English is the language of power in Australia and until Aboriginal people are literate and numerate in English they will be denied true acceptance and participation in the power structures of this country. One of the biggest barriers to improved educational outcomes is attitudinal. Aboriginal people do not see the relevance of a Western education and Western educators do not acknowledge the relevance and importance of Aboriginal educational and learning styles. It is essential that these two polarised views be brought together as a true partnership so that equal value is placed on traditional culture and values and Western educational objectives.

Education should not just be about literacy and numeracy, it should be education for life and for Aboriginal people this means education for their traditional roles as well as education for the broader Australian society. When the people feel that this gap has been successfully bridged, their confidence in dealing with others will improve and their ability to operate within a Western style of governance will be strengthened.

Both black and white Australians must walk this path together with neither side assuming positions of superiority or inferiority, there must be give and take and education that is appropriate to these needs is the essential ingredient.