M2 - Learner Manual

6. Continuing Shift in Perspectives

The continuing shift in perspectives on Native Title has meant that more people are accessing and asserting their right to Native title, as well as returning or reconnecting to country in a way that they had not been able to do before legislation was enacted.

There also has been a change in mainstream Australia about Indigenous people in this country. This is particularly apparent as it relates to culture and Indigenous people’s access and expression of culture. Non-Indigenous Australians are uniting with Aboriginal people to assist them in regaining their culture and rights. Government policies and programs are developing, which ideally, will reflect this shift.

Indigenous education is now being offered through courses in schools, colleges and universities in order for people to understand Australia’s First People. This is an invitation to engage in more purposeful and meaningful ways, which benefit Indigenous people, their communities and country.

Today policies move and shift with government, however, Indigenous people must continue to assert their right to land and social justice.