Indigenous
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are the original inhabitants of this continent, possessing a rich cultural heritage dating back more than 65,000 years. The arrival of British colonisers in 1788 marked the beginning of significant displacement, violence, and dispossession of Indigenous peoples from their lands, including assimilation policies that resulted in the Stolen Generations.
Today, the disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians is evident across various social indicators, including health, education, employment, and incarceration rates.
Documentaries provide a platform for First Nations voices, narratives, and perspectives to be heard while also informing and educating audiences about the history, struggles, and contemporary issues faced by for First Nations communities. They often feature Indigenous activists, community leaders, and organisations advocating for Indigenous rights, self-determination, and social justice.
Documentaries can also focus on initiatives and success stories within First Nations communities, showcasing efforts to improve education outcomes, preserve languages, and empower young Indigenous people. These stories highlight the resilience, strength, and achievements of individuals and communities in the face of adversity.
Completed Documentary Australia-supported Indigenous-themed projects:
| The Australian Wars | In My Blood It Runs | The Final Quarter |
| Where to watch: SBS | Where to watch: Netflix, Apple TV, Vimeo | Where to watch: Netflix, Doc Play |
| Zach’s Ceremony | Undermined: Tales from the Kimberley | Voices of the River |
| Where to watch: BINGE, DocPlay, Apple TV | Where to watch: Apple TV, Google Play, DocPlay , Vimeo | Where to watch: Facebook, Instagram |
Films that need your support
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Steven McGregor
First Nations men show defiance towards racism, to love and care for themselves and their families.
In remote Ntaria, getting teens to school is hard - with horses they found a way - until bureaucracy stepped in.
Jason De Santolo
A journey into fire: Fire Country is a transformative exploration of Indigenous fire knowledge and wisdom in action.
Pauline Clague
Molly unearths the secrets of her famous Colleano family, Aboriginal royalty in the circus world of a bygone era.
Charlie Hill-Smith
An ancient songline, smashed & lost to colonial invasion, is about to be sung again.
Kimberley Benjamin
Kalinda learns about traditional birthing practices so she can re-imagine a future for herself, her family and community
Krunal Padhiar
A group of Indigenous youth on a road trip to commemorate their past, becomes a turning point to redefine their future.
AACTA Award winning director Larissa Behrendt
The Yirrkala Bark Petitions sparked the flame towards recognition of Aboriginal rights and one of them is coming home.
