The Original Australians

Everything you'd like to know about Indigenous Australia past and present, presented in an accessible, authoritative and straightforward style. An updated edition of a national bestseller.


The Original Australians tells the story of Australian Indigenous history and society from its distant beginnings to the present day. From the wisdom and paintings of the Dreamtime to the first contact between Europeans and First Nations† Australians, through to the Uluru Statement, it offers an insight into the life and experiences of the world's oldest surviving culture. The resilience and adaptability of Indigenous people over millennia is one of the great human stories of all time. 


Josephine Flood answers the questions that Australians and visitors often ask about Aboriginal Australia: Where did the Indigenous people come from and when? How did they survive in Australia's harsh environment? What was the traditional role of indigenous women? What are land rights? How do First Nations people maintain their culture today? And many more. 


This bestselling account has been updated and is fascinating reading for anyone who wants to discover Indigenous Australia. 


'. . . an intriguing and accessible history for anyone, from overseas visitors to Australians . . .' Sydney Morning Herald 


'This is the best book to give someone who wants to know about Indigenous Aboriginal people, their survival through the millennia, and the experiences they have to contribute to modern Australia.' Emeritus Professor Campbell Macknight, Australian National University 


Dr Josephine Flood is a prominent archaeologist, recipient of the Centenary Medal and former director of the Aboriginal Heritage section of the Australian Heritage Commission. She is the author of the influential Archaeology of the Dreamtime and The Riches of Ancient Australia.