This book explores the legal issues arising from the coexistence in Australia of distinct societies with distinct laws. The authors share a belief that the law has contributed to the disadvantaged position of indigenous communities, but that the law also has a key role to play in the search for solutions towards reconciliation. The book examines the present socio-economic position of indigenous Australians & examines the successive phases of government policies. Other aspects covered in detail include the nature of indigenous laws, dispute resolution processes, the jurisprudence of colonialism, the survival/revival of indigenous political rights, land rights, native title, racial discrimination, criminal justice & child welfare. A final chapter surveys a number of outstanding issues of social justice & reconciliation. Aboriginal Studies pp. 732 #180216