Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Appreciation

This course is from Interaction's ready2work range and is developed and maintained in collaboration with the First Nations team at Krueger Consultancy Services. You can click here for an overview of the course navigation options or scroll down if you are ready to get started.

Respect

Interaction recognises and respects Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Nations people in Australia. ‘First Nations peoples’ is used to reference the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia. We will no longer use the word ‘Indigenous’ in relation to the First Nations peoples, communities, and businesses of Australia.

First Nations people should know that this course contains images, voices and names of deceased persons. In some communities, hearing recordings, seeing images, or the names of deceased persons may cause sadness or distress.

Acknowledgement

We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work.

We would also like to pay respect to the Traditional Owners of this land, acknowledge Elders both past and present, and extend that respect to the other First Nations peoples who may be participating in this course.

Aboriginal Peoples

Aboriginal peoples are the original inhabitants of the Australian continent, and their descendants share biological ancestry back to the original occupants of mainland Australia. This includes Tasmania, K’gari, Palm Island, Mornington Island, Groote Eylandt, Bathurst, and Melville Islands.

It is estimated that 300,000 to 950,000 First Nations people lived in semi-nomadic family groups that followed seasonal changes within a defined area. Each family group belonged to certain territories and had spiritual connections and obligations to that country.

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Torres Strait Islander Peoples

There are approximately 270 islands in the Torres Strait Island region, remnants of the Sahul Shelf. This now-submerged land bridge linked the Australian mainland and Papua New Guinea.

Torres Strait Islanders live permanently in 20 communities on 17 of the Islands and in locations in every Australian state. Two communities, Seisia and Bamaga, sit on the Queensland coast as part of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA).

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Respecting Identity

Many Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people find the term Indigenous to be overly generic and disrespectful. Other terms and acronyms that should not be used to describe First Nations Peoples include ATSI, Natives, and Coloured. Preferred terms that are both generic and acknowledge the diversity of Australia’s First Peoples include:

  • First Nations Australians
  • First Nations peoples
  • and Sovereign peoples.
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Population

The Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 Census recorded these key statistics:

  • 984,000 First Nations people living in Australia, representing 3.8% of the total Australian population.
  • This was an increase of 185,600 people (23.2%) since 30 June 2016
  • One-third (33.1%) of the First Nations population was under 15 years of age

The Census found that First Nations population had a younger age structure than the rest of the Australian population. Larger proportions of young people and smaller proportions of older people reflect higher birth rates and lower life expectancy in First Nations peoples.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Prelude waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Culture waterhole.

Culture Waterhole Introduction

Culture is the shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices characterising an institution, organisation, or group.

Identity

Despite the similarities in culture and history, there are many different First Nations groups in Australia. First Nations peoples identify themselves with names from the specific region in Australia they have inhabited.

  • Click here to display an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Language Map, then locate the suburb you live in on the map and find the name of the language group you are in today.

Aboriginality is Defined by Relationships - Not Skin Colour

First Nations refer to their nation when identifying themselves: 'I am a Dharawal man' or 'I'm an Eora woman'.

Today, a First Nations person is defined as a person who:

  • is of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
  • identifies as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
  • is accepted as such by the community in which he (she) lives

Professor Larissa Behrendt.

'I am often asked:

"How often do you visit Aboriginal communities?"

and I reply...

"Every day, when I go home."

Galarrwuy Yunupingu

'You can only be a proud Aboriginal person if you carry your own learning and cultural lifestyle with you.'


Urbanisation

First Nations people, like all cultures, are evolving contemporary cultural forms and practices. 75 per cent of First Nations people now live in urban and regional environments, which does not mean they are removed from their culture. The people maintain strong links to 'traditional' culture, including ongoing contact with country (traditional land), family and communities.

First Nations Music

Music is a powerful element of First Nations culture and is part of everyday life as well as a vital part of sacred ceremonies. Traditional music is still performed widely and there is also a very strong and lively contemporary music scene.

Music plays a major role in traditional Aboriginal societies and is intimately linked with a person's ancestry and country (the animals, plants and physical features of the landscape). It is traditionally connected with important events such as the bringing of rain, healing, wounding enemies, and winning battles.

Contemporary First Nations music continues to merge earlier traditional sounds with contemporary mainstream music styles.

Promoting First Nations achievement as a marketable and growing force within wider Australia, NIMA provides a wonderful forum for the wider community to learn about First Nations music.

PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING PAGES INCLUDE IMAGES OF DECEASED PERSONS

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The Dreaming

The Dreaming refers to an infinite, all-at-once time in which the past, present, and future coexist simultaneously. It is the natural world, especially the land or the country to which a person belongs, which provides the link between the people and The Dreaming.

Dreaming stories carry the truth from the past, together with the code for the lore, which operates in the present. Each story belongs to a long, complex story that establishes the structures of society, rules for social behaviour and the ceremonies performed to ensure the continuity of life and land. Some Dreaming stories discuss consequences and our future.

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Tom Lewis, Actor, Musician, Consultant.

'Dust Echoes is one way that we are bringing everyone back to the same campfire - black and white. We are telling our stories to you in a way you can understand, to help you see, hear and know. And we are telling these stories to ourselves, so that we will always remember, with pride, who we are.'

Spirituality of Land and Sea

Land and the sea are fundamental to the wellbeing of First Nations people. The land is the core of all spirituality. This relationship and the spirit of 'country' are central to the issues that are important to First Nations people today. First Nations people take responsibility and care of the land:

  • Land is 'home' 
  • Land is mother
  • Land is steeped in culture

'The Land Owns Us'

According to Bob Randall, a Yankunytjatjara elder and Traditional Owner of Uluru, the concept of "The land owns us" centres on the profound interconnectedness between all living beings. This ancient way of living acknowledges that every living thing is part of a vast family, where humans, animals, plants, and the land are deeply intertwined. This sacred relationship impels us to take on the responsibility of caring for this family with unwavering love and a sense of duty. It calls upon us to cherish and protect the land with unconditional care, recognising that our well-being is inseparable from the well-being of the entire natural world. This traditional wisdom encourages us to live in harmony with nature, fostering a profound respect for the earth and all its inhabitants.

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Island Custom

For the Torres Strait Islander people, the bond between the land, sea, and Island Custom is not only profound but also integral to their way of life. This ancient connection forms the very foundation of their culture, traditions, and identity in the Torres Strait region. Throughout history, Island Custom has played a pivotal role in shaping the social, political, and economic structures within individual communities.

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'The Coming of the Light'

The Coming of the Light festival marks the day the London Missionary Society first arrived in Torres Strait. The missionaries landed at Erub Island on 1 July 1871, introducing Christianity to the region. There were many disadvantages of missionary influences, such as the destruction of traditional cultural religious practices. But there were also positive consequences. Christianity provided a shared identity with the focus on unity that was reinforced through inter-island church meetings, festivals and church openings.

Today, for many Torres Strait Islanders, 'The Coming of the Light' is commemorated on the first of July each year and is regarded as National Torres Strait Islander Day.

The Importance of Elders

Elders play an indispensable and revered role within First Nations communities, occupying a position of deep admiration and respect as the keepers and enforcers of rich lore, sacred stories, and cherished cultural traditions. Their profound wisdom, cultural knowledge, and unyielding strength have guided communities throughout generations, ensuring the continuity of their vibrant heritage.
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Culture Exercises

This short quiz reinforces what has been covered so far. For each question, please select the most appropriate definition from the options provided (you can try again if you make an incorrect selection).

Click the Start button when you are ready to load the first question.

Kinship

It is important to understand the concepts of 'family' and 'kinship' for First Nation peoples. The traditional First Nations family structure is significantly different to the Western view of a family unit. Whereas many people live within a nuclear family unit, First Nations people value an extended family system, which often includes distant relatives.

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Sorry Business Scenario:

Betty is the Manager of a busy team in the State office.

John, a work colleague, asks Betty for a week's leave to attend to 'sorry business'. John explains that his Mother's Uncle has passed away and that he needs to return to his land to attend the funeral.

Sorry business can take some time and supervisors should be sensitive and consider the request for leave for bereavement purposes favourably. Sometimes, this may require flexible working conditions or leave without pay options.

First Nations Languages

How many First Nations languages are spoken today?

In 1788, there were about 250 languages spoken in Australia, plus dialects. Today, only two-thirds of these languages survive and only 20 of them (eight per cent of the original 250) are still strong enough to have a chance of surviving well into the next century.

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The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags

Most Australians can identify the flags of the Aboriginal and Torres Strat Islanders. Click on each of the flags now, to learn a little more about their history.

The Aboriginal flag was designed by a central Australian Luritja man, Harold Thomas, to signify the unity of the Aboriginal people during the land rights movement in the 1970s. Divided into two halves, the red base of the flag represents the earth, ochre and the spiritual relationship to the land, while the black panel symbolises the Aboriginal people. The two halves of the flag are connected by a central yellow circle, representing the sun - the constant giver of life.

First flown at Victoria Square in Adelaide on National Aborigines day, July 12, 1971, the flag was proclaimed the official 'Aboriginal flag of Australia' in 1975. In 1995, it was legally recognised by the Australian government as a 'Flag of Australia' under section 5 of the Flags Act 1953.

The Aboriginal Flag

The Torres Strait Islander flag consists of a blue horizontal mid panel, flanked by two green panels. These are separated by thin black lines representing the people. A 5-pointed white star, symbolic of peace and the Aboriginal islander groupings, sits central to the flag. This is surrounded by a 'deri'/'dharri' headdress, symbolic of the Torres Strait Islander people.

The Torres Strait Islander flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok of Thursday Island in 1992. The Torres Strait Islander flag was officially recognised by the Australian Government as an Australian flag in 1995.

The Torres Strait Islander Flag

Welcome to Country

Welcome to Country ceremonies acknowledge the traditional custodians of a particular area or region, demonstrating respect for the First Nations people, culture, and heritage.

Delivered by a Traditional Owner of the land, Welcome to Country symbolises the consent of the traditional landowners for the event to take place on their land by welcoming the event and people in attendance to their country and giving safe passage.

You will have noticed that a Welcome to Country is now typically performed in many varied situations including major sporting events, business gatherings, expos, concerts, etc.

Acknowledgement of Country

You have been asked to perform an Acknowledgement of Country at your next team meeting. Don’t Panic!!!

An Acknowledgement of Country demonstrates respect for the First Nations culture and the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges their continuing relationship and connection with the land and water.

Generally, Acknowledgement of Country takes place at the beginning of a meeting and is undertaken by the chair or speaker. To view guidelines for conducting a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgment of Country, click here.

Scenario

Alan is a Koori man who is always happy to talk about his culture and family with the other team members. He has often mentioned upcoming events such as National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week during team meetings and has requested that we start all formal team meetings with an Acknowledgement of Country.

As the manager, you agree to Alan's request but then, after the team meeting, another team member approaches you to express that she feels it is inappropriate for Alan to “force” cultural matters on everyone and requests that the Acknowledgment of Country not be conducted.

Click the Start button when you are ready to load the first question.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Culture waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Communication waterhole.

Communication Cues Waterhole

In this waterhole, we will investigate specific cues and considerations when communicating with First Nations people. 

How Might you React to First Nations People Who:

It's essential to remember that each culture has its unique set of nonverbal communication norms, and what may seem harmless or common in one culture might carry different meanings and implications in another. How might you react to First Nations people who, for example:

  • don't look you in the eye when you are speaking to them?
  • are not answering your questions?

Click on the panels below to overview some key communication cues.

In many First Nations communities, reproduction of the names and photographs of deceased people is restricted during a period of mourning. If there is a need to refer to the deceased person, it is possible to modify their name or use an indirect reference, for example, 'The old man that painted'.

Name Avoidance

In various cultures, direct eye contact may be perceived as impolite or disrespectful. If a First Nations person avoids eye contact, it does not necessarily indicate rudeness. Understanding and respecting diverse cultural norms around eye contact is essential to foster positive communication and cross-cultural understanding.

Eye Contact

Long periods of silence and thought are common. While extended periods of silence might be seen as awkward in some cultures, they are considered natural and reflective to First Nations people. First Nations people listen to others before expressing their views. They may not immediately express their opinion, even if they hold one, demonstrating patience, consideration, and respect for the other person's words. Given time and trust, they will offer their opinions.

Being comfortable in these situations fosters a positive environment for everyone involved.

Silence and Pauses

For First Nations people and many other cultural groups, pointing at someone can be perceived as invasive, disrespectful, and violating personal boundaries. Instead of pointing directly at individuals, consider using open hand gestures or gestures that include the entire group or surroundings. For instance, using an open palm to indicate a general direction or object can be more respectful and inclusive. To avoid misunderstandings, it's best to use more universally understood hand gestures or simply be cautious with gestures that might have diverse interpretations.

Pointing

While there is no single approach that applies to all First Nations people, many individuals may have personal space boundaries. Be observant and sensitive to the cues given by the person you are interacting with. Pay attention to their body language and any signals indicating their preference. If unsure, it's best to err on respecting personal boundaries and allowing for a comfortable distance during the conversation. The key is to treat each person as a unique individual rather than making assumptions based on their cultural background. Respecting personal space demonstrates consideration and cultural sensitivity, fostering positive and meaningful interactions with First Nations people and others from diverse backgrounds.

Personal Space

In some cultures, maintaining a calm and soft-spoken demeanour is valued as a sign of respect and consideration. A gentle tone may also be more appropriate in certain settings, especially when discussing sensitive topics or engaging in meaningful conversations. On the other hand, some First Nations communities may have a more expressive and animated communication style, where vocal inflections and emotional emphasis are common. Such expressive tones may indicate engagement, passion, or warmth in the conversation.

Be prepared to adjust your tone to match the tone of First Nations people you communicate with and be mindful of cultural nuances.

Tone of Voice

Asking Indirect Questions

In First Nations cultures, the art of gathering information relies on a nuanced approach to asking questions. Instead of employing direct and straightforward questions that may be seen as abrupt or intrusive, indirect questioning offers a way of seeking information respectfully while nurturing open communication.

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Indirect questions foster a collaborative and open atmosphere where individuals feel comfortable expressing their opinions.

Select the preferred approach for seeking input from your colleagues in a workplace situation:

Scenario:

At the weekly team meeting, Judy notices that Peter, a new member of her team who is First Nations, isn't contributing to the group discussion. She wants to find ways to involve Peter in the discussion and help him to feel comfortable participating. What could Judy do?

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Feedback

Demonstrating genuine interest in Peter's perspective and needs will foster a supportive environment for him to voice his thoughts.

Judy should set up a private conversation with Peter to discuss anything that she or the team can do to make him feel more comfortable participating in team meetings. Judy should also consider diversity initiatives to help the team gain a better understanding of the various cultures, communication styles, and unique perspectives of the people in the team. By promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity, Judy can ensure that her team creates a more inclusive and respectful workspace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their ideas.

Click here to access a range of ideas to support Judy in such a situation.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Communications waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Government Policies waterhole.

Government Policies Waterhole

This waterhole explores the historical and contemporary Government policies relating to First Nations people, a collective past and present that binds all Australians.

History Explains The Current Situation of First Nations Peoples.

This historical overview provides a glimpse into the complex history that shapes the present situation of First Nations peoples in Australia. Understanding this history is crucial to fostering awareness, empathy, and meaningful reconciliation efforts.

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The Stolen Generations

The historical overview sets the stage for understanding the deeply impactful and troubling chapter in Australian history known as the Stolen Generations. The policies and attitudes that evolved during British colonisation, including the perception of First Nations people as "uncivilised and inferior," led to discriminatory practices and forced removals of children from their families and communities.

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I've asked my granny if she thought she was rescued. She replied:

"I didn't need rescuing from my mother's love."

Che Cockatoo-Collins (Footballer)

'I grew up feeling alone, a black girl in a white world and I resented them for trying to make me white but they couldn't wash away thousands of years of dreaming.'

Aunty Rhonda Collard, member of the Stolen Generation

Timeline of Significant Events

Click each of the Year tabs on this dialogue box to overview some of the significant events relating to reconciliation.

1962

The Commonwealth Electoral Act is amended to give the vote to all Aboriginal people.

1967

The Commonwealth Referendum passes. This ends constitutional discrimination, and all Aboriginal people are now counted in the national census.

1971

The first census to include First Nations people.

1972

The Whitlam Government introduces a policy of self-determination. The Department of Aboriginal Affairs was established. The “Aboriginal Embassy' is pitched outside Parliament House in Canberra. The Whitlam Government freezes all applications for mining and exploration on Commonwealth Aboriginal Reserves.

1976

Federal Parliament passes the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act.

1987

A Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody begins.

1991

The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation Act passes through Federal Parliament. The Council is formed. The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody presents its Report and Recommendations to the Federal Parliament.

1992

The High Court of Australia rules in the Mabo case that native title exists over particular kinds of land and that Australia never was terra nullius or 'empty land'.

1993

The Federal Government establishes the Office of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner in response to issues of discrimination and disadvantage highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission's National Inquiry into Racist Violence.

1995

The National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their Families is established in response to efforts made by key agencies and communities.

1996

The Wik Decision. The High Court found that pastoral leases did not necessarily extinguish native title (as earlier ruled) and that both could co-exist but where there was conflict, native title rights were subordinate to the rights of the pastoral leaseholder.

1997

The 700-page report of the 'Stolen Children' Nation Inquiry 'Bringing Them Home' was tabled in Federal Parliament.

2000

National Recognition Week and People's Walk for Reconciliation.

2004

Abolition of ATSIC.

Formation of National Indigenous Council.

2008

The apology in the Australian Federal Parliament on 13 February 2008 to the Stolen Generations of Australia became a defining moment in the nation's history.

2017

On the 26 May 2017 during the National Constitutional Convention, 250 First Nations Delegates’ from across Australia came together to agree that in Australia sovereignty has never been ceded or extinguished. From this agreement, “the Uluru Statement from the Heart” was formed.

2022

In May 2022, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made a commitment to establish a Voice to Parliament - a permanent body representing First Nations people that would advise government on policies and laws which impact their lives.

2023

In late 2023, the Australian Government agreed to have a referendum to let Australians decide whether to establish the Voice in the Constitution.

Australians went to the polls 14th October 2023 in a historic referendum - that determined if First Nations people should be recognised in the country’s constitution through a voice to parliament. The question that was put to voters is whether to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

Waterhole - Uluru Statement from the Heart

Put simply, the Uluru Statement from the Heart is an invitation from First Nations Peoples to consider legal and structural reforms to redesign the relationship between First Nations Peoples and the Australian population. The Statement calls for two changes:

  1. Voice to Parliament, which needs to be enshrined in the Constitution of Australia to ensure it remains a permanent part of our democracy.
  2. Makarrata Commission to supervise agreement-making between governments and First Nations and truth-telling about our history.

Why do we need to change the Constitution?

The vote was the most significant step in a decades-long push for constitutional recognition of Australia’s Indigenous people. It was the culmination of a six-year-long process since the ULURU Statement from the Heart and was delivered to the Australian people, calling for a constitutionally enshrined Voice, a committee of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to give advice on policies affecting First Nations Australians.

Constitutional enshrinement can only be achieved through a referendum.

This means the constitution cannot be altered without 'the approval of the people'.

All Australians of voting age had the opportunity to vote to enshrine a First Nations Voice into the Australian Constitution.

How would a Voice to Parliament have helped First Nations people?

Many of the concerns First Nations people face are varied and complex. The issues are bound to factors such as cultural differences, remote locations, poverty, English as a second or third language, and failed and racist past government policies.

A Voice would have meant the Government of the day would have better quality information about First Nations issues - from First Nations people. First Nations people understand the issues affecting their communities and are best placed to contribute to the solutions.

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Let’s take a moment to reinforce some key points.

Click the Next button when you are ready to load the first question in our knowledge check.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Government Policies waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Living Standards waterhole.

Living Standards Waterhole

This Waterhole explores the disparities in health, education, employment, housing, and access to basic services that impact the well-being and quality of life for First Nations Peoples.

'It is not credible to suggest that one of the wealthiest nations in the world cannot solve a health crisis affecting less than three per cent of its citizens.'

Tom Calma, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice

What is the Cause of the First Nations Health Equality Gap?

The First Nations health equality gap stems from a complex array of factors. Historical factors, including colonisation, dispossession, and discrimination, have led to intergenerational impacts on health and well-being. Socioeconomic determinants such as lower education levels, higher unemployment rates, inadequate housing, and limited access to resources contribute to disparities. Cultural factors like language barriers, cultural differences in healthcare practices, and a lack of culturally appropriate services also play a role. Furthermore, systemic issues within the healthcare system, including a lack of accessibility, cultural safety, and appropriate funding, contribute to the gap.

Addressing these multifaceted factors is crucial for achieving health equity and closing the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Overcrowded, poor-quality housing in many communities, limited access to healthy food, and the absence of access to Primary Health Care are major contributors to illnesses that should be preventable and that tend to become chronic problems.

Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions, kidney disease, and eye and ear problems are massive challenges for First Nations people.

For First Nations people, good health is more than the absence of disease or illness; it is a holistic concept that includes physical, social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual wellbeing, for both the individual and the community.

Closing the Gap

The objective of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap (the National Agreement) is to enable First Nations people and governments to work together to overcome the inequality experienced by First Nations people and achieve life outcomes equal to all Australians.

Key targets of the Closing the Gap Agreement are Listed Below:

  1. Everyone enjoys long and healthy lives
  2. Children are born healthy and strong
  3. Children are engaged in high-quality, culturally appropriate early childhood education in their early years
  4. Children thrive in their early years
  5. Students achieve their full potential
  6. Students reach their full potential through further education pathways
  7. Youth are engaged in employment or education
  8. Strong economic participation and development of people and their communities
  9. People can secure appropriate, affordable housing that is aligned with their priorities and need
  10. Adults are not overrepresented in the criminal justice system
  11. Young people are not overrepresented in the criminal justice system
  12. Children are not overrepresented in the child protection system
  13. Families and households are safe
  14. People enjoy high levels of social and emotional wellbeing
  15. People maintain a distinctive cultural, spiritual, physical, and economic relationship with their land and waters
  16. Cultures and languages are strong, supported, and flourishing
  17. People have access to information and services enabling participation in informed decision-making regarding their own lives.

Click here for further information

First Nations People Experience Much Higher Levels of Unemployment.

There is a clear link between unemployment and other aspects of disadvantage. Unemployment is linked to:

  • poor health
  • poor living standards
  • low self-esteem
  • imprisonment and substance misuse
Causes of high unemployment amongst First Nations people include a lack of jobs in areas where First Nations people live, a decline in rural industries, and a general lack of awareness of First Nations culture in our society. Through increased awareness of First Nations culture and greater avenues of employment opportunities, there can be an increase in the employment of First Nations people.
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Factors that can make it difficult for First Nations people to obtain work include:

  • lack of relevant training
  • lack of exposure to the mainstream workforce
  • the culture of work organisations and the expectations of organisations
  • the challenges involved in balancing family and community obligations with the demands of full-time work
  • poor health

Barriers often stem from cultural differences and a lack of knowledge of recruitment processes by First Nations job seekers. These can result in under-prepared work resumes, inappropriately addressing key selection criteria or a lower level of interest from candidates if there are no other First Nations people working in the organisation. Many of the barriers faced by First Nations people can be understood and overcome through useful strategies for recruiting and retaining employees.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Living Standards waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Celebrating First Nations Culture waterhole.

Celebrating First Nations Culture Waterhole

There have been many successful and influential First Nations people involved in various fields such as sport, arts, politics, media and lore. David Unaipon (1872 - 1967) was a Ngarrindjeri man, inventor and writer. He based his helicopter design on the principal of a boomerang. David Unaipon's portrait is depicted on the Australian $50 note, along with drawings from one of his inventions and an extract from his original manuscript, Legendary Tales of Australian Aborigines.

Prominent First Nations People

We would now like to introduce you to the many First Nations people who have been awarded Australian of the Year or Young Australian of the Year. First Nations people should know that this will contain images, voices, and names of deceased persons.

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Cultural Events

On 13 February 2008 then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd offered an apology to the Stolen Generation. The apology was a crucial step in our reconciliation journey and was a formal acknowledgement of the experiences of the 'Stolen Generations' and the profound sorrow caused by past government practices.

Australia hosts several significant annual cultural events that play a crucial role in supporting and celebrating First Nations people and their rich heritage...

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Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture

NAIDOC stands for the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee. Its origins can be traced to the emergence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups in the 1920s, which sought to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements across all fields, including music, art, culture, education, sport, employment and politics of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

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Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Celebrating First Nations Culture waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Reconciliation waterhole.

Reconciliation Waterhole

Reconciliation is about building better relationships between First Nations peoples and the wider Australian community for the benefit of all Australians.

Reconciliation allows us to work together to solve problems and generate success that is in everyone's best interests. It includes:

  • raising awareness and knowledge of First Nations history and culture
  • changing attitudes that are often based on myths and misunderstandings.
  • encouraging action where everyone plays their part in building a better relationship between us as fellow Australians.

Reconciliation Action Plan

A Reconciliation Action Plan specifies actions for encouraging a respectful work culture and building stronger relationships with First Nations peoples in your organisation and in the community. All Australians have a role to play in helping achieve objectives for reconciliation.

Reconciliation Action Plans (RAP) assist businesses to embed the principles and purpose of reconciliation. The RAP network is a diverse group of over 2,400 organisations that directly impact over 3 million Australians at work every day. There are four levels of a RAP; Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate.

Click here to access a sample vision statement.

Waterhole Complete

You have completed the Reconciliation waterhole. Click the Next arrow to progress to the Culture waterhole.

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Through Supply Nation, 4,300 (at last count!) verified First Nations businesses are connecting with more than 740 corporate, government, and not-for-profit contacts in every state and territory. 

Supply Nation brings together the biggest national database of First Nations businesses with the procurement teams of Australia’s leading organisations to help them engage, create relationships, and do more business.

You can get involved right here and now!

Credits

The content of this course was collaboratively developed by Interaction Training and the Australian National University, with the support and assistance of the Indigenous Employees Network (IEN) and Reconciliation Ambassador Network (RAN). We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Wade Krueger and our esteemed First Nations consultation team at KCS, whose invaluable input and ongoing collaboration continue to ensure the relevance of this essential content. Together, we strive to honour and acknowledge the importance of First Nations perspectives and contribute to building a more inclusive and culturally respectful community.

Click here to display image contribution credits.

Disclaimer

This is a generic course, so before we continue, we need you to confirm your understanding that if any policies specific to your workplace conflict with those presented in this course, then you must apply your local workplace policies and procedures rather than those presented here.

Well done

You have now visited and completed all the waterholes. To exit the course and save your work, please be sure to click on the Save and Exit button below.

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