Aboriginal criminal justice

Abstract

Early and repeated encounters with a white dominated criminal justice system are a fact of life for many young Aboriginals. As this report shows, these encounters lead with remorseless frequency to later adulthood experiences with imprisonment.

Breaking the cycle of despair and degradation represents one of the most pressing tasks confronting our nation. At present the structure and stability of Aboriginal families and communities is being devastated by violence, much of it involving alcohol. So great is the mistrust and hostility felt by Aboriginal people towards the symbols of white justice that redress for injuries resulting from this violence is often sought through vengeance crime.

It is suggested that a fundamental prerequisite for changing this situation is the enhancement of the quality of Aboriginal life. As a complement and support for major economic, social and legal advancement for Aboriginal people the report recommends the re-empowerment of Aboriginals in numerous areas of crime prevention and the administration of justice.