Doctoral Thesis
Exploring The Experiences of Aboriginal Women Accessing Post-release Supports in Perth Metropolitan Area: The Unheard Voices on Country
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Murdoch University
2025
Abstract
Research on Indigenous peoples’ experiences with the criminal legal system has frequently overlooked the distinct perspectives of Aboriginal women, particularly in Western Australia (WA), where incarceration rates remain disproportionately high. This thesis adopts a multi-perspective, culturally grounded approach to explore the post-release experiences of Aboriginal women, drawing insights from 10 formerly incarcerated women, 10 of their family members, and 10 service providers (including two Aboriginal and eight non-Indigenous workers).
Data were collected through 20 semi-structured interviews and two yarning circles, capturing narratives about the transition from prison to community. The analysis revealed critical themes relating to access, specifically, ongoing barriers in housing, healthcare, employment, and Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) services. Experiences of systemic racism and discrimination were central to how Aboriginal women engaged with, or were excluded from, these services.
For families, additional themes emerged around cultural identity, the significance of kinship, and the urgency for culturally responsive reforms. Service providers, meanwhile, highlighted system-level constraints such as fragmented service delivery, housing shortages, racism, and limited funding tied to contractual obligations.
Despite some improvements, the study finds that existing systems fail to adequately meet the cultural and practical needs of Aboriginal women post-release. The thesis advances a series of culturally sensitive, strengths-based recommendations emphasising the need for coordinated, cross-sectoral collaboration with Aboriginal families and communities. Such collaboration is essential for creating systemic change that supports healing, reintegration, and long-term wellbeing for Aboriginal women and their families after incarceration.
Details
- Title
- Exploring The Experiences of Aboriginal Women Accessing Post-release Supports in Perth Metropolitan Area: The Unheard Voices on Country
- Authors/Creators
- Emma L Tufuga
- Contributors
- David Keatley (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, Centre for Biosecurity and One HealthJaimie Zander (Supervisor)Jocelyn Jones (Supervisor) - Curtin University
- Awarding Institution
- Murdoch University; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Identifiers
- 991005796271207891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Law and Criminology
- Resource Type
- Doctoral Thesis
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