1824
Colony of Moreton Bay
Established as a penal settlement, Moreton Bay brought European settlers to the area, leading to extensive land dispossession and cultural disruption for Aboriginal communities. The colonization process caused significant displacement and long-term impacts on Indigenous populations.
1865
Industrial and Reformatory Schools Act 1865
This Act established special schools in Queensland for neglected children and young offenders under 15, allowing Indigenous children to be sent to these institutions simply for being Aboriginal. Missions were designated as industrial schools, leading to the forced removal of Indigenous children, disrupting families and contributing to the loss of culture and identity.
1897
Aboriginal Protection and Restriction of the Sale of Opium Act 1897
This Queensland Act created the roles of Protectors and Chief Protector, implementing strict control over Aboriginal people by establishing reserves and restricting movement without court oversight. It marked the beginning of a legal system specifically targeting Aboriginal communities, enforcing segregation and contributing to lasting impacts of control and displacement.
1939
Aboriginals Preservation and Protection Act and the Torres Strait Islanders Act 1939
These Acts made the Director of Native Affairs the guardian of all Indigenous children under 21 in Queensland, granting unchecked authority to remove children and control their lives. Although fewer people fell under this control due to a narrower definition of “half blood,” the Director’s power over those affected was significantly expanded, deepening the impact on Indigenous families and communities.
1965
Aborigines’ and Torres Strait Islanders’ Affairs Act 1965
This Act replaced the Director of Native Welfare with the Director of Aboriginal and Island Affairs, ending state guardianship over Indigenous children but retaining powers to forcibly move “assisted” Indigenous people between reserves. Indigenous parents theoretically regained guardianship, but strict control remained, as residents required a “certificate of entitlement” to stay on reserves, subject to cancellation. This Act continued restrictions on Indigenous autonomy and movement.
1965
Children’s Services Act 1965
This Act aimed to protect children’s welfare in Queensland, focusing on cases of neglect or poor living conditions. It became the main law for removing Indigenous children deemed “in need of care and protection,” placing them in institutions or foster care. Missions like Woorabinda and Palm Island were designated as industrial schools, further enabling forced removals and contributing to the Stolen Generations.
1971
Aborigines Act 1971
This Act regulated the management of Aboriginal reserves in Queensland, abolishing the status of “assisted Aborigine.” Admission to reserves was restricted, requiring permission from the Director or Aboriginal Council. It marked a shift toward limited self-governance on reserves but continued to control residency and movement.
1971
Torres Strait Islanders Act 1971
This Act regulated the management of reserves for Torres Strait Islanders in Queensland, abolishing the status of “assisted Islander.” Residency on reserves required permission, with provisions for assistance upon request, reflecting a step toward autonomy while still controlling access and residence.
1984
Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984
This Act created incorporated Community Councils to govern former reserves, granting Torres Strait Islander communities greater administrative and financial control. Enacted in response to Indigenous advocacy for land rights and self-determination, it marked progress toward local governance and autonomy amid national and international pressures for Indigenous rights.