Units / APG5354
APG5354 · Indigenous peoples and the state
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Monash Indigenous Studies Centre
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit examines histories of Indigenous policies and Aboriginal affairs through the twentieth century with an emphasis on the ongoing nature of Australian colonialism, the maintenance of power by non-Indigenous governments, and the treatment of Indigenous peoples through policies and governmental practice. It examines issues of colonialism, prejudice and racism, with particular emphasis on the continuities and discontinuities of discourses on 'race', assimilation and cultural difference in Australia, the representation of Indigenous people in the media and political discourse, and policies of multiculturalism and Indigenous people. The value of an interdisciplinary approach to these topics is highlighted.
Offerings
The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.
Assessment
The Handbook publishes no assessment items for this unit yet.
Within semester assessment: 100%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
Learning outcomes
- critically evaluate the relationship between Indigenous Australians and social institutions;
- explain how theories of race and experiences of racism continue to impact upon Indigenous people;
- apply research and research methodologies to issues relating to racism and prejudice in contemporary Australia;
- develop strategies for “writing back” against racialised discourses.
Workload
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.
Ask about APG5354
Answered from the Handbook fields above — no AI, no guessing. Every answer links back to the source.
Community discussions about APG5354
CommunityStudent experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.