PC BUREAUCRACY GONE MAD

Get this from an Australian State government Department:

Communicating positively - A guide to appropriate Aboriginal terminology

Summary

The purpose of this guide is to provide NSW Health staff with background information and guidance on appropriate word usage when working with Aboriginal people and communities, and when developing policy and programs to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people. The use of accurate and non-offensive language is an essential component of aboriginal cultural respect and communication training. In developing this guide, the Aboriginal Health Branch (AHB) has worked closely with Aboriginal staff within the NSW Department of Health and Area Managers of Aboriginal Health (AMAHs) within Area Health Services (AHSs), as well as the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW (AH&MRC), the peak body representing Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) in NSW.

And you then get a link to download the whole guide -- a huge PDF of 36 pages! I have been talking to Australian blacks all my life without the aid of such a guide and got on well enough with them.