'Indigenous' (capitalised) is a term extensively used throughout Australia when referring to the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia, and related topics. The term is merely used for convenience, to alleviate repeating 'Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander'.
both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, use terms such as 'First Nations Australians', 'First Australians' or 'Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples'.
First Nations and First Peoples
Other pluralised terms such as 'First Nations' or 'First Peoples' are also acceptable language, and respectfully encompass the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and identities.
More appropriate
Aboriginal language people terms such as 'Koori', 'Murri', 'Nyoongah' are appropriate for the areas where they apply. About 80% of the Torres Strait Island population now resides outside the Torres Strait and as such, local terminology such as Murray Island Peoples and Mer Island Peoples is also used.
'First Nations,''Aboriginal,' and more recently, 'Indigenous' are more current and are preferred by many in the community, though each has particular nuances.
The abbreviation 'ATSI' when used to describe people may cause offense and should not be used in internal or external documents or in conversation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Although it is grammatically correct, the term 'Aborigine(s)' has negative connotations and should be avoided.
Wherever possible, though, you should use the specific names of the Nations and communities, especially if you are acknowledging territory and identity. In Canada, the accepted term for people who are Indigenous and who do not identify as Inuit or Métis is First Nations.
The term Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples or the person's specific cultural group, is often preferred, though the terms First Nations of Australia, First Peoples of Australia and First Australians are also increasingly common; 812,728 people self-identified as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait ...
The term 'Indigenous' and using the acronym ATSI can be offensive." It is also a term the government imposed and used as a category. Avoid using this term. I am not an Aboriginal, or indeed indigenous, I am ... [a] First Nation's person.
Indigenous comes from the Latin word indigena, which means “sprung from the land; native.” Therefore, using “Indigenous” over “Aboriginal” reinforces land claims and encourages territory acknowledgements, a practice which links Indigenous Peoples to their land and respects their claims over it.
Respect addresses the dignity of people, and encompasses the honouring and valuing of who they are as a unique person. Inherent in the overarching principle of respect is the honouring of rights, autonomy, choice, worthiness, uniqueness, and self-determination.
However, keep in mind that eye contact can make Aboriginal people feel awkward and they may look the other way. Some Aboriginal people may consider direct eye contact a sign of hostility, or bad manners . Speak directly to the client/patient so he/she can see your facial expression, and you can see his/hers.
According to the UN the most fruitful approach is to identify, rather than define indigenous peoples. preference for other terms including tribes, first peoples/nations, aboriginals, ethnic groups, adivasi, janajati.
The term Native is often used officially or unofficially to describe indigenous peoples from the United States (Native Americans, Native Hawaiians, Alaska Natives), but it can also serve as a specific descriptor (Native people, Native lands, Native traditions, etc.).
'Walkabout' for many First Nations people is a contentious word and considered an archaic colonial term. Its use by non-Aboriginal people is considered inappropriate.
Use formal addresses when interacting with older people and Elders—or ask them how they wish to be acknowledged. Always wait your turn to speak. It is important to be a good listener and not to talk over anyone. Avoid direct criticisms of specific individuals.
Building an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within the broader population is crucial to Indigenous people's health, social, economic and emotional wellbeing, and the overall unity and pride of our nation.
Offensive names
However many may not be aware that shortening the term 'Aboriginal' to 'Abo' is highly offensive to Indigenous people due to historical usage and is considered a derogatory term, as 'Koon' or 'Boong' are. It's best to avoid these slurs in general.
This allows us to better understand how health issues for Indigenous Australians might be the same as, or different to, other Australians.
'Aborigine' is generally perceived as insensitive, because it has racist connotations from Australia's colonial past, and lumps people with diverse backgrounds into a single group. You're more likely to make friends by saying 'Aboriginal person', 'Aboriginal' or 'Torres Strait Islander'.