What do young fellas reckon? Exploring the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in native title

Abstract

Registered native title bodies corporate (PBCs) are responsible for protecting and managing native title rights and interests on behalf of the native title group. PBCs conduct the chosen activities of the group and also act as the first contact point for government and other parties wishing to undertake activities on native title lands. Succession planning and knowledge transmission are integral to the long-term sustainability of those organisations and the native title system. A key aspect of effective succession planning is engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the business of native title. The research informing this paper engaged directly with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about their experiences of native title. This paper reveals a number of emerging issues for the native title sector and related fields such as governance, land and water management, and the wider community sector. Key insights in this paper include the evolving ways in which connections to country and culture are being experienced; the importance of active and ongoing support and mentorship; and the need for improved access to native title knowledge and information. Show more