Social Engineers and Bystanders: The Limits of ‘Responsibility’ in Indigenous Affairs

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: A significant shift is occurring in Australian Indigenous affairs. Contentiously, key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders have challenged governments and organizations, both mainstream and Indigenous, to confront 'passive welfare dependence'. This paper explores some of the social justice implications and considers the roles of non-Indigenous professionals. METHODS: A publication by Pat Dodson and Noel Pearson is used to frame the discussion. RESULTS: Ambiguity surrounding a number of key concepts and the shifting territory of Indigenous rights has contributed to bureaucratic inertia in Indigenous affairs. A range of 'new' concepts is being introduced into the current debate, such as expectancy, reciprocity and mutual obligation, challenging ideas of responsibility, agency and the roles played by non-Indigenous bureaucrats and practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of good intentions or social justice motivations, non-Indigenous interventions must be informed by an awareness of the potential to undermine Indigenous agency and, consequently, cause harm.

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