The obsession with the issue of the recognition of customary law has focused on the content of rules and customs rather than on the process of governing social relations, and has often obscured the more fundamental concern of giving effect to the right to self determination. In a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Queensland, community justice groups are proving to be an effective means of addressing these concerns. Since 1996, the Local Justice Initiatives Program has overseen the growth of community justice groups across Queensland to more than 30. This article describes the composition and activities of the community justice groups, which may use a variety of methods to divert community members from contact with the police and courts, and may also become involved in the formal justice system, especially with regards to sentencing. The effectiveness of the groups is seen in reductions in the level of reported property crime and also in significant savings to the justice system. A critical issue surrounding the future direction of community justice groups is whether the groups should have a formal legislative basis and powers.