With specific reference to the Aboriginal situation in Australia, and in the context of the Australian federal government's current policy regarding Aboriginal self-management, this document addresses the need for alternatives to traditional Aboriginal training (education) programs and the implications of these alternative programs for the Aboriginal community. After establishing why alternative training programs are needed, and after drawing contrasts between traditional Aboriginal education and western schooling, problems associated with the change of federal government policy for Aborigines from assimilation to self-management are described. In conclusion, implications of the alternative training programs for Aboriginal self-help are listed. (Author/RH)