Reflecting on the transformative impact of Indigenous engagement in Northern Territory archaeology

On the 50th anniversary of Australian Archaeology, it is important to reflect on the significant role that the Traditional Owners of the Northern Territory (NT) have played in shaping the broader narrative of Australian archaeology. The NT boasts a long Indigenous history that is both rich and intricate, marked by profound discoveries and contentious debates. There have been pivotal shifts in this narrative through the evolution of Indigenous engagement in archaeology and cultural heritage management. One of the foremost dimensions of Australian archaeology is the enduring relationship it maintains with Indigenous peoples. A crucial contributing factor has been the ongoing occupation of Country by Indigenous peoples where they skilfully managed (and continue to manage) the landscape through traditional ecological and cultural knowledge. During the twentieth century, Traditional Owners have increasingly asserted control over management of Country through land rights, native title, and sacred sites legislation. Their rights on Country have been furthered through initiatives such as the implementation of Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 and the establishment of Indigenous Ranger programs. To gain a comprehensive understanding, it is vital to explore the historical context of archaeological research in the NT, the emergence of land rights, IPAs and Indigenous Ranger programs, and the potential transformative influence they will wield on the very nature of archaeological practice in the future.