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  • Michaels, Eric. 'Hundreds Shot at Aboriginal Community: ABC Makes TV Documentary at Yuendumu.' Bad Aboriginal art: tradition, media and technological horizons. University of Minnesota Press, 1994, pp.63-80. 
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    Abstract: This article questions whether emerging federal policy on Aboriginal broadcasting has actually had a positive effect on the ability of remote Aborigines to utilize new media technologies and claim authority in the production process. Michaels argues that the conditions of indigenous people in places such as Yuendumu remain ‘essentially unassessed and unresolved’. He discusses problems that have emerged from the inability of then contemporary policy to take into account the complex uses of media by Indigenous communities, and the continued lack of sensitivity by western media organizations – in this instance, the ABC. Michaels argues that the ABC continues to make and air programs that are culturally insensitive: for instance, the broadcasting of specifically restricted ceremonies. It is recommended that further controls be legislated in order to police ABC projects and allow indigenous communities to gain greater influence over the content and its circulation. He also questions whether the attempt to redress the media ‘imbalance’ is relevant or even desired by all Indigenous communities. In the instances where it is, he notes that government promises have been unintelligible and often did not result in action. Policies produced in regards to remote communities have also been unable to take into account the development of local media and delivery systems: for instance, in terms of the widespread piracy and the use of unlicensed radio and TV stations.
    Langton, Marcia. 'Appendix: The Northern Land Council Protocol.' ’Well, I heard it on the radio and I saw it on the television’: An essay for the Australian Film Commission on the politics and aesthetics of filmmaking by and about Aboriginal people and things. Australian Film Commission, 1993, pp.91-92. 
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    Abstract: The areas considered by land council staff when assessing proposals vary depending on the nature of the project. The following issues are taken into account: Whose interest the film serves (financial and political interests) Editorial control throughout entire production (including scripting) Distribution Control (including publicity) Employment (whether contracts are fair and appropriate) Environment Issues (ensuring minimal impact, or compensation and rehabilitation provisions) Sacred Sites (protecting access to or activity on sites) Legal (contractual arrangements).
    Task Force on Aboriginal and Islander Broadcasting and Communications Australia, et al. Out of the Silent Land. 1984. 
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    Abstract: The Task Force on Aboriginal Broadcasting and Communications commissioned this report in 1984 for the purpose of considering the development of policies and strategies for Aboriginal broadcasting. Following research carried out in Canada and Australia, this report analyses the situations and conditions central to, and surrounding the area of, electronic communications, with specific reference to Aboriginal people in both countries. This report was driven by the perceived need to provide or extend basic telecommunications services ahead of further developments in broadcasting, thereby cushioning the impact of one-way broadcasting on indigenous communities. Eight pages of recommendations follow from this project (see pp vi-xiii). These flow from, and engage with the stated goals of this project (see p. i for a full list). These objectives widely include the: development of policies to enable broadcasting and related telecommunication services to be extended to all indigenous people who want them with particular focus on remote communities who currently do not have access encouragement of the development of indigenous public broadcasting discussion of the means for linking indigenous broadcasting with the ABC with respect to production, training, use of facilities, networks, and development of special programs. The recommendations acknowledge that Australia has a special responsibility to promote and protect Aboriginal cultural identity and this must be reflected in broadcasting and telecommunication policies. The Australian Government is called on to formulate policy which ensures that minimum telephonic services are made available to remote Australian communities, and that all Australian citizens should have equal rights of access to communications media. Emphasis is placed on ensuring appropriate representation within those committees which ensure this development and distribute funds (for instance, an Aboriginal Advisory group), as well as in the role of presenter (for instance) in programs consequently produced and televised. In terms of content and medium, emphasis on radio is recommended in the initial stages (due to its low cost and relative simplicity) and programming should consist of news, information, and current affairs. In particular it is noted that local programming should encourage the flow of information and comment relevant and useful to Aboriginal communities. The ABC in particular should ensure at least three hours of Indigenous content per week, and develop cooperative arrangements with emerging Aboriginal broadcasters. The Government – along with the ABC – should develop specific training programs for these broadcasters. Once trained, there should be career opportunities and continued Government funded initiatives. The report is broken down into the following central divisions: Aboriginal Australia; Aboriginal Broadcasting and Telecommunications – Current Position; Legislative Framework; Satellite Technology; Social Considerations; Resources for Aboriginal Broadcasting; The Canadian Experience; A Strategy for Aboriginal Broadcasting and Communications.
    Cantrill, Arthur, and Corinne Cantrill. 'The 1901 cinematography of Walter Baldwin Spencer.' Cantrill’s filmnotes, vol.37/38, 1982, pp.27-42. 
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    Abstract: This paper was given at the History and Film Conference, Canberra 1981. The authors turn to Baldwin Spencer’s work in order to research the early links between Aboriginal Australian and European Australia. The article is framed by the brief biographical outline of Spencer’s life with more detailed discussion of his journal entries and specific techniques used during the filming of the Tjitjingalla ceremony (1986). His political life is briefly discussed in terms of his role as Special Commissioner for Aborigines in Darwin, 1912.
    Australian Film Commission. Australian Independent Film. 1982. 
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    Abstract: This handbook contains a brief one page outline of ‘hundreds of low budget independent films’ produced in Australia in the decade preceding 1982. These outlines contain a short synopsis followed by information including: running time; Director; Producer; TV rights; and Distribution. The handbook overall is broken down into genre divisions: documentary; fiction; experimental and avant garde; and animation films. Also included is a comprehensive directory of distributors, film publications, Australian International film festivals, and a film index.