In 2009, United Nations special rapporteur James Anaya visited Australia to compile a report on the treatment of indigenous peoples. Specifically, he analysed the extent to which the human rights of indigenous communities have been respected. On balance, the report praises the efforts made by the Australian government but also points to a number of areas where Aboriginal people are still placed at an unfair disadvantage. Following the report I will briefly summarise just some of the historic and contemporary problems faced by indigenous communities in Australia.

• Between 1910 and 1970, at least 100,000 indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families. These children came to be known as the “Stolen Generation”.

• Aboriginal people have gradually been dispossessed of their land, with little or no compensation provided by the Government. Beyond its economic significance, the land forms part of the cultural and spiritual identity of indigenous communities.

• Failure to consult Aboriginal people when deciding policy on heritage sites.

• Insufficient healthcare: life expectancy is 17 years lower for indigenous people than for non-indigenous.

• Overcrowded housing, homelessness, and generally poor housing conditions.

• High levels of incarceration – nearly 25% of Australia’s prison population consists of indigenous people.

• Revocation of powers of self-determination, in response to alcoholism and anti-social behaviour.

• Many indigenous people live in remote areas; therefore special provisions are required to provide adequate healthcare, schooling, employment and housing.

These problems are the reality of everyday life for many thousands of indigenous people, not just in Australia, but around the world.