We'll discuss indigenous seats: govt

Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion is not ruling out dedicated indigenous seats in federal parliament.

He says he is prepared to discuss the issue with Palmer United Party senator Jacqui Lambie.

Senator Lambie has called for the numbers of federal politicians to reflect the population of indigenous Australians, citing Maori seats in New Zealand's parliament as evidence the policy would work.

Senator Scullion said it appeared to be a way to gain better representation in parliament and seemed to be a "quick and direct" plan.

However, it was more important to discuss it with indigenous Australians than politicians.

"My opinion means very little. My important responsibility is to reflect the opinions and feelings of my mob," he told reporters in northeast Arnhem Land on Monday.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has also not ruled out the idea, at least until the government has had a chance to gauge public opinion.

"All sorts of people will put forward all sorts of proposals in the coming weeks and months," he told reporters.

Senator Lambie, who revealed she had indigenous heritage during her maiden speech to parliament, wants about four per cent of parliamentary seats reserved for indigenous politicians.

That would mean about nine seats across both houses.

The move could make it easier for Senator Lambie to retain her seat in the upper house, being one of only three indigenous Australians in federal parliament.

However, her claims to be linked to the Mannalargenna people have been questioned by Aboriginal elder and direct descendant.

Clyde Mansell has challenged Senator Lambie to provide proof, something she says is not necessary.

New Zealand has Maori electorates, consisting only of Maori voters. However, Maori can also choose to vote in general electorates.

Australia's first indigenous lower house MP, Ken Wyatt, was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010.