First Australians

The 1788 arrival of the First Fleet in Sydney results in cautious friendships being formed between the First Australians and the British Empire. Yet within three years, relations sour as settlers spread out across the land.

The land grab moves south to Tasmania. In an effort to protect real estate prices, Tasmanian Aboriginal people are removed from the island. The government enlists an Englishman for the job, who is helped by young Aboriginal woman Truganini.

Aboriginal reserves are created but not welcomed; the threat of extinction hovers over the First Australians of Victoria; Wurundjeri clan leader Simon Wonga claims land on the banks of the Yarra River to farm.

White settlement significantly affects First Australians. Homicidal Constable Willshire brings mayhem to the Arrernte nation in Central Australia, and must be stopped by telegraph operator Frank Gillen when the authorities turn a blind eye.

European settlement spreads to Western Australia and is met with much conflict. More than 50,000 half-caste children are taken from their homes and placed in missions.

Yorta Yorta man William Cooper forms the Australian Aborigines League in 1933 to campaign for equality. Successive campaigns help win constitutional rights in 1967.