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AIATSIS Thesauri

Since the first publication of the AIATSIS thesauri in 1997, there has been significant changes in language terminology as well as changes to technology which alters how we present and share our descriptive datasets.

Developing an English-language thesaurus to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies raises many issues. Some of the central issues are:

  • Representing a diversity of views and lifestyles within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
  • Using English to represent other ways of classifying the world
  • Understanding that many terms are on politically and ideologically contested ground
  • Freezing an ever-changing language at the time of compilation

AIATSIS is committed to improving our topical vocabularies and welcome all feedback and suggestions from community and practitioners.

If you would like to comment on any element of this content please email metadata@aiatsis.gov.au.