What does a good life look like for Aboriginal children?

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-12-20 03:00

Australia; QLD; SA

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Separation and surveillance of Aboriginal families continues to make it harder for young people to live a good life, according to research with Aboriginal communities in the Riverland, South Australia. The researchers say policies aimed at improving the wellbeing of young First Nations people need to consider Aboriginal perspectives on what a good life looks like. Working with local Aboriginal community groups in the Riverland, two community meetings and eight yarning circles including local Elders and adults from local families, the researchers collected perspectives on what a good life looks like and what is holding young people back. The removal or threat of removal of Aboriginal children from their families was raised as a major barrier, while connection to culture, land and Aboriginal role models, especially of the same gender, were raised as important parts of a good life for young people.