Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People's rights

This is an information hub published by the Australian Human Rights Commission, Australia's independent national human rights body. It brings together materials on the legal rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, both within Australia and under international law. The page is designed to help people understand what those rights are and where to go for support.

The resource explains that First Nations peoples hold unique rights as the Traditional Owners and original Custodians of this land. It points readers to materials on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, an international framework that can be used to protect rights and drive change. It also covers how international bodies engage with Indigenous rights issues globally.

The page includes links to guides, fact sheets, and statistics for those who want a deeper understanding of First Peoples' rights in practice. It also outlines the Commission's own work on truth-telling, reconciliation, and anti-racism, including its national campaign challenging everyday racism.

For anyone who has experienced racial discrimination, the page provides clear guidance on how to make a complaint and access free advice through the Commission's National Information Service. It also lists a range of support services, including legal services, health services, and counselling options for those who find discussing past trauma distressing.

This resource is most useful for First Nations community members, advocates, social enterprise practitioners, and anyone working in roles that involve understanding or upholding the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.