There is a subtle but important part of the National Apology- the apology is specifically, and rightfully, from the government on behalf of the past institutionalised racism against the Indigenous peoples of Australia. The apology is not an individual one on behalf of the people of Australia.

You may want to read this in the FAQ for further verification.

This is a very important distinction, because there should be no guilt by association. Simply because we are Australians, the crime against the Indigenous peoples was not perpetrated by us, but by past Governments. The Federal government is rightfully apologising on behalf of the previous governments who perpetrated the crime. No single Australian is being asked or burdened by the disgraceful actions of the past Australian Governments.

This principle, of No Guilt by Association, is a very Islamic Principle, initiated by the Prophetic Tradition of Muhammad, upon whom be peace and blessings of God Almighty. In including this very important distinction, the Federal Government has indeed worked hard to maintain high standards of justice in the Apology.