Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC)

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) was a government organization in Australia established in 1990 to represent Indigenous Australians—both Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders. Its role was to give Indigenous communities a voice in making decisions about their wellbeing, land rights, and services. ATSIC coordinated efforts between Indigenous communities and the government, promoting self-determination and development. It was actively involved in policy advice, funding distribution, and advocating for Indigenous issues until it was disbanded in 2005 amid debates over its effectiveness and governance.