A coloniser’s view: On healing and native title reform

Abstract

This article explores, from my perspective as a white person, how the recognition of rights of nature under native title is one mechanism that could contribute to healing from, and moving beyond, colonial Australia. I use ‘listening’ as a methodology, drawing upon the works of Indigenous academics and activists to examine the need for reform to native title and the responsibilities of non-Indigenous people to contribute to healing Country. The article concludes that the recognition of rights of nature would be a meaningful form of healing, for both Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous peoples in an era of climate change.