Former PM Says ‘Cultural Sensitivities’ Obstructing Moves to Tackle Aboriginal Disadvantage

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has questioned the cultural approach surrounding the death of Kumanjayi Little Baby in Alice Springs.

Australia's former Prime Minister Tony Abbott sits on stage during a discussion with British politicians in Manchester, north-west England, on Oct. 7, 2025. Oli Scarff/AFP via Getty Images

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has warned “cultural sensitivities” are a roadblock to dealing with the death of Kumanjayi Little Baby, a five-year-old Aboriginal girl from Alice Springs who was murdered in April.

Abbott argued that cultural “sensitivities” and non-Indigenous Australians’ reluctance to cross cultural boundaries are hindering discussion and insight on Aboriginal disadvantage.