If we are One and Free..why is the first question on any government form 'Are you aboriginal or Torres Straight Islander.'........?

Haha thats because nz is racist against natives

"We are one and free", HAHA! No we're not. Not when we have jumped up sociopaths like Palaszczuk and McGowan playing State of Origin political games with the borders and keeping families separated to score a political point. I guess "for we are all states pitted against other states in our own provincial self interest rather than working together for the national good" doesn't fit the tune as well.

It’s both to ensure culturally appropriate service is provided AND, because the indigenous population is more economically disadvantaged than the rest of us.  It’s only been about 50 years since the federal, state and territorial parliaments stoped considering them as 'flora and fauna' in social security policies. 

This is a perfect example of government trying to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and yet still having the racist finger pointed their way.

If you tick the box [yes]  then affirmative action may provide opportunities, otherwise not afforded to everyone else.

Because being treated equally doesn’t mean being treated the same. 

If you watch a lot of running races you will see the starting positions are staggered. That is because those on the outside are at a disadvantage (need to run further) to get to the same place as those on the inside.

It is pretty much the same in our society- if you start on the inside it will be easier for you. Statistically people of ATSI backgrounds are more likely to have disadvantages than non indigenous backgrounds. Its not everyone of ATSI, but it is statistically a significant enough number for those who believe in a a fair go to want to see changes. You may have heard of ‘closing the gap’.

 Identifying ATSI background is part of the strategy to ‘close the gap’.

Likely because the government offers extra benefits to aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders to assist those who society quite often sees as inferiors or trouble makers denying them as many job opportunities as a white person has.  

There's definitely no concern for the indigenous peoples of the UK.

Everyone is equal, but some are more equal than others.

It's known as affirmative action in the US.

Don't start making sense people will grow to hate you.

I've never seen that on any government form anywhere. Where do you live?