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Each year on 3 June, we acknowledge Mabo Day, a significant moment in Australian history that marks the High Court’s landmark 1992 decision recognising the land rights of the Meriam people of Mer (Murray Island). Led by Eddie Koiki Mabo, alongside fellow plaintiffs Reverend David Passi, Sam Passi, James Rice, and Celuia Mapo Sale, this historic ruling overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius—the notion that Australia was land belonging to no one prior to British settlement. In its place, the court recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have enduring rights to land through their own laws and customs. This decision remains a cornerstone of native title in Australia and a powerful step toward truth, justice, and acknowledgement. “Tag Mauki mauki, Teter mauki mauki” Your hands and your feet must not take you to steal what is other people’s. — Reverend David Passi, Murray Island Plaintiff Mabo Day provides an important opportunity to reflect on the ongoing connection of First Nations peoples to Country, and to recognise the resilience, culture, and custodianship that have existed for tens of thousands of years. At IPS Management, we acknowledge the significance of this day and encourage continued learning, respect, and meaningful engagement with First Nations histories and perspectives. If you want to have a yarn about Cultural Capability reach out to our team. Comments are closed.
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