The Australian Democrats have described the status of Indigenous affairs as an international scandal.

Democrats leader Andrew Bartlett made the comments at the official launch of the party's Aboriginal Affairs Policy in Alice Springs today.

Senator Bartlett says the Howard Government has failed Aboriginal people by neglecting the community.

He says the Democrats are pushing for an apology to the stolen generations, a return to the reconciliation process and an improvement in health, education and economic opportunities.

"Strengthening communities and supporting families because that's where the core of overcoming that disadvantage can be addressed," he said.

"Measures to do with extra opportunities for Indigenous employment and through areas like the arts, Indigenous culture, Indigenous tourism, clear opportunities for economic opportunities."