What criteria is used to determine a person's aboriginality?

Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage is personal to the individual. You don't need to prove that you are an Indigenous Australian.

However, Government agencies and community organisations will, in some cases, request proof of aboriginality when applying for Indigenous-specific services or programs.

In this cases, three ‘working criteria’ as confirmation of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage are requested. These are:

1. being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
2. identifying as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person
3. being accepted as such by the community in which you live, or formerly lived.

For more information, visit AIATSIS’ page on proof of aboriginality.