The Australian Greens welcome the release of a plan to tackle child abuse by the Combined Aboriginal Organisations of the Northern Territory, applauding it as "a comprehensive and considered response."

"This is the kind of analysis and planning that the government should have done," said Senator Rachel Siewert today.

"It outlines a range of practical measures that embrace best practice and build on the knowledge base already available to Government, including the recommendations of the Little Children are Sacred report," she said.

"It plays to the strengths of the communities and culture of the Territory in a way that will ensure successful and cost-effective programs that deliver long-term results."

Senator Siewert called on the Federal Government to have a close look at the plan and to rethink their current approach.

"The Aboriginal organisations are offering Howard and Brough a genuine way forward. They have the opportunity to sit down with them and agree how to tackle these problems in partnership with Aboriginal communities. It's a win-win situation," said Senator Siewert.

"Mr Howard must inject substantial resources into health, education and housing for Aboriginal children and work in partnership with the Aboriginal communities of the territory."

"Its time for the government to forget about the land grab, put aside their ideological opposition to the permit system, and concentrate on what is needed to strengthen child protection and tackle the underlying causes of poverty, disadvantage and family breakdown," concluded Senator Siewert.

• Download the report here