Presents information on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians based largely on information from the 1996 and earlier censuses. Throughout the publication comparisons are made between indigenous and non-indigenous or total Australian populations as well as comparison between the States and Territories. Topics covered include: demographic and geographic distribution of the population, and its growth in recent years; information on the composition of families and households, including the construction characteristics of indigenous and non-indigenous households and information on levels of rent and house ownership; a detailed assessment of the educational status of indigenous Australians compared with non-indigenous Australians, including comparisons with previous censuses, as well as information regarding indigenous Australians' English language proficiency. Labour force statistics are also analysed, including employment status, industry and occupation. Where possible an assessment of the Community Development Employment Projects scheme is provided.