Albanese endorses ‘principle’ of makarrata but stops short of backing truth and justice commission

Prime minister's emphasis on engagement' appears to differ from more formal truth-telling process advocated by First Nations leaders

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Anthony Albanese has endorsed telling the truth about historical and current Indigenous experiences of colonisation in Australia but stopped short of committing to establishing a commission to facilitate the process.

Speaking on ABC TV's Insiders program at the Garma festival in north-east Arnhem Land, Albanese suggested consulting Indigenous organisations on ways to better address Indigenous disadvantage and boost economic development in their communities fits the definition of the Yolu word makarrata" - coming together after struggle.

Sign up for Guardian Australia's free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup