For almost three terms of government, WA Labor has had a generational opportunity to make change, to ensure that all West Australians are afforded basic human rights.

WA's most disadvantaged people are continually being let down.

You don't need to walk too far before you see the hardship that families are facing. People living on the streets, in cars, young people languishing in detention or adult prison, children living in squalor, such as the case in Frisby Court, Port Hedland.

Why do situations reach crisis point, before anyone sits up and takes notice? Is this the legacy that Roger Cook wants to be remembered for?

The situation is dire for First Nations People.

It's as though we've been placed in the 'too-hard' basket, and simply forgotten. We remain over-policed and imprisoned at disproportionate rates, our families are fractured, and we're not seeing any improvement in Closing the Gap targets.

The WA Government displays a general lack of care and response when it comes to the complex issues facing First Nations people. Things are going from bad to worse and WA Labor don't seem to care that the current system is failing our people.

Governments still believe they have all the answers. The time has come for our decision makers to stop thinking they know what's best for us. This is an antiquated way of thinking and they need to be working alongside our Aboriginal agencies, who have the knowledge and expertise to implement real change moving forward.

I implore Roger Cook and his team to prioritise working towards making our society one that embraces diversity, overcomes barriers, deals with the tough issues, and ensures that every person in our State has access to equality and their fundamental freedoms and human rights.

That would be a legacy to be proud of.

Wayne Nannup is the chief executive office of the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA.