Integrating indigenous justice into alternative dispute resolution practices: A case study of the Aboriginal care circle pilot program in Nowra

The paper considers the Aboriginal Care Circle Pilot Program ('Care Circle pilot') in Nowra as an alternative, 'culturally appropriate' step within the court process for deciding Aboriginal child protection care matters, taken by the courts in the context of Aboriginal dispute resolution models. The Care Circle pilot has been established using the alternative dispute resolution ('ADR') provisions under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (NSW). The Care Circle pilot aims to empower Aboriginal families and communities and reduce barriers between Aboriginal people and the courts, through facilitating Aboriginal peoples' participation in child protection decision-making.