Essential aspects surveyed
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New research asks what a good life looks like for Aboriginal children.
Perspectives gathered from Aboriginal communities in South Australia’s Riverland region reveal that strong connections to culture, land, and family are considered essential for Aboriginal children.
Yet the ongoing surveillance and separation of Aboriginal families create significant obstacles to achieving these outcomes.
The study, conducted through community meetings and yarning circles with local Elders and families, identified the removal or threat of removing children as a profound source of harm.
Participants consistently stressed that true well-being for Aboriginal children requires policies that embrace Aboriginal ways of life and respect cultural traditions.
Insights from the research showed the healing power of cultural and natural connections.
One participant described the importance of returning to Country, saying; “All their needs met, kind, loving warm household, connection to culture, connection to land”.
Another highlighted how being near the River Murray restores balance and calm.
“The water is so calming… It just takes you over, it calms you, it’s everything,” they said.
Essential elements for a good life include access to Elders, gender-specific role models, opportunities to learn language, and time spent outdoors on Country.
Participants shared vivid memories of activities like fishing and yabby hunting, noting their desire for children to experience similar cultural and recreational joys.
At the same time, they emphasised the importance of rules and routines in providing structure and safety.
“Part of love is discipline too,” one participant said.
The research highlights the importance of involving Aboriginal perspectives in policymaking.
A focus on “metic knowledge” - practical wisdom embedded in local traditions - was recommended to better address gaps in education, health, and well-being.
Researchers argued that the capability approach, which considers what individuals and communities value, provides a strong framework for understanding what is needed for Aboriginal children to thrive.
The findings also expose ongoing tensions between cultural obligations and government systems.
Policies on housing, for example, often fail to accommodate extended kinship networks, creating conflicts for families trying to honour cultural practices while meeting regulatory expectations.
Participants called for Aboriginal-controlled organisations to lead service delivery, ensuring support systems are culturally safe and effective.
Despite these challenges, the research offers hope.
It shows the resilience of Aboriginal culture as a protective force for children, where connections to family, land, and heritage remain central to identity and well-being.
By valuing these strengths and centring Aboriginal voices in policy decisions, the experts say Australia can take meaningful steps towards ensuring Aboriginal children are supported to lead good lives.
The full paper is accessible here.
