Treaty

The leading book on the treaty debate in Australia has been fully revised. This second edition takes a fresh look at modern treaty-making between Indigenous peoples and governments in Australia. Exploring the why, where, and how of treaty, it concludes by offering seven strategies for achieving treaty.

A number of significant developments have occurred since the publication of the first edition. In Australia, key events include the emergence of State and Territory driven treaty processes, the negotiation and finalisation of the Noongar Settlement, and the delivery of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. International and comparative standards also continue to evolve. In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, while Canada and New Zealand continue to negotiate a range of claims involving land and other points of difference.

Treaty presents readers with everything they need to know about treaties, from the basic question of “what is a treaty?” to “how have other countries negotiated treaties?”. It challenges the reader to question whether Australia should go down the treaty path; a path that could lead to political settlements that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and address the injustices at the heart of the Australian state.

“This new edition will remain a rich resource for Aboriginal leaders and allies working to advance the rights of our communities.” – Jill Gallagher AO

“Williams and Hobbs remind us of the importance of a national framework treaty or agreement, and how it would allow Indigenous communities and other local, regional, state and territory stakeholders to sign treaties in line with a national minimum standard. Their book is akin to a manual as to why we need treaty and how we do treaty.” – Michael Dodson AM