Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Annual Report 1996 - 1997

This landmark report by the Australian Human Rights Commission documents the stories and experiences of the Stolen Generations - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children forcibly removed from their families. It provides essential historical context for understanding intergenerational trauma and the importance of truth-telling in reconciliation. 

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Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia.

The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) offers this online gateway to explore the richness, diversity, and depth of First Nations cultures, languages, histories, and lived experiences. A trusted and culturally safe starting point for educators seeking to embed First Nations perspectives with respect and authenticity.

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Yarning About Yarning

This article explores yarning as an Indigenous research method - centred on relationality, deep listening, and cultural protocol. It positions yarning not just as a conversational tool, but as a legitimate and rigorous methodology grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing. 

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Dadirri: The Quiet Stillness Inside Us

Dadirri, a concept shared by Dr Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr, is a Ngan’gikurunggurr word that expresses the practice of deep inner listening, quiet still awareness, and respectful waiting. It invites us to be present, to truly listen - not just with our ears, but with our hearts. 

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Ways of knowing, being and doing: 

In this seminal paper, Dr Karen Martin presents a theoretical framework for Indigenous and Indigenist research based on relationality and respect. Drawing from her own Quandamooka worldview, Martin explores what it means to centre Aboriginal epistemologies, ontologies, and axiologies in research and teaching.

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Uluru Statement of the Heart

The Uluru Statement from the Heart is an invitation to all Australians to walk together toward a better future. It calls for Voice, Treaty, and Truth as the foundation for a more just and united nation. Grounded in thousands of years of continuous culture, this statement is a powerful expression of First Nations sovereignty, dignity, and hope.

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IndigenousX

IndigenousX is an independent Indigenous-owned and -operated media platform that amplifies diverse First Nations voices, stories, and perspectives. Founded by Luke Pearson, it offers articles, interviews, and commentary that challenge mainstream narratives and centre lived experience, truth-telling, and self-determination.

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UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Adopted by the UN in 2007, this declaration affirms the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples globally - including rights to culture, identity, language, education, and self-determination. It provides a vital human rights framework that underpins respectful and inclusive practice.

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Indigenous Governance Toolkit 

Developed by the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, this toolkit supports communities and organisations to strengthen their own models of governance grounded in culture, Country, and community. It offers practical tools, videos, and case studies that honour First Nations leadership and decision-making practices.

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Understand Indigenous governance

This section introduces the foundations of Indigenous governance - centred on relationships, cultural legitimacy, collective decision-making, and connection to Country. It challenges Western assumptions and highlights the strengths of First Nations systems of governance, both past and present.

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Governance lingo

This glossary breaks down commonly used terms in Indigenous governance, offering clear, culturally grounded definitions from a First Nations perspective. It’s a helpful tool for building shared understanding and respectful dialogue across communities, services, and leadership teams.

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Indigenous Australians: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

This page offers a foundational overview of the diverse nations, cultures, and histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It highlights the richness and complexity of First Nations identities, languages, and connections to Country.

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The importance of understanding cultural diversity among Indigenous Peoples

This video unpacks the vast cultural diversity that exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, highlighting the differences in language, Country, kinship systems, and cultural practices across over 250 First Nations.

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NITV

NITV is a dedicated media platform that celebrates and amplifies Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices through news, documentaries, storytelling, and cultural programming. It offers rich insights into contemporary and historical First Nations experiences, perspectives, and achievements.

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NIT - National Indigenous Times

NIT is an independent news platform providing in-depth coverage of issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. From politics and land rights to community achievements and cultural events, it centres First Nations voices and perspectives often overlooked in mainstream media.

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Koori Mail - The Voice of Indigenous Australia

100% Aboriginal-owned and proudly independent, Koori Mail is Australia’s national Indigenous newspaper. It shares stories by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, covering culture, achievements, community news, and current affairs.

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UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Adopted by the UN in 2007, this declaration affirms the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples globally - including rights to culture, identity, language, education, and self-determination. It provides a vital human rights framework that underpins respectful and inclusive practice.

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Human occupation of northern Australia by 65,000 years ago

This landmark archaeological study provides evidence that Aboriginal peoples have lived on the Australian continent for at least 65,000 years - making theirs the oldest continuous living culture on Earth. The research affirms deep-time connection to Country and challenges colonial narratives of history.

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Dark Emu: Aboriginal Australia and the Birth of Agriculture

This book challenges Eurocentric historical accounts by exploring the rich ecological knowledge held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples long before European settlement. Olsen and Russell highlight how early colonists relied on - and often appropriated - this Indigenous knowledge of land, animals, and seasonal change. 

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The ‘frontier wars’: Undoing the myth of the peaceful settlement of Australia

This article from Monash Lens explores Australia’s Frontier Wars, challenging the myth of peaceful colonisation. It highlights the widespread violence, resistance, and dispossession experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during and after invasion.

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The 1967 Referendum

This resource explores the significance of the 1967 Referendum, when over 90% of Australians voted to amend the Constitution to include Aboriginal people in the census and allow the federal government to make laws for them. It marked a key moment in the long struggle for rights, recognition, and representation.

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The Mabo Case

The 1992 Mabo decision by the High Court of Australia overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius and recognised Native Title for the first time. Led by Eddie Koiki Mabo and others, the case was a historic affirmation of the enduring connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their lands.

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Wave Hill Walk-Off

In 1966, Gurindji stockmen and families walked off Wave Hill Station in protest against unfair wages and land dispossession. This powerful act of resistance, led by Vincent Lingiari, became a defining moment in the Aboriginal land rights movement.

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Myall Creek massacre

In 1838, at least 28 unarmed Aboriginal people were brutally killed at Myall Creek in one of the few massacres where perpetrators were arrested, tried, and some convicted. This defining moment sheds light on the violence of colonisation and the resistance to justice for Aboriginal lives.

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National Apology

On 13 February 2008, then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd formally apologised to the Stolen Generations and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for the profound grief, loss, and injustice caused by past government policies. This moment marked a step toward national healing and truth-telling.

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A Look Inside the Heartbreaking Story of the 'Stolen Generation'

In this episode, direct descendants of the Stolen Generations share their family histories, lived experiences, and reflections on intergenerational trauma and resilience. Their voices offer a powerful and personal perspective on the enduring impacts of forced removal policies in Australia.

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Telling Our Stories - Our Stolen Generations (Aunty Julie Black)

In this deeply moving video, Barkindji Elder Aunty Julie Black shares her lived experience as a survivor of the Stolen Generations. Taken from her mother shortly after birth, Aunty Julie’s story is one of profound loss, resilience, and truth.

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Intergenerational Trauma as told by The Healing Foundation

This video from the Healing Foundation explains how trauma, when left unhealed, can be passed down through generations - impacting attachment, emotional development, and cultural connection. In Australia, this is especially relevant for the descendants of the Stolen Generations.

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Thirty years ago the Native Title Act was passed. But what is it, how does it work and is it enough?

This article reflects on the legacy of the Native Title Act, thirty years after its passage in response to the Mabo decision. It examines progress made, ongoing limitations, and the lived realities for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities still fighting for recognition and justice.

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Eddie Mabo remembered as the father of Native Title

This SBS News segment honours Eddie Koiki Mabo, whose tireless advocacy led to the 1992 High Court decision recognising Native Title and overturning terra nullius. A proud Torres Strait Islander, Mabo’s legacy continues to shape land justice and truth-telling in Australia.

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Dr Anita Heiss

In this compelling TEDx talk, Wiradjuri author and academic Dr Anita Heiss explores the limitations of seeing sameness as a path to unity. She challenges viewers to embrace cultural diversity, self-determination, and the richness of Aboriginal identity.

A powerful reflection on belonging, representation, and the need for genuine inclusion

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Defining Moments Timeline - National Museum of Australia

This interactive timeline highlights key events that have shaped Australia’s social, political, and cultural landscape - from colonisation and the Frontier Wars to the Uluru Statement and beyond. It includes milestones contributed by historians and the public, offering a broad and inclusive perspective on the nation's history.

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First Australians (SBS Documentary Series)

This acclaimed documentary series shares the history of Australia from the perspective of its First Peoples. Spanning over 50,000 years to the present, First Australians weaves together personal stories, archival footage, and expert insights to reveal the resilience, survival, and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across centuries of colonisation.

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Our Land is Our Life - Central Land Council Oral Histories

The Central Land Council shares the story of Aboriginal land rights advocacy in Central Australia, from the early grassroots movements through to landmark legal and political achievements. This page highlights the courage, leadership, and collective action of Aboriginal communities working to reclaim and care for Country.

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The Value of Deep Listening - The Aboriginal Gift to the Nation | Judy Atkinson

In this powerful TEDx talk, Emeritus Professor Judy Atkinson shares how deep listening - dadirri - is central to healing intergenerational trauma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. She invites us to listen to the stories behind the pain, and to honour the wisdom of quiet presence in relationships and recovery.

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The Healing Foundation

The Healing Foundation is a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that supports trauma-aware, culturally strong healing for Stolen Generations survivors and their families. Through education, research, and community-led programs, it addresses the ongoing impacts of colonisation and promotes truth-telling, dignity, and recovery.

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History of Closing the Gap

This resource outlines the origins and evolution of the Closing the Gap framework, first established in 2008 to address health, education, and socio-economic disparities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It details key agreements, milestones, and the shift towards community-led targets through the 2020 National Agreement.

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National Agreement on Closing the Gap - At a Glance 

The 2020 National Agreement represents a new partnership between governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives. It centres four Priority Reforms - shared decision-making, building community-controlled sectors, transforming government institutions, and improving data and accountability.

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First Australians They Have Come To Stay Episode 1 Aboriginal Documentary 

This opening episode of the acclaimed documentary series First Australians traces the early encounters between Aboriginal peoples and British colonists. It explores the profound impact of colonisation on land, culture, and sovereignty, foregrounding Aboriginal voices and historical truths often omitted from mainstream narratives.

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Early Childhood Care and Development Policy Partnership - SNAICC & Closing the Gap

This initiative, led by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, works in genuine partnership with governments to shape early childhood policies that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Grounded in community voice and cultural knowledge, the partnership advocates for transformative change in early learning, family support, and child development.

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2023 Referendum National Results – Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)

This official AEC page provides the final national results of the 2023 referendum on constitutional recognition and a Voice to Parliament for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The data includes national and state-by-state voting outcomes and highlights the importance of informed civic engagement, respectful dialogue, and ongoing advocacy.

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Shareena Clanton: “We Want to Be the Author of Our Own Destinies” – Q&A (ABC News)

Actor and advocate Shareena Clanton delivers a heartfelt and forceful message on ABC’s Q&A, calling for an end to the politicisation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lives. Her plea centres on self-determination, respect, and justice - urging major parties to stop using First Nations peoples as political pawns and instead listen to community voices.

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Understanding Systematic Oppression and Institutionalised Racism | Kyol Blakeney 

In this powerful talk, Kyol Blakeney, Aboriginal rights activist and student leader, explores the long-standing structures of systematic oppression and institutionalised racism in Australia. He critically examines historical and contemporary government policies, stereotypes, and their lasting impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. With clarity and courage, Kyol challenges audiences to reflect, question, and act.

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What is Close the Gap? | BTN Newsbreak

This student-friendly explainer introduces the Close the Gap campaign, which aims to address the stark differences in life expectancy and wellbeing between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. Highlighting the importance of equitable access to healthcare, education, and meaningful representation, the video also marks Close the Gap Day and the ongoing calls for government action.

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Early Years Learning Framework V2.0

This foundational document guides early childhood education in Australia. EYLF V2.0 strengthens commitments to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, children’s rights, and inclusive, holistic learning. It promotes pedagogical practices grounded in relationships, cultural responsiveness, and equity.

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First Nations children deserve a rights-based future, today

In this powerful statement, the Australian Human Rights Commission reaffirms the call for a rights-based approach to supporting First Nations children. Emphasising the importance of culture, connection, and community-led solutions, it advocates for policy and practice that uphold the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and embed equity at every level.

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UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Adopted by the UN in 2007, this declaration affirms the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples globally - including rights to culture, identity, language, education, and self-determination. It provides a vital human rights framework that underpins respectful and inclusive practice.

🖤💛❤️ 💚🤍💙 

United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

The UNCRC outlines the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of every child - everywhere. It recognises children as active participants in their lives, learning, and communities, and underpins rights-based education approaches. This UNICEF resource offers an accessible overview of the convention and its relevance to practice.

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The Treaty in brief

This resource provides a concise overview of the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 between Māori chiefs and the British Crown. It explores the treaty’s articles, historical significance, and ongoing role in Aotearoa New Zealand’s legal and cultural landscape.

What is Treaty?

This explainer by Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) outlines what a treaty means in the Australian context. It explores why treaties matter, what they can look like, and how they differ from symbolic gestures.

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The End of Silence: The genesis of the Uluru statement

In this compelling lecture, Wiradjuri journalist and author Stan Grant reflects on the need to confront Australia's silence around its colonial past. He speaks to truth-telling, identity, and the unfinished business of justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Treaty

This collection of articles from IndigenousX features diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices exploring the meaning, possibilities, and challenges of treaty in Australia. These pieces go beyond policy and politics - centering lived experience, sovereignty, and the vision for true self-determination.

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First Nations Voice

This paper reflects on the historic constitutional dialogues undertaken by the Referendum Council from 2016–2017, culminating in the Uluru Statement from the Heart. It centres on the significance of the Voice to Parliament as proposed by First Nations peoples - distinctively grounded in traditional owner authority.

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Curious about Aboriginal culture but unsure where to start?

Creative Spirits is a comprehensive and accessible platform created by Jens Korff to support non-Indigenous Australians in learning about Aboriginal culture, history, and contemporary issues. With well-researched articles, infographics, and practical insights, it’s a trusted resource for educators committed to respectful, informed, and culturally responsive teaching.

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Aboriginal Spirituality: Aboriginal Philosophy The Basis of Aboriginal  Social and Emotional Wellbeing

This discussion paper explores the spiritual and philosophical foundations of Aboriginal worldviews and their central role in social and emotional wellbeing. It challenges Western constructs of mental health and presents Indigenous perspectives grounded in interconnectedness, relationality, and holistic care.

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What is relationality? Indigenous knowledges, practices and responsibilities with kin

In this deeply reflective paper, trawlwulwuy scholar Lauren Tynan explores relationality - a foundational concept in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Drawing on stories from Country and majority Indigenous scholarship, the paper examines relationality as lived practice, ethical responsibility, and resistance to extractive approaches.

🖤💛❤️ 💚🤍💙 

The importance of understanding cultural diversity among Indigenous Peoples

This video unpacks the vast cultural diversity that exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, highlighting the differences in language, Country, kinship systems, and cultural practices across over 250 First Nations.

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Songlines: Aboriginal Art and Storytelling

This short video introduces the concept of Songlines - intricate maps of Country encoded in song, story, and ceremony. It explains how Aboriginal art is not only creative expression, but a vital way of recording and transmitting knowledge, relationships, and responsibilities.

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What is Cultural Competence?

In this short video, university students share personal insights into what cultural competence means to them - highlighting empathy, awareness, and respectful engagement across differences. While based in the U.S. context, the reflections offer a useful starting point for educators considering their own cultural competence in working with diverse children, families, and communities.

NITV

NITV is Australia’s national Indigenous broadcaster, dedicated to sharing First Nations stories, news, culture, and perspectives. It offers rich and diverse content by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including documentaries, news, children’s programming, and current affairs.

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Koori Mail - The Voice of Indigenous Australia

100% Aboriginal-owned and proudly independent, Koori Mail is Australia’s national Indigenous newspaper. It shares stories by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, covering culture, achievements, community news, and current affairs.

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IndigenousX

IndigenousX is an Indigenous-owned and -operated media platform that hosts a rotating roster of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander guest contributors. Each voice brings unique insight into culture, politics, education, health, identity, and more - unfiltered and in their own words.

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Connect with country at Quandamooka Festival

This short video showcases the Quandamooka Festival, a celebration of Country, culture, and community held across Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and the Redlands. Featuring over 55 events, the festival offers a powerful example of how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to live, share, and celebrate culture in vibrant, contemporary ways.

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First Languages Australia 

First Languages Australia works to support and promote the diverse languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This website offers resources, language maps, educational tools, and community projects that highlight the vitality and importance of First Languages across the continent.

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The importance of understanding cultural diversity among Indigenous Peoples

This video unpacks the vast cultural diversity that exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, highlighting the differences in language, Country, kinship systems, and cultural practices across over 250 First Nations.

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Welcome to Country

This video shares the deep cultural origins and continued importance of Welcome to Country rituals, reminding viewers that these are not just formalities, but sacred acts of respect, safety, and relationship. Rooted in protocols practiced for millennia, a Welcome ensures that visitors enter Country with the right spirit and intention.

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Deliver an Acknowledgement of Country that really means something

In this powerful talk, Djiribul woman Shelley Reys AO explores the heart and purpose behind Acknowledgement of Country. She offers practical guidance on how non-Indigenous Australians can move beyond rote recitation to create authentic, respectful acknowledgements that honour Country and connection.

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Acknowledgement of Country

This video supports educators in delivering meaningful Acknowledgements of Country with young children. It emphasises the importance of authenticity, understanding, and connection when honouring the Traditional Owners of the land. Aligned with Queensland’s early learning frameworks and the Kindy Uplift priority of culturally safe programs, it offers practical examples for everyday practice.

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Acknowledgement of Country | ABC ME Australia

This beautifully animated Acknowledgement of Country from ABC ME honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters across Australia. Featuring vibrant artwork by First Nations artist Arkie Barton and narration by Gamilaraay broadcaster Rudi Bremer, it offers a warm and engaging way to introduce children to respectful cultural protocols.

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What is an Acknowledgement of Country?

This short, accessible video clarifies the important distinction between an Acknowledgement of Country and a Welcome to Country - two cultural protocols that are often confused. It outlines who can deliver each, their cultural significance, and how they should be respectfully incorporated into different contexts.

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Acknowledgement of Country | Key Word Sign Australia Website

This video presents an Acknowledgement of Country using Key Word Sign, supporting inclusive communication for children and adults with diverse language needs. It offers a respectful and accessible way to involve all learners in culturally meaningful practices, aligning beautifully with inclusive and culturally safe pedagogy.

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What is an Acknowledgement of Country and why is it important?

In this thoughtful video, Professor Andrew Peters (Wurundjeri) explains the cultural and spiritual significance of Country for First Nations peoples. He highlights why Acknowledgements of Country matter - not as routine statements, but as moments to pause, connect, and pay respect.

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National Indigenous Australians Agency

The NIAA is the Australian Government agency responsible for leading and coordinating policy, programs, and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It plays a key role in delivering initiatives that support Closing the Gap, economic participation, cultural preservation, and local decision-making.

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Indigenous Governance Toolkit

Developed by the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, this toolkit supports communities and organisations to strengthen their own models of governance grounded in culture, Country, and community. It offers practical tools, videos, and case studies that honour First Nations leadership and decision-making practices.

🖤💛❤️  💚🤍💙 

Understand Indigenous governance

This section introduces the foundations of Indigenous governance - centred on relationships, cultural legitimacy, collective decision-making, and connection to Country. It challenges Western assumptions and highlights the strengths of First Nations systems of governance, both past and present.

🖤💛❤️  💚🤍💙 

When you say you 'don't see race'...

In this enduringly relevant piece, Zach Stafford challenges the well-meaning but harmful claim of colour-blindness. He explains how saying “I don’t see race” ignores the realities of racism and marginalisation, silences lived experiences, and avoids the hard work of equity and justice.

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The Healing Foundation 

The Healing Foundation is a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that supports trauma-aware, culturally strong healing for Stolen Generations survivors and their families. Through education, research, and community-led programs, it addresses the ongoing impacts of colonisation and promotes truth-telling, dignity, and recovery.

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Commonwealth Closing the Gap 2024 Annual Report and 2025 Implementation Plan

This official Commonwealth report outlines progress against the national Closing the Gap targets and details planned actions for 2025. It provides data, policy updates, and community-informed strategies across priority areas such as health, education, justice, and economic participation.

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What is relationality? Indigenous knowledges, practices and responsibilities with kin

In this deeply reflective paper, trawlwulwuy scholar Lauren Tynan explores relationality - a foundational concept in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Drawing on stories from Country and majority Indigenous scholarship, the paper examines relationality as lived practice, ethical responsibility, and resistance to extractive approaches.

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The solution to indigenous disadvantage | Kia Dowell | TEDxPerth

In this powerful talk, Gija woman Kia Dowell challenges Australia’s conventional policy responses to Indigenous disadvantage, asking whether they offer real solutions or meaningful outcomes. Drawing from her experience in business, community, and cross-sector collaboration, she offers a compelling vision for more effective, locally driven change.

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Connect with country at Quandamooka Festival

This short video showcases the Quandamooka Festival, a celebration of Country, culture, and community held across Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and the Redlands. Featuring over 55 events, the festival offers a powerful example of how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to live, share, and celebrate culture in vibrant, contemporary ways.

🖤💛❤️ 💚🤍💙 

Growing Up Our Way

This foundational resource introduces the Growing Up Our Way child rearing matrix, a culturally grounded framework that outlines the values, principles, and practices embedded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of raising children. It challenges deficit-based models and centres community strengths, kinship systems, and connection to Country. 

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Emerging Minds

Emerging Minds provides evidence-based resources, training, and practice tools to support the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families. With a strong focus on trauma-aware, culturally responsive, and strengths-based approaches, the platform includes resources specifically developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

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Ask Us Anything

In this powerful video, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff answer anonymously submitted questions to challenge common myths, stereotypes, and microaggressions - like “Is it ever OK to ask someone how Aboriginal they are?” The responses are honest, educational, and often deeply personal, fostering greater cultural understanding and respectful dialogue.

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Dadirri: The Quiet Stillness Inside Us

Dadirri, a concept shared by Dr Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr, is a Ngan’gikurunggurr word that expresses the practice of deep inner listening, quiet still awareness, and respectful waiting. It invites us to be present, to truly listen - not just with our ears, but with our hearts. 

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Aboriginal Pedagogies at the Cultural Interface

This influential thesis explores Aboriginal Pedagogies, including the “8 Ways of Learning” framework - a model of Aboriginal pedagogy developed through community consultation and deep engagement with cultural knowledge systems. Dr Yunkaporta maps how Indigenous ways of knowing can guide curriculum, pedagogy, and relationships within Western education systems without appropriation or dilution.

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Governance lingo

This glossary breaks down commonly used terms in Indigenous governance, offering clear, culturally grounded definitions from a First Nations perspective. It’s a helpful tool for building shared understanding and respectful dialogue across communities, services, and leadership teams.

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Understand Indigenous governance

This section introduces the foundations of Indigenous governance - centred on relationships, cultural legitimacy, collective decision-making, and connection to Country. It challenges Western assumptions and highlights the strengths of First Nations systems of governance, both past and present.

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Aboriginal Spirituality: Aboriginal Philosophy The Basis of Aboriginal  Social and Emotional Wellbeing

This discussion paper explores the spiritual and philosophical foundations of Aboriginal worldviews and their central role in social and emotional wellbeing. It challenges Western constructs of mental health and presents Indigenous perspectives grounded in interconnectedness, relationality, and holistic care.

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Connection to Country - Why is it important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?

In this heartfelt video extract, Aunty Munya shares her cultural knowledge and lived wisdom on why Country holds profound importance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Country is not just land - it is kin, story, spirit, and identity. This connection shapes law, lore, language, and belonging.

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Dadirri, shared by Ngangiwumirr artist and educator, Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann

In this beautifully crafted short film, Dr Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr introduces Dadirri - a Ngangikurungkurr word meaning deep inner listening and quiet, still awareness. Shared as a gift to the nation, Dadirri invites all Australians to slow down, connect deeply with Country, and nurture spiritual well-being through presence and patience.

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Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives by building relationships

Aligned with the Kindy Uplift priority of Creating culturally safe, inclusive and responsive Kindergarten Programs, this video features Cultural Advisors from the Department of Education sharing insights on how educators can build respectful, trust-based relationships with First Nations children, families, and communities.

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Posters and Templates - Foundations for Success

This collection of downloadable resources includes culturally responsive posters, planning templates, and visual tools designed to support early years educators in embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in everyday practice.

Aligned with the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guideline and Kindy Uplift priorities, these materials support inclusive, respectful, and strength-based learning environments.

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Possum Skin Pedagogy

This beautifully crafted guide introduces early childhood educators to Possum Skin Pedagogy - an approach centred on cultural knowledge, storytelling, and relationship with Country. Grounded in Victorian Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing, the guide offers practical ideas, reflective questions, and insights into respectful, relational pedagogy that honours cultural integrity.

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First Languages Australia 

First Languages Australia works to support and promote the diverse languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This website offers resources, language maps, educational tools, and community projects that highlight the vitality and importance of First Languages across the continent.

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SNAICC - National Voice for our Children

SNAICC is the national peak body representing the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Their work spans advocacy, policy development, and sector support, with a strong focus on early childhood, child protection, and the rights of First Nations families. The website provides resources, research, and tools to support culturally strong, child-centred practice. 

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What is relationality? Indigenous knowledges, practices and responsibilities with kin

In this deeply reflective paper, trawlwulwuy scholar Lauren Tynan explores relationality - a foundational concept in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Drawing on stories from Country and majority Indigenous scholarship, the paper examines relationality as lived practice, ethical responsibility, and resistance to extractive approaches.

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Songlines: Aboriginal Art and Storytelling

This short video introduces the concept of Songlines - intricate maps of Country encoded in song, story, and ceremony. It explains how Aboriginal art is not only creative expression, but a vital way of recording and transmitting knowledge, relationships, and responsibilities.

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What is Cultural Competence?

In this short video, university students share personal insights into what cultural competence means to them - highlighting empathy, awareness, and respectful engagement across differences. While based in the U.S. context, the reflections offer a useful starting point for educators considering their own cultural competence in working with diverse children, families, and communities.

Curious about Aboriginal culture but unsure where to start?

Creative Spirits is a comprehensive and accessible platform created by Jens Korff to support non-Indigenous Australians in learning about Aboriginal culture, history, and contemporary issues. With well-researched articles, infographics, and practical insights, it’s a trusted resource for educators committed to respectful, informed, and culturally responsive teaching.

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First Nations children deserve a rights-based future, today

In this powerful statement, the Australian Human Rights Commission reaffirms the call for a rights-based approach to supporting First Nations children. Emphasising the importance of culture, connection, and community-led solutions, it advocates for policy and practice that uphold the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and embed equity at every level.

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Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives by building relationships

Aligned with the Kindy Uplift priority of Creating culturally safe, inclusive and responsive Kindergarten Programs, this video features Cultural Advisors from the Department of Education sharing insights on how educators can build respectful, trust-based relationships with First Nations children, families, and communities.

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Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives starts at the gate

This video supports the Kindy Uplift priority of Creating culturally safe, inclusive and responsive Kindergarten Programs. Cultural Advisors share practical guidance on how embedding First Nations perspectives begins with intentional, respectful practice from the moment families arrive.

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Useful Links - Foundations for Success

This curated list connects educators to a wide range of culturally relevant resources, organisations, and initiatives that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s learning, wellbeing, and cultural identity.

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Emerging Minds

Emerging Minds provides evidence-based resources, training, and practice tools to support the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families. With a strong focus on trauma-aware, culturally responsive, and strengths-based approaches, the platform includes resources specifically developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

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Possum Skin Pedagogy

This beautifully crafted guide introduces early childhood educators to Possum Skin Pedagogy - an approach centred on cultural knowledge, storytelling, and relationship with Country. Grounded in Victorian Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing, the guide offers practical ideas, reflective questions, and insights into respectful, relational pedagogy that honours cultural integrity.

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Little Yarns – ABC Kids Listen

Little Yarns is a delightful podcast series introducing children to the diverse languages, cultures, and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Each short episode invites young listeners to learn a word from Country, hear from First Nations voices, and explore connections to land, language, and community.

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First Languages Australia 

First Languages Australia works to support and promote the diverse languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This website offers resources, language maps, educational tools, and community projects that highlight the vitality and importance of First Languages across the continent.

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