Key Concepts
What does the term Country refer to in Aboriginal culture?
The spiritual, cultural, social and physical connection Aboriginal peoples have with land.
According to Aboriginal perspectives, land is more than property. Name ONE other thing it represents.
Culture, spirituality, identity, ancestry, belonging, responsibility.
What was the name of the 1963 petition presented by the Yolngu people?
The Yirrkala Bark Petition.
What landmark High Court case recognised Native Title in 1992?
Mabo v Queensland (No. 2).
Which Act was passed in 1976 to recognise land rights in the Northern Territory?
Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976.
What does terra nullius mean in the Australian context?
"Land belonging to no one" or Land of no sovereign.
What phrase is commonly used to describe looking after land and waters?
Caring for Country.
Who led the Wave Hill Walk-Off in 1966?
Vincent Lingiari.
What legal fiction did the Mabo decision overturn?
Terra nullius.
What government body was established by the Native Title Act to help manage claims?
National Native Title Tribunal.
What is sovereignty?
The power to control land, make laws and govern a territory
Why is Country important to Aboriginal identity?
It connects people to culture, ancestors, spirituality and community.
What was established in Canberra in 1972 as a protest for land rights?
The Aboriginal Tent Embassy.
What Act was passed in response to Mabo?
Native Title Act 1993.
What was the main purpose of the Native Title Act 1993?
To establish a process for recognising and managing Native Title claims.
What is Customary Lore?
The traditional system of laws, customs, responsibilities and behaviour followed by Aboriginal peoples.
How can disconnection from Country impact wellbeing?
It can contribute to poorer social, cultural, emotional and physical wellbeing.
Why is the Wave Hill Walk-Off considered significant?
It helped bring national attention to Aboriginal land rights and contributed to future reforms.
What did the Wik decision find about Native Title and pastoral leases?
They can co-exist.
What was the major impact of the Native Title Amendment Act 1998?
It reduced some Native Title rights and limited the impact of Wik.
What is the main difference between land rights and native title?
Land rights are granted by governments; native title is recognised because it already existed.
Explain one way regaining Country can improve socioeconomic outcomes.
Employment, tourism, ranger programs, cultural strengthening, improved wellbeing or stronger communities.
What is often considered the most significant symbolic protest site in the Aboriginal land rights movement?
The Aboriginal Tent Embassy.
What are the two possible outcomes for Native Title?
It can be recognised or extinguished.
Which NSW Act established Aboriginal Land Councils?
Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW).