This collection of research papers provides a preliminary analysis of the current data base; presents guidelines for the prevention of Aboriginal deaths in custody; and includes reports on public drunkenness, drug testing in prison, the design of safe and humane police cells, and self-inflicted harm in custody. A preliminary analysis of the 108 cases of Aboriginal deaths in custody in Australia since January 1, 1980 shows that Western Australia and South Australia had the highest rates based on the size of the adult Aboriginal community in each jurisdiction. The Northern Territory had the lowest rate. The incidence of Aboriginal deaths in custody increased over the 1980 to 1987 period. More than half the 1987 cases were attributable to hanging. 96 figures and 317 tables