On 17 February 2026 the Premier Roger Cook MLA moved a motion in the WA Parliament condemning the alleged terrorist act targeting the 26 January Invasion Day rally.
For many in our community, this matters.
It names the harm that was caused. It acknowledges the fear and distress felt by those who were targeted. And it affirms that violence aimed at silencing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices has no place here.
In practice, this motion recognises that:
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What happened was serious, deliberate, and unacceptable.
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Community gatherings — especially those led by First Nations people — must be safe.
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Truth‑telling and cultural expression should never be met with violence or intimidation.
Politically, it signals that:
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The State is willing to publicly acknowledge the racialised and ideological nature of the attack.
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First Nations communities deserve solidarity, protection, and respect.
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There is a shared expectation that acts of hate will be met with unity, not silence.
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For our allies, partners, and network, this moment is important because:
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It strengthens our collective call for cultural safety across all community spaces.
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It provides clear, authoritative language you can use when speaking with your own communities, staff, and stakeholders.
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It reminds us that standing with First Nations people is not symbolic, it is a shared responsibility.
We honour everyone who continues to show up for truth, justice, and community. And we remain committed to walking alongside First Nations communities in strength and solidarity in moments of harm.
