Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1998
Volume
29
Journal
Australian Historical Studies
Issue
111
First Page
248
Last Page
266
URL with Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10314619808596072
Abstract
This paper considers arguments in favour of federal responsibility for indigenous affairs provided to the 1927-29 Royal Commission on the Constitution. Various humanitarian organisations, including women's groups, argued that the future of the Aborigines in Australia was a matter of national importance and was above state and federal politics. Constitutional acknowledgement of Aboriginal Australians as the original owners of the land would mark Australia's progress as a modern nation
