudice when trying to rent a home, find employment, get service in shops and banks, and do the everyday things that most Australians take for granted. Disadvantage in one area increases the likelihood of disadvantage in other areas. For example, without study facilities at home, even with parental encouragement, learning for many will be hard. Similarly, children with hearing loss from middle ear troubles or undernourished children will find education difficult.
Poor sanitation affects health, as does poor or inappropriate housing.
Career progression to middle and senior levels often requires tertiary education. Being poor and unemployed statistically lowers self-esteem and increases illness, death and the likelihood of arrest and imprisonment, just as poor health and limited educational achievement affects employability. Ultimately, all Australians benefit from a united effort to address Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander disadvantage. As Indigenous disadvantage is overcome, the economy grows and the need for government expenditure is decreased. At the same time, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will be better placed to fulfil their cultural, social and economic aspirations.