The compilation of accurate life tables to derive life expectancy estimates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians presents particular challenges. The standard approach to compiling life tables requires complete and accurate data on deaths that occur in a period, and reliable estimates of the population (at the mid-point of the period) exposed to the risk of dying. In the case of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mortality estimation, the situation is less than perfect. Registration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population estimates have some methodological limitations compared to those for the entire population.