A Welcome to Country occurs at the beginning of a formal event and can include singing, dancing, smoking ceremonies and/or speeches in traditional languages or English. It is delivered by Traditional Custodians or Aboriginal Elders who have been given permission to welcome visitors to Country.
To organise a Welcome to Country, first contact the
Local Aboriginal Land Council where the meeting or event will be held. Ensure you give sufficient notice and explain what the event is for and why it is being held.
To show respect for Aboriginal cultures, heritage and connection to land and waters, we deliver an Acknowledgement of Country. Acknowledgements of Country can be given by a non-Aboriginal person or an Aboriginal person and don’t require the person to be born in the local area. However, the acknowledgement should be delivered in a way that is meaningful and sincere.
Transport’s Aboriginal Cultural Protocol outlines how to deliver an Acknowledgement of Country. Check with your council or association for your specific reference guidelines.
Transport’s Aboriginal Cultural Protocol
Transport’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is our roadmap to making a genuine and sustainable contribution to reconciliation. We're deeply committed to reconciliation as we work towards a more equal and respectful future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. Everyone has a role to play.
Transport's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
Our specialist teams work with Aboriginal communities across the state to deliver road safety programs, engagement and access to licensing activities. Learn more about our Aboriginal projects