Every year, Australians observe National Reconciliation Week between two dates that signify major shifts in the nation's legal relationship with its First Peoples. What specific legal change occurred on the final day of this observance, June?
- The High Court recognized the native title rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by overturning the myth of 'terra nullius.'Answer
- BThe Australian Constitution was amended to count Indigenous Australians in the national census and allow the federal government to legislate for them.
- CThe Prime Minister delivered a formal apology to the families affected by the forced removal of children during the century.
Answer
The correct answer is the recognition of native title rights and the overturning of 'terra nullius' by the High Court.
The High Court's Mabo decision on June is the milestone that marks the end of National Reconciliation Week. This landmark ruling was legally significant because it rejected the concept of 'terra nullius' and recognized that Indigenous Australians had a prior and continuing spiritual and custodial connection to the land (native title).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The legal milestones of National Reconciliation Week ( Referendum and Mabo Decision).
Hints
1
National Reconciliation Week is framed by two specific dates in history: May and June. Focus on the later date.
2
The event on June happened in and involved a major ruling by the High Court of Australia regarding land.
3
Think about the court case led by Eddie Mabo. What was the central legal concept the court overturned?
Practice More
Review the specific powers granted to the Commonwealth Government following the Referendum to understand the significance of the week's starting date.
Estimated Time:1m 30s