Indigenous People of Australia and the Law

This unit examines indigenous people of Australia and their culture in the context of historical and contemporary Australian law and society. The unit examines laws and policies concerning indigenous identity, including recognition of rights under the Australian Constitution and rights, native title, and customary law are examined, from both a historical perspective, and a present one. Particular focus is given to territorial issues, equality and the interaction of indigenous people with the criminal justice system and international law and comparative perspectives. Some comparisons are made of other Indigenous peoples, including Canada, the Nordic countries and New Zealand. The unit also considers law reform in the areas of human rights, the criminal justice system, issues of self-determination, and reconciliation.