The original inhabitants of Australia are known as Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders. These two groups are often collectively referred to as "Indigenous Australians".
Aboriginal Australians
Aboriginal Australians are the descendants of the first people who arrived in Australia from Southeast Asia more than 50,000 years ago. They have lived in Australia continuously since that time, and developed diverse and sophisticated cultures and traditions. Aboriginal Australians are often referred to by their language group or nation. Some of the major Aboriginal language groups include:
* Aranda
* Gundijtmara
* Koori
* Murri
* Noongar
* Yamatji
* Yorta Yorta
Torres Strait Islanders
Torres Strait Islanders are the descendants of the first people who arrived in the Torres Strait Islands, located between Australia and Papua New Guinea. They have lived in the Torres Strait Islands continuously for more than 10,000 years, and developed distinctive cultures and traditions. Torres Strait Islanders are often referred to by their island group or language. Some of the major Torres Strait Islander groups include:
* Badu
* Erub
* Mer
* Moa
* Saibai
* Torres
Shared Heritage
Despite their different cultures and languages, Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders share a common heritage that is rooted in their connection to the land and their rich traditions. They are both recognized as the traditional owners of their respective territories, and their rights and interests are protected by the Australian government.