Program Overview

LLB203 - Indigenous Peoples, Law and Society

Overview

The unit looks at Australian law as it relates to Indigenous peoples and how it has evolved to the present day. It therefore situates law in its historical and contemporary contexts. The purpose and origins, and role of Anglo-Australian law in Indigenous-European relations are examined. In addition, Indigenous perspectives on Australian law and reforms are also a focus. Students will be able to examine the underlying rationale and purpose of law as it operates and think critically about its purpose and impact as it relates to Indigenous peoples.

Offerings

• Teaching period code: Semester 1-S1
  • Location: Murdoch
  • Attendance mode: Face to Face
  • Start year: 2025
  • End year: -
  • Self enrol: Yes

Requisites

Prerequisite

• BJU100: 3 cp, Australian Legal System
• OR
• LLB100: 6 cp, Foundations of Law

Exclusion

• LEG203: 3 cp, Indigenous Peoples, Law and Society

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of the reasoning and contexts in which Australian law operates and has operated in relation to Indigenous peoples in Australia.
2. Analyse and evaluate different perspectives on the law utilising set readings.
3. Identify, discuss and analyse legal issues relating to Indigenous people.
4. Effectively research a range of legal and non-legal sources to develop logical and reasoned arguments.
5. Be able to reflect on and to effectively communicate your findings.

Unit Content

The unit examines the purpose and origins, and role of Anglo-Australian law in Indigenous-European relations. Topics include:

• Indigenous participation in legal decision-making and legal process
• The impact of law on Indigenous peoples
• Indigenous perspectives on law
• Constitutional legal issues
• Land and native title
• The role of Aboriginal customary law

Unit Details

• Unit version: 20
• Version start date: 01/01/2026
• Owning college: College of Law, Arts and Social Sciences
• Owning school: Law and Criminology
• Credit points: 3