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Indigenous Australians and Diversity

Even before the arrival of the First Fleet to Australian shores, our continent had a vibrant wealth of cultural diversity within its first peoples. Some 500 - 700 Aboriginal nations existed, each with their own systems of government, languages, cultural practices, religions and traditions. The physical location of Aboriginal nations also influenced the diversity in lifestyles, whether it be in coastal areas, near rivers, in mountain ranges or in desert regions. Aboriginal nations traded with other nations and countries; sharing technology, knowledge and experiences. The efficient communication between nations, despite language difference, meant that Aboriginal nations were aware of the arrival of Europeans before contact.

The impact of historical events in Australia since 1788 further added to the diversity of Aboriginal nations, such as the impact of settlers and missions. In the early 1870s the peoples of the Torres Strait Islands became part of Australia, adding their own vibrant cultures to Australia's rich Indigenous diversity.

Australian Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islander nations have always taken great pride in their diverse identities as can be seen each year in celebrations during National Aboriginal and Islander Day of Commemoration (NAIDOC) Week. Today, within the space of 80 kilometres you can still pass through the territories of three languages less closely related than English, Russian and Hindu. (www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au and The Oxford Companion to Australian History, 1998)

To find out more about the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures you can:

Visit:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centres
• Museums
• Schools, Universities and local libraries

Search the following websites:

• Australian Governments' Culture and Recreation Portal - www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au
• Australian Museum - www.dreamtime.net.au
• National Museum of Australia - www.nma.gov.au

Information for Indigenous People:

• Your Right to a Fair Go brochures