Our department acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and Elders of Country throughout Australia, and their connection to land, sea and community.
We specifically acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our offices reside.
We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.
We recognise the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Reconciliation
We are committed to supporting reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities around Australia.
Our vision is to:
- understand, value and engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ innovations, knowledge and culture
- strengthen our organisation’s cultural capabilities
- support a workforce with opportunities and career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples where they feel empowered
- improve economic and social opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Read about our actions to support reconciliation.
Protocols of respect
Our department encourages staff to show awareness and respect for the traditional owners of the land through a ‘Welcome to Country’ or an ‘Acknowledgement of Country’.
A Welcome to Country is a traditional protocol which should be presented to welcome people onto Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lands. It can only be performed by a Traditional Owner of the lands on which you are meeting.
An Acknowledgement of Country can be informal or formal. It should be tailored for purpose. The type of acknowledgement undertaken should be appropriate to the nature and size of the event or material. An Acknowledgement of Country can be conducted by any person and is done as a mark of respect.