Tasmanian Aboriginal-specific legislation
The following legislation is specific to Tasmanian Aboriginal people or contains provisions for Aboriginal people and acknowledges Aboriginal culture in Tasmania.
Constitution Act 1934
In 2016 the Constitution Act was amended to recognise Aboriginal people as Tasmania’s First People.
Stolen Generations of Aboriginal Children Act 2006
Tasmania was the first state or territory in Australia to pass legislation to provide payments to members of the Stolen Generations of Aboriginal people and their children.
Aboriginal Heritage Act 1975
Aboriginal Lands Act 1995
Legislation that provides for the establishment of the Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania, election of members and the return of land to the Tasmanian Aboriginal community.
Burial and Cremation Act 2019
Contains provisions for the use of Aboriginal land for Aboriginal cremations.
Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act 1997
Contains provisions relating to Aboriginal children.
Coroners Act 1995
Contains provisions relating to Aboriginal remains.
National Parks and Reserves Management Act 2002
Contains provisions relating to an Aboriginal member of a Conservation Membership Trust and others that may be of interest relating to cultural, land and heritage matters.
Nature Conservation Act 2002
Contains provisions that may be of interest relating to cultural, land and heritage matters.
Youth Justice Act 1997
Contains provisions relating to Aboriginal youth.
Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995
Contains provisions relating to Aboriginal cultural activities (fishing or gathering).
Commission for Children and Young People Act 2025
The establishment of a Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People represents a significant first for Tasmania. As a dedicated Aboriginal-led initiative, the role will centre the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal children and young people. It is a step towards advancing the rights and wellbeing of Aboriginal children and young people across Tasmania, ensuring their interests are championed through culturally informed practices and community views.
