Understand Indigenous governance overview

In this section, we explain what governance means and look at the different types of governance – Indigenous, community, corporate and organisational. We explain what effective governance is and the importance of governance to self-determination.
 

Defining governance

Governance is the way that people organise themselves to achieve a shared goal. We look at the 8 elements of governance that need to work together to be effective. We also explain the different stages of governance that organisations go through.

→ Defining governance
 

Indigenous governance

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been practising governance since time began. What makes it Indigenous governance is the role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture plays. We look at what this means and the common features of Indigenous governance.

→ Indigenous governance
 

Governance lingo

Governance and government sound really similar, but they are not the same thing. We explain why. We also explain the difference between organisational, corporate, community and Indigenous governance.

→ Governance lingo
 

Self-determination and governance

Governance is a foundational structure that can be used to build strong self-determined practices. We explore what self-determination means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and how it can bring real change.

→ Self-determination and governance
 

Effective Indigenous governance

Effective governance means having rules, structures and processes capable of achieving your objectives. We look at AIGI’s principles for effective Indigenous governance, and 3 other models that can be customised to meet your needs.

→ Effective Indigenous governance