Terms denoting the Indigenous peoples of Australia

Aborigine(s). Some Indigenous peoples of Australia object to being labelled 'Aborigines', because it is a term which was imposed on them by the British colonisers, and because it is the general term for any Indigenous peoples in the world. They prefer to be known by their specific names - see below. Others, however, consider the noun 'Aborigine(s)', which has to be capitalised to be acceptable.

Aboriginal. This adjective was often used as a noun to describe the Indigenous peoples of Australia. As many Indigenous peoples feel this use to be degrading, it should be avoided for this function. Its use as an adjective is acceptable only if it is capitalised, for example the Aboriginal peoples of Australia, Aboriginal languages.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This phrase may be used when referring to the two cultural groups, and should be used consistently throughout the document or discussion.

Indigenous peoples of Australia, Indigenous to this land. This is another term used. Always remember to write the word 'Indigenous' with the first letter capitalised as many Indigenous people find it offensive to do otherwise.

The following are some terms that are used by Indigenous peoples in Australia to refer to themselves. Please note that the spelling may vary:

Preferred Terms

Torres Strait Islanders.
The Indigenous peoples of the Torres Strait Islands have a linguistic and cultural identity, which is different from that of the Indigenous peoples of mainland Australia and Tasmania. The preferred term is Torres Strait Islander, or names of various groups may be used.

Indigenous peoples may also identify in terms of a specific language, clan name or land holding. For example, Tebrikuna (land) and Trawlwoolway (clan) in north-east Tasmania, , Pitjantjatjara and Kaurna in South Australia.

Care should be taken when using these terms to ensure that the reference being made is acceptable to the people you are inferring to. In addition, be aware that there are a range of terms which Aboriginal peoples use to describe themselves, for example, 'black fellas', 'black Coes', which may not be appropriate for non-Aboriginal people to use.

Whenever possible an Aboriginal person or group's preference of title should be used. If in doubt, ask the person or group. At the University of Tasmania, Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education, can be consulted if assistance is required.

Terms to be avoided. The words 'full-blood(s)', 'half-caste'(s), 'part-Aborigine(s)', 'quarter-caste'(s), 'hybrid' are racist and dehumanising terms that have been used to serve discriminatory purposes. Such terminology is unacceptable and must not be used.

"It was only six years ago, a teacher read a book to a group of adult learners which referred to Aboriginal peoples as savages."

Aboriginal Elder 2000

Valuing Aboriginal language and culture

Care should be taken to describe Aboriginal culture, languages and religious activities as having a quality similar to that of non-Aboriginal cultures, languages and religions. Expressions such as 'magic', 'sorcery', 'superstition' which imply an inherent inferior quality when compared with non-Aboriginal (usually white, western) religions and practices must be avoided. The terms 'religious practices', 'rituals', 'religion', 'religious beliefs' are recommended.

Accurate presentations of Australian History

Inclusive Australian history acknowledges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life has always been rich in tradition, with complex social and governing structures developed from a religious base that stems from creation.

Talking about 'when Captain Cook discovered Australia' is not only insulting to the Indigenous people of Australia, but is also incorrect. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were here at least sixty thousand years before the coming of the Europeans. Avoid using texts or materials which perpetuate historic inaccuracies, or which use euphemisms to describe the historical treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For example the phrase 'when Aboriginal people were moved to mission stations", hides the fact that force was used in dislocating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities, from their home land. Seek guidance from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities where available, and always look for and use materials which incorporates an indigenous perspective on history.

"In recent years, in Tasmania, a primary teacher told a child he was lying when he said he was an Aborigine."

Aboriginal staff member