Northern Territory Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has called on Indigenous men across Australia to take greater responsibility in addressing sexual abuse and violence within their communities. Speaking in Port Hedland on Thursday during discussions with elders and community leaders, Price attributed the ongoing child welfare crisis to what she described as a deeply entrenched Aboriginal patriarchy.

Price, a member of the Liberal Party and a Walpiri woman from Alice Springs, criticized prevailing cultural norms that, in her view, prioritize men over women and contribute to the normalization of violence. She said, “Too many Indigenous male leaders are turning away from child sexual abuse that has been normalised,” and highlighted a cultural hierarchy in which women gain respect only in older age, while younger women are often devalued.

Drawing on her personal experiences, Price said acceptance of violence in traditional culture is a contributing factor to high rates of domestic and family violence among Indigenous communities. She emphasized that this environment silences the voices of women and child victims, hindering justice and protection efforts.

The senator urged Indigenous men to actively oppose abuse and violence, stating that meaningful change would not occur until men start accepting accountability. “I would like to see a helluva lot more men step up and say ‘enough’ to the sexual abuse and to the violence,” she said.

During her remarks, Price became emotional as she recounted a recent conversation with Susie Bully, a 21-year-old woman who at age 17 reported her father, Robert Bully, for sexual abuse. The senator’s reference to Bully’s bravery underscores the need for increased visibility and support for victims willing to speak out against abuse.

Price’s comments come amid ongoing national discussions about child welfare and Indigenous community safety. She framed the issue as urgent and linked it directly to cultural attitudes and leadership within Aboriginal communities, calling for a cultural shift led by men in order to protect vulnerable children and women.

While her statements highlight a critical social challenge, Price’s perspective has also sparked debate among Indigenous leaders and advocates about the role of culture and community solutions in addressing these complex issues.