Protocols

​​​Practices such as Welcome to Country and Acknowledgment of Country enable the wider community to share in Aboriginal cultures and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and lead to better community relationships and understanding. Observing these practices connects participants with Country and provides a welcoming atmosphere and spiritual presence to the place upon which people are meeting.

The department has developed the following resources for organising a Welcome to Country or acknowledging Traditional Owners, Custodians and Elders:

• Acknowledgment of Country statement A4—shows respect for the Traditional Owners of the lands and waterways on which a meeting or event is taking place
• Acknowledgment of Country A3 poster—can be printed and displayed around schools or offices
• Acknowledgement of Country video—can be played at meetings or events
• Overview of Welcome to Country and Acknowledgment of Country

Resources are also available to assist staff and support students to write their own heartfelt Acknowledgement:

• How to craft a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country
• 5 things to include in an Acknowledgement from the heart
• Guide for teachers assisting students to craft a heartfelt Acknowledgement.