Aboriginal People and Law

Description

This course explores the impacts of the legal histories and contemporary issues faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in an Australian legal context. Students will gain an understanding of British colonial law as a tool of colonisation and invasion. The course examines several legal cases, the doctrine of terra nullius, criminalisation, and Black deaths in custody. The course also examines contemporary social and economic issues stemming from broader colonial legal systems including the over- representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the criminal justice system, child protection, youth justice, land rights and Native Title. In considering remedies, the course highlights the importance of self-determination in solutions such as circle sentencing, justice reinvestment and other community-based approaches. All ABOR courses are developed in alignment with the Wollotuka Institute’s Cultural Standards Framework, ensuring respect for cultural principles and practices.