Aboriginal Land Rights in Australia - 1461 Words

Terra Nullius was once apparent in Australian society, but has now been nullified with the turn of the century and the changes of societal attitudes. With the political changes in our society, and the apology to Indigenous Australians, society is now witnessing an increase in aboriginals gaining a voice in today’s society. Kevin Rudd’s apology as described by Pat Dodson (2006) as a seminal moment in Australia’s history, expressed the true spirit of reconciliation opening a new chapter in the history of Australia. Although from this reconciliation, considerable debate has arisen within society as to whether Aboriginals have a right to land of cultural significance. Thus, causing concern for current land owners, as to whether they will be†¦show more content†¦This decision left pastoralists unsure of their right to land, however the National Indigenous Working Group (NIWG) accepted that existing rights of pastoralists to operate and develop their leases wi thout any need to negotiate with native title holders. This provides pastoralists with the ‘certainty’ that they had before the Wik decision. Recently, Indigenous land owners on May 23, 2011 had the Federal Court of Australia rule that over 26,000 square kilometres in Western Australia’s north Kimberley region was an indigenous protected area. This decision has allowed indigenous members of the community to progress forward and create benefits for themselves and their community. In making the decisions of such acts, many societal viewpoints would have been considered. In establishing an act, the stakeholder’s positions would need to be considered in order to ensure an equitable legislation for the majority of society. Stakeholders recognised by the law include: All registered native title bodies corporate in relation to land or waters in the area (Austlii: 1993). Pastoralists involved in relation to current land owners. Government bodies; influence the execution of laws and policies on members of society. Once a decision is passed, it can be used as precedent in future cases and therefore the decisions passed must have due consideration. An organisation that educates society on the issues of IndigenousShow MoreRelated Aboriginal Land Rights within Australia Essay1885 Words   |  8 Pagessociety is now witnessing an increase in aboriginals gaining a voice in today’s society. Described by Pat Dodson (2006) as a seminal moment in Australia’s history, Rudd’s apology was expressed in the true spirit of reconciliation open ing a new chapter in the history of Australia. Considerable debate has arisen within society as to whether aboriginals have a right to land that is of cultural significance and whether current land owners will be able to keep their land. An issue facing society is whetherRead MoreEssay Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders1586 Words   |  7 PagesAboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have faced disadvantages in various areas, particularly housing. The disadvantages these people face now are the result of policies introduced by the European settlers, then the government. The policies introduced were protection, assimilation, integration and self-determination. 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