Historical
Name the most significant historical event which impacted Australia's Indigenous people
Colonisation, the arrival of the British in Australia during 1770. This severely disrupted Indigenous societies leading to violence, displacement, and loss of culture which is still felt today.
What is colonialism?
Colonialism refers to the British settlement and expansion from 1788, which led to the displacement, marginalization, and cultural disruption of First Nations peoples.
What is assimilation, and what years did it occur?
Assimilation is the process whereby Indigenous people and immigrants relinquish their culture and become indistinguishable from the Anglo-Australian dominant group. It occurred through 1950's to early 1970's. (Holmes, D. Hughes. K., Julian, R., Melbourne, Victoria, Pearson Australia 2015)
What was happening to Aboriginal children during the assimilation phase?
The Stolen Generation - During the assimilation phase, many Aboriginal children were being taken from their parents by the Australian Federal and state government, and being then placed with white families. The government believed that their lives would be improved. However it resulted in them having no access to their own culture. (1910-1970s)
During the 1830s-1940s, which act detached Indigenous Australians from their land?
Segregation- The establishment of reserves and missions during the 'protection' era. These were sectioned off areas designed to isolate Indigenous people from their traditional lands and cultures.
How has colonisation contributed to ongoing health disparities experienced by Indigenous Australians?
Statistically, Indigenous Australians have greater rates of heart disease, diabetes, addiction, and poor mental health. These disparities stemmed from the long-term effects of colonisation, causing disruption to their traditional lifestyles, and the introduction of Western systems disregarding Indigenous voice.
Government Policies
Protection & Assimilation Policies (1800s–1970s)
Segregation & Discrimination
Education Restrictions
Land Rights & Recognition
Mabo Decision (1992)
Intervention & Welfare Policies
What were the results of the Mabo decision?
In 1992, the high court decided to overturn terra nullius, leading them to legally recognise Indigenous Australian's connection to the land.
Cultural Identity
Social Impact
Disconnection from Community, Loss of Language, Erosion of Traditional Knowledge
Economic Impact, Land Dispossession, Limited Employment Opportunities
Psychological Impact - Identity Crisis, Mental Health Struggles, Intergenerational Trauma