This paper seeks the views of local communities and others interested in the international repatriation of Indigenous remains. 

For more than 150 years Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander remains were unlawfully removed from burials grounds, hospitals and morgues to be sent to museums, universities and private collections in Australia and overseas. There is also documented evidence that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were targeted and subsequently murdered for their remains.

The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs’ International Repatriation program aims to return the human remains of Australia's Indigenous peoples held in overseas countries. This paper will help inform the Australian Governments future policy on the return of Indigenous remains.