Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander child-rearing practices are derived from a body of cultural knowledge specific to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander persons and are defined as incorporating the following.
- Independence
- Responsibility of children at an earlier age
- Cultural authority (within kinship/clan groups)
- Cultural responsibility (passing on of knowledge or skills)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander societal structures have changed and were influenced during the settlement of Australia, beginning with first contact with British settlers through to the present day. The majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been directly or indirectly affected by past Federal and State government policies and interventions. These interventions have contributed to a breakdown in knowledge of child-rearing practices, supportive family kinship and community structures and guidance offered by traditional laws. The influence of past government interventions and policies must be considered holistically when considering child protection concerns.
When working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, it is important to seek to understand strengths of their unique parenting practices and kinship structures, the strengths of community caring, collective decision making and network capabilities surrounding the child and family. Cultural connection is a strong protective factor for keeping children safe within their families, significantly influencing their identity and providing a sense of belonging that will contribute to the child's safety and well-being.