Neoliberalism, Mineral Development and Indigenous People: A Framework for Analysis of Convergences and Divergences in Canada and Australia

Abstract

There have been suggestions in recent Canadian literature that neoliberalism and globalisation present positive opportunities for Indigenous communities engaging in resource development projects on their traditional lands. This literature emphasises the need for the state to provide unimpeded access to resources in a globalised world, and how this dynamic has facilitated rapid change in the relationship between Indigenous communities and the state. This paper will present evidence from emerging research on the changing role of the state in such an Indigenous community in Northern Australia – Weipa Nth Queensland. Initial findings indicate that the state's role has indeed diminished in this community in relation to Indigenous development and service provision, yet it appears to have devolved these responsibilities to the mining company. Thus state responsibility to Indigenous people has been given to the private sector. This paper examines the implications of this voluntary devolution of responsibility for Indigenous development and questions whether this represents a positive opportunity for Indigenous people in the region.