What’s it about?

This course introduces you to a number of issues that impact upon or are of concern to contemporary Indigenous Australians. You will investigate human rights and how Indigenous Australians have struggled to gain their rights over the course of the twentieth century. You will gain an understanding of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Native Title & Heritage Protection and responses by governments. You will also be introduced to a number of issues that impact upon or are of concern to contemporary Indigenous Australians, including Indigenous health. Understanding the Human Rights of Indigenous Australians is important for working towards reconciliation with First Nations world-wide.

What will I learn?

You will be introduced to the following topics:

• Indigenous Australian peoples and human rights

• Native title and heritage protection

• Indigenous Australian health and well-being

What’s involved?

This course is designed as an introductory level to the Australian Indigenous culture and is self-paced allowing you flexibility in your study. You will work your way through readings and activities. Your learning is guided by a series of icons that reflect the importance of the Indigenous culture. For example, a campground signifies a place to stop, reflect or undertake a task. The clapsticks keep time to a song that contain important knowledge. They indicate key ideas.

Prerequisites?

Everyone is welcome to participate in this course. An internet connection and basic web browsing skills are recommended with the ability to create a blog/journal for you to use during the course.  

Image credit:  Charles Sturt University published with permission from Aunty Beryl Philp Carmichael, Ngiyeempaa Elder, CC-BY-SA