For most of Australia's colonial history Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders have been denied full membership of Australian society. This book examines the history of indigenous peoples' citizenship status and asks, is it possible for indigenous Australians to be members of a common society on equal terms with others? Leading commentators from a range of disciplines examine historical conceptions of indigenous civil rights, consider issues arising from recent struggles for equality and consider possibilities for multicultural citizenship that recognise difference. Topics include self-determination, the 1967 referendum, resource development, whether Australian Aborigines and white Australians can belong, the international law context, and sovereignty. This book makes a crucial intervention in current debates by providing the context for understanding struggles over distinctive indigenous rights.

‘This important book challenges the reader to address the full complexity of the concept of indigenous citizenship.’

Tony Bauman Source: Indigenous Law Bulletin

‘… a comprehensive and well-grounded view of citizenship, making a timely and intelligent contribution to an issue which is foundational to negotiations between mainstream Australia and its indigenous population.’

Source: The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute