ABSTRACT
Australia’s record of ill-treatment of its indigenous population leaves it vulnerable to criticism, especially when its leaders speak out on international human rights issues. The Government has made reconciliation between indigenous people and other Australians a major goal. The Mabo decision of the High Court of Australia, which recognizes native title for the country’s indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, is undoubtedly an important moment in the history of their struggles for greater self-determination. The Mabo decision was given a decidedly mixed reception by the Australian populace. Mabo has been generally supported by indigenous Australians, the federal Labor government and many other groups and individuals, who see it as an important step in bringing about a formal and lasting reconciliation between black and white Australians.
