The map is an attempt to represent the language, tribal or nation groups of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. Aboriginal groups were included on the map based on the published resources available between 1988 and 1994 which determine the cultural, language and trade boundaries and relationships between groups.
The map was developed along with the Encyclopedia of Aboriginal Australia as part of a research project. The Encyclopedia of Aboriginal Australia is available in libraries and contains more detailed information about the groups represented on the map.
View a version of the map with a zoom-in feature.
View a list of alternate spellings for names on the AIATSIS map of Indigenous Australia (PDF 90KB).
Limitations of the AIATSIS map of Indigenous Australia
The map was produced for a general reading audience. The map is not definitive and is not the only information available which maps language and social groups. See also AUSTLANG.
The information on which the map is based is contested and may not be agreed to by some traditional custodians. The borders between groups are purposefully represented as slightly blurred. They do not claim to be exact.
The map was produced before native title legislation and is not suitable for use in native title or other land claims.
Purchase a copy
You can purchase a copy of the map directly from our online shop or order it from your local bookseller or map supplier.
Organisations may be entitled to a discount when purchasing bulk copies of the map for use in cultural-awareness training or other activities. For more information contact Aboriginal Studies Press.
Price and dimensions
The map is available in two sizes, either flat or folded.
A3 (Small) - RRP $9.95
Size: 297 x 420mm
Flat: ISBN 9781922059703
Folded: ISBN 9781922059697
A1 (Medium) - RRP $14.95
Size: 594 x 841mm
Flat: ISBN 9780855754969
Folded: ISBN 9780855754976
A0 (Large) - RRP $24.95
Size: 841 x 1189mm
Flat: ISBN 9780855754914
Folded: ISBN 9780855754921