We pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the lands we now call home, their elders past and present.
We recognise the resilience and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and we honour their connection to the lands, waters and sky.
Some of us have come from afar, seeking shelter, safety or new beginnings. For some, it was our ancestors who made the challenging journey to Australia. We carry our birthplaces and homelands in our hearts and find comfort in being welcomed by those who have inhabited these lands for over 60,000 years, whose sovereignty remains unbroken. As we walk on these lands, we promise to care for Country, which continues to care for us.
We acknowledge that storytelling is essential to keeping cultures alive, passing down traditions and connecting us to ancestors.
As we work towards a more inclusive future with fair and humane policies for those seeking sanctuary, we remain committed to learning from and standing alongside First Nations people and working with them for the achievement of a fully reconciled Australia.
