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What is the difference between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?

Aboriginal peoples are the first peoples of mainland Australia and Tasmania. Torres Strait Islanders are the first peoples of the islands between the tip of Queensland and Papua New Guinea. They are two distinct groups, each with their own cultures, languages and histories, and each includes many separate communities.

Aboriginal peoples are not one group. When the British arrived in 1788 there were more than 250 distinct languages spoken across the continent, each tied to its own territory. People usually identify by their own nation or language group, such as Wiradjuri, Yolŋu or Noongar.

Torres Strait Islanders have Melanesian cultural roots and are seafaring peoples, with close historic ties to Papua New Guinea. Their home islands lie in the strait north of Cape York in Queensland. Many now live on the Australian mainland. They have their own flag, as do Aboriginal peoples.

The full phrase 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' is used to respect both groups. 'First Nations' and 'First Peoples' are also widely used. 'Aborigine' is considered outdated and is best avoided. About 812,000 people identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander in the 2021 census, 3.2% of Australia's population.

Words used here

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoplesCountryNative titleTerra nullius

Sources

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