Second reading speech of the Aborigines Protection Act 1909 in the NSW Legislative Council by the Hon. J Hughes.

Aborigines Protection Bill 1909 (NSW) - Second reading, Legislative Council, 17 December 1909

Dispossession and displacement of Aboriginal people separated them from their Country and culture. This had a significant impact on Aboriginal languages.

Impact of 'protection' and assimilation laws 

The Aborigines Protection Act 1909 (NSW) was the first law in NSW that specifically authorised the removal of Aboriginal children from their families. It continued to exercise control over Aboriginal people and their children until 1969. Separate systems of child welfare existed for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children throughout this period.

'Protection' and assimilation era child removals

The government often removed Aboriginal children from missions and reserves, with the aim of assimilating them into a ‘civilised life’. Children were often placed on government-controlled stations, into homes and into apprenticeships. Removing children under specific laws and policies for Aboriginal children persisted until the late 1960s.

Missions, reserves and stations

Many Aboriginal people were forced to live on government-managed stations and reserves. They were often considered to be legally disqualified from voting because they were in receipt of charitable aid.

Disqualification from voting due to receiving charitable aid 

From 1909, the Aborigines Protection Board and later the Aborigines Welfare Board had control over the labour of Aboriginal people living on reserves and could remove people from reserves if they determined they should be working off the reserve. Labour on reserves was often for no pay, unfair pay or...

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Aborigines Protection Bill 1909 (NSW) - Second reading, Legislative Council, 17 December 1909

Impact of 'protection' and assimilation laws

'Protection' and assimilation era child removals

Missions, reserves and stations

Disqualification from voting due to receiving charitable aid

Adult labour under the Aborigines Protection Act