First Nations’ sovereignties and the Australian common law: Unfinished business for the High Court

In this article, I propose a return to the High Court in the wake of the failure of the Voice referendum. This would enable a critical review of the common law’s treatment of First Nations’ sovereignties. I argue that, as with Mabo in 1992 regarding native title, recognition of prior First Nations’ sovereignties is available within existing common law. While case law appears unpromising, I critique judicial reasoning, identify crevices in judgments and mount an argument for pleading a justiciable case before the High Court. This proposal provides for a potential improvement in justice for First Nations Australians by recognising their sovereignties.