The recognition of the distinct rights of indigenous peoples is essential to the eradication of racism and the full and equal enjoyment of our human rights. The full enjoyment of human rights, however, requires commitment and effort on the part of all Governments. However, the existence of obligations, legislative measures and diplomatic assurances alone does not ensure the enjoyment of rights in practice. The reality is that indigenous peoples in all parts of the world, both in the North and the South, continue to suffer gross and systematic violations of their human rights. The situation for indigenous peoples in Australia is no different from that of our brothers and sisters around the world.
Racism continues as a powerful force in the Australian community.
Racism in Australia is not merely confined to acts of isolated vilification but pervades our political and legal institutions. Not only do Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face disadvantage in relation to the provision of basic services, but we also face serious impediments to the full enjoyment of our social and cultural rights. This experience of racism is the product of a history of colonization which removed people from their land and sought to destroy Aboriginal and Torres Strait cultures and communities. This history and perpetuation of racism in Australia has a significant impact on the daily lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The life expectancy of indigenous peoples in Australia is almost 20 years less than that of non-indigenous Australians.