Australia's Diverse Peoples : A Reference Sourcebook

The only reference work of its kind to fully explore the history, current status, and potential future of ethnic diversity in Australia.

From early Aboriginal society and white colonialism to massive postwar immigration and the recent intake of Asian and Middle Eastern immigrants, Australia's ethnic history, beset with complexity and contradictions, has vacillated between periods of intolerance and acceptance, conflict and cooperation.

Since 1975 Australia has stood as a role model for experiments in national multiculturalism.

Australia's Diverse Peoples explores the intricacies of a nation which has both shunned and embraced ethnic diversity since white colonists first arrived on its soil in the 1780s.

Beginning with an exploration of historical events and conflicts that resulted in extreme opposition to non-white immigration, this unique reference then delves into the 20th centurym- the immigration Restriction Act, discriminatory Aboriginal assimilation efforts, post-war assisted immigration, and the influx of Asian and Middle Eastern refugees that virtually put an end to white Australia.

Wrapping with a discussion of the ongoing debates regarding contemporary Australian society and its future, the work reveals that while Australia is embracing globalization, issues regarding its ailing Aboriginal population remain unresolved, and efforts to restrict immigration based on economic considerations has shifted the policy from one based on race to one based on class.