Unfinished Business

Reconciliation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples has been a perennial issue for Australians since the British invaded Australia shores. It is still the unfinished business of the Australian nation. This publication maps the various interpretations and meanings of reconciliation in the current Australian socio-political context. It provides insights into such controversial debates on the nature of Australian history, the stolen generations and the possibility of a treaty with Australia s Indigenous peoples. Within this context Education is a key pathway to bridging the gap between cultures. This book examines how schools are implementing programs on Aboriginal cultures that contribute to the process of reconciliation. It identifies factors which act as enhancers of reconciliation programs in schools and factors which are seen as barriers. It explores community attitudes to reconciliation and outlines effective programs and strategies that promote reconciliation. These factors often involve human agency and human relationships such as a supportive school executive team, committed teachers and a responsive school community