As Victoria and other Australian jurisdictions engage in the early stages of treaty negotiations, the parties involved must have a strong understanding of concepts such as Indigenous sovereignty.

 

This micro-credential explores sovereignty and its place in relations between Indigenous peoples and contemporary settler societies.

 

It's ideal for people who will be involved in treaty negotiations, including professionals in the public, private and non-profit sectors, as well as First Nations.

 

Understand Indigenous sovereignty as a concept and social movement

Engage with theories of sovereignty – and related concepts such as self-determination and autonomy – and examine how this has been understood, historically and today.

 

Explore recognition of Indigenous sovereignty in settler-colonial states

Critically analyse the place of sovereignty discourse in contemporary Indigenous settler relations. Consider how Indigenous sovereignty is recognised, how it differs from political sovereignty, and the possibilities for recognition.

 

Examine how Indigenous sovereignty shapes treaty negotiations

Consider the role Indigenous sovereignty will play in treaty processes in Victoria and other Australian jurisdictions. Analyse and critique expressions of Indigenous sovereignty found in documents advancing emerging treaty processes in these jurisdictions.