Handbook

This course provides students with a theoretical approach to better understand the topic of identity formation for Australia's Indigenous peoples. It starts with the proposition that an individual learns an identity over the life course. During this process individuals are socialised in culture shaped by the broader milieu. This is where prominent resources including history, race, policy, legislation and national identity have informed the construction and evolution of the Aboriginal identity concept. In this context 'Aboriginality' is an ongoing colonial project that Indigenous peoples draw from to construct their identity. The challenges that 'Aboriginality' presents for Indigenous peoples and Australian governments becomes the focus point of this course.