Historical overview of Nyoongah society, culture and political organization; examines Aboriginal and white political norms in relation to Aboriginal post-contact political behaviour and the development and nature of inter-ethnic politics; studies Aboriginal voluntary associations and the role of whites and Aborigines as patrons, brokers and leaders; careers of several politically prominent Aborigines analyzed; discussion with the NACC with particular focus on the 1973 NACC election; review of recent events in Aboriginal politics.