Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Record No: 17/18127
Adopted: Enter Adoption Date
Document Title Aboriginal and Torres Strait Isalander Cultural Protocols and Guidelines
Council Adopted
Council Resolution No Enter Resolution No
Version Number 2.0
Responsible Department Corporate and Community Services
Date to be Reviewed November 2029
CHANGES TO DOCUMENT
Version Date Changes / Amendments
1 18/7/2017 New document for Federation Council
2 Sep 2025
The following has been revised in the Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Guidelines:
• The title changed from Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Guidelines to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols to encompass the broader scope of the document as outlined below
• Revision of Traditional Owners to include the Bangerang and Wiradjuri peoples
• Clarification of flag flying commitments (in the Chamber and for NAIDOC and Reconciliation Weeks)
• Addition of guidance on:
o Style and Key Word Usage
o Planning, delivering and responding to a Welcome to Country and Acknowledgment of Country
o Acknowledgment of Country for Council documents and websites
o Flags and precedence of use (consistent with government flag protocol requirements)
o Key dates of significance
o Broad information on Smoking Ceremonies, Respect for Elders, Types of other ceremonies and other cultural protocols.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Version No: 2.0
2
Acknowledgement of Country
FederationCouncilacknowledgestheTraditionalCustodians of the Country in which we work and live, who have cared for the lands and waters from the Murray River to Lake Urana for thousands of years.
We will work together for a united Council that values the diversity of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their strong and lasting culture, spirituality and connections to Country and Community.
We pay our respects to Elders past and present and acknowledge the Aboriginal people that contributed to the development of this resource.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Version No: 2.0
1. What are Cultural Protocols?
Cultural protocols refer to the customs, lore’s and codes of behaviour of a particular cultural group. Protocols are an important part of all cultures and provide guidance on how to treat and work with people in a respectful and useful way. They exist to ensure people behave and interact in an appropriate manner.
Observing the cultural protocols of a community demonstrates respect for the cultural traditions, history and diversity of that community. It also shows a willingness to acknowledge that the processes and procedures of another cultural community are equally valid and worthy of the same respect as one’s own cultural protocols.
Here in Australia, we’re fortunate enough to have one of the richest and oldest continuing cultures in the world. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, are the original inhabitants of Australia. This is something we should all be proud of and celebrate.
2. Purpose of the Document
The purpose of this document is to provide Federation Councillors and staff an understanding of some of the important protocols and cultural ceremonies of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, particularly when organising a Welcome to Country or conducting an Acknowledgement of Country.
It lists protocols and guidelines that specify procedures that can be followed in defined situations
Councillors and staff should continue to consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community representatives about how and when to observe these and other protocols in the most appropriate manner.
3. Scope
This document applies to Federation Council Councillors and staff who are involved in organising events and festivals, official meetings, openings of council owned or funded infrastructure or assets, ceremonies organised by, or on behalf of, the council, along with Council’s digital and print publications.
This document will be available to the broader community to encourage other organisations, community groups and event organisers to consider including a Welcome to Country or an Acknowledgement of Country on appropriate occasions.
4. Importance of Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country
Ceremonies and protocols are an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Respectful relationships and partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities involves an understanding and respect for such traditional ceremonies and protocols.
A Welcome to Country and an Acknowledgement of Country are both important Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ceremonies. Traditionally, a Welcome to Country was an invitation or permission for a person from a different area to pass through or enter. Doing so without it was unacceptable.
Both ceremonies also acknowledge the land as a living entity – one reason why 'Country' is capitalised.
By incorporating a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country into Council’s official major events, meetings and openings we can recognise and pay respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, their
culture and heritage, and demonstrate recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s unique position in in Australian culture and history
Incorporating a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country protocol shows that Council recognises Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the First Australians and custodians of this land. It demonstrates that we are aware of the past and ongoing connection of Aboriginal Peoples to place, land and waters that the Federation Council Local Government Area borders lie.
In an organisational context, it shows Council’s commitment to inclusion and diversity for Councillors and staff and sends a strong message to future Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander job or contractor applicants.
5. Welcome to Country
What is a Welcome to Country?
A Welcome to Country or Traditional Welcome is where an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Custodian welcomes people to their land at the beginning of a meeting, event or ceremony. Welcome to Country:
• Is undertaken by an Elder or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who have been given permission from an Elder to welcome visitors to their Country.
• Enables the Elders to give their blessing to the event and is an important mark of respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Occurs at the beginning of an event and can take many forms including singing, dancing, Smoking Ceremonies, and/or a speech.
• Whether spoken or performed, the aim of the ceremony is to acknowledge the traditional custodians and welcome the wider community to that area
• It is not a welcoming people to the country of Australia. It is in fact it is welcoming guests to the specific Country of that local Aboriginal nation.
There is no exact wording for a Welcome to Country. As such, the content of the ceremony should be negotiated between the Elder and the event organiser with reference to the nature of the event and community practices. Generally, Elders offer participants local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander history and cultural information and will go on to welcome the audience / attendees to Country.
Inclusion of a Welcome to Country Ceremony
Consideration should be given to the inclusion of a Welcome to Country ceremony, however any such ceremony must first be approved by an adopted Council resolution. If a Council resolution is not forthcoming, an Acknowledgment of Country shall instead be offered at the following:
• On Council run special occasions or at major outdoor events and festivals,
• At major official events or conferences hosted by the Federation Council, where Federal and NSW Government representatives are present, representatives of other Councils, the wider community and/or the media are present,
• Culturally significant activities associated with National Sorry Day (26th May), National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June) and NAIDOC Week (first week of July) and when permission has been given by the Traditional Custodians,
• Opening of significant Federation Council owned or supported open spaces or building assets, such as the opening of new playground or community centre,
• Launch of substantial Federation Council led programs, and
• Major and international sporting and cultural events where Federation Council is hosting, participating or is a major sponsor.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Organising a Welcome to Country
When organising a ‘Welcome to Country’, the first step is to ensure that negotiations with local Aboriginal Custodians occurs and that an appropriate Aboriginal Elders is invited to undertake the welcome at the event.
To request information for a ‘Welcome to Country’, it is culturally appropriate to contact local Aboriginal people employed at the local level in schools, agencies and other Aboriginal networks as they may be able to provide names and contact details of local Elders.
The next step is to approach and speak to the Elder. You should provide the Elder with the following:
• Introduction: Who you are (organisation and role);
• Type of event: A civic or community celebration, or an opening of a facility;
• Information on the theme and purpose of the event;
• Date, time and place;
• Who will meet/greet the Elder;
• Will others accompany the Elder; and
• Ask if any equipment is required (for example a microphone)
You should allow enough time to discuss with the Elder what form of welcome should be undertaken at the event and if particular protocols or customs need to be observed by those in attendance.
Observing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocols includes allowing time for traditional decision making and discussion. The planning timetable for Council’s official major events and openings should, where possible, allow time for consultations and negotiations with local Elders, Aboriginal communities or organisations, as well as allow time for the people you are speaking with, to have time to discuss and make any relevant decisions.
Fees for Cultural Services
In providing cultural services such as ‘Welcome to Country,’ artistic performances and ceremonies, it is important to acknowledge that Elders are using their own time and intellectual property.
For this reason, it is appropriate that people are offered payment and appropriate remuneration for their services. Appropriate payment and remuneration should be negotiated, considering speaker fees, travel to and from the event as well as the public profile nature of the event.
The service fee is usually negotiated and agreed between the Elder and event organiser and is made subject to the size and significance of the occasion. Always contact the Elder 3-5 days prior to the event to check if they are still available and finalise arrangements including details for payment.
Fees for Welcome to Country and other ceremonies are generally set by Land Councils, community organisations or individuals such as local Elders or representatives
• Fees can be variable.
• Fees may be higher for out-of-business hours or on days of significance.
• Food and travel may be an additional cost.
Please Note: The proposed range guide below is based on 2025 figures and is a guide only. Please note, that these costs vary and might not represent current costs.
At the Event
At the event, when working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elder or representative of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, you should
• Make certain an appropriate staff member is available to meet and accompany the Elder,
• Let the Elder know the order of proceedings (who will introduce them),
• Ask the Elder how they would like to be referred to (e.g., Aunty or Uncle),
• Make sure the person who will be introducing the Elder has the correct title, name and background information,
• Ensure the Elder performing the Welcome to Country is seated alongside other dignitaries and speakers at the event,
• Include the Elder in the event – ask them if they would like to stay or would they prefer to leave shortly after the Welcome.
At the conclusion of the Welcome, the audience should feel that they have been reminded of the cultural significance and connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have with the land.
Response to Welcome to Country
After the Elder or a representative has given their blessing to the event, the host or key speaker, in response should acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by paying respects to Elders past and present.
The speaker who follows immediately after the Welcome to Country Ceremony should provide a response. Part of the response should acknowledge the person who delivered the Welcome to Country.
The following text can be used in response to a Welcome to Country:
“Thank you (Elders’ name) for your Welcome. I respectfully acknowledge the past and present traditional owners of this land on which we are meeting / gathering today, the <traditional name/s> people. It is a privilege to be standing on <traditional name/s> Country.”
Acknowledging Elders
It is respectful and important that all speakers, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, acknowledge any Elders in attendance prior to presenting or speaking.
Calendar
To assist in planning for events or official openings, it is recommended that Federation Council staff or project officers discuss their proposed events or openings, in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols can be incorporated with Council’s Community Projects and Events Officer before proceeding.
6. Acknowledgement of Country at events and meetings
What is an Acknowledgement of Country?
For less formal occasions, it is respectful and appropriate to do an Acknowledgement of Country. Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-indigenous peoples can perform Acknowledgement of Country and is often the first item in opening a small event or meeting prior to welcomes, apologies and other items.
The host, chairperson or speaker begins by acknowledging that the meeting/gathering is taking place in the Country of the Traditional Owners. For example, a Council staff member may begin the meeting or event by acknowledging that the gathering is taking place on <traditional name/s> Country.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
An Acknowledgement of Country is:
• A statement of recognition and can be formal or informal. The wording acknowledges the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, and heritage and the ongoing relationship the Traditional Custodians have with their land.
• Can be used exclusively if an Elder or other appropriate member of the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities is not available to perform a Welcome to Country
• Is a way, that an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who is not a Traditional Owner or Custodian of the land where the event or meeting is being held can show respect to local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage.
• How a non-Indigenous person can show awareness and respect for the traditional custodians of the land on which the event or meeting is taking place.
• An opportunity for the wider community to show respect for local Aboriginal culture and the ongoing relationship that Traditional Owners or Custodians have with the land in which the Federation Council area lies.
Tips for an Acknowledgement to Country
Here are some tips for the wording of an Acknowledgement of Country:
'Custodians' or 'Owners'
• Both terms are in use.
Use both First Nations Groups
• Always use "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders" to include both distinct First Nations groups.
Know the Nation
• Research the correct First Nation on whose land you plan to do the acknowledgement.
• If there is a known dispute about boundaries, choose a more neutral form such as Traditional Owners or Custodians.
Practice pronunciation
• The spelling of a First Nation and the pronunciation of the word can be vastly different to common English pronunciation rules.
• Ask how to pronounce and practice beforehand.
Respect Elders
• Capitalise the word "Elders" as a sign of respect.
• Include land. Always include a reference to Aboriginal land.
• Be personal. Use “I” rather than Federation Council or "we", to make the acknowledgement more personal.
Acknowledgement of Country example
There is no specific wording for an Acknowledgement of Country, when opening an event, or at the start of a meeting A generic statement like this can be used if you don’t know the name of the people on whose land you are gathered, or if there are disputes about the land (multiple Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples identify as Traditional Custodians for that area). For example,
'I begin today by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we <gather/meet> today, and pay my respects to their Elders past and present. I extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples here today.'
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols Reference: 17/18127
A specific statement like this can be used where there are no disputes and you know the name of the peoples on whose land you are gathered. For example,
'I begin today by acknowledging the <insert name of peoples here> Peoples, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we <gather/meet> today, and pay my respects to their Elders past and present. I extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples here today.'
Inclusion of an Acknowledgement of Country
Consideration should be given for the inclusion of an Acknowledgement of Country as a minimum, at the following:
• All formal Ordinary and Extraordinary Meetings of the Council; excluding any and all Committees of Council that are not open to the public or live streamed,
• Citizenship ceremonies,
• State-wide or regional meetings conducted by the Federation Council,
• Council ran community engagement forums,
• Award presentations hosted by the Federation Council,
• Opening of Federation Council owned or supported facilities,
• Small scale or local events and activities such as Youth Week, Volunteer Week and Seniors Week, and
• At Federation and Surrounds Interagency and Federation Primary Prevention Team meetings
Suggested practice
An Acknowledgment of Country should be a minimum requirement for council and community events and meetings where external stakeholders are present In the case of opening of a major official event or opening of significant open space or building infrastructure, a Welcome to Country might be considered.
7. Other Aboriginal Cultural Ceremonies or Practices
Other ceremonies or practices may also be undertaken as considered appropriate and desirable by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples, including dances and performances.
Departments within Federation Council may choose to also include one or more of the following ceremonies when organising official events
• Personal or cultural histories,
• Dance or other performances,
• Playing of the Didgeridoo, and/or
• Other ceremonies such as “Smoking Ceremonies.”
Remember to consult with local Aboriginal custodians at all times on the best form of recognition and cultural practice ceremonies as part of your event planning.
Cultural or personal histories
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are often asked to give personal or cultural histories to non-First Nations communities to create a greater understanding and awareness about their history and culture. The guest speaker may be able to give a personal account, talk on history and/or provide audiences with knowledge of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples cultural heritage and practices.
Dancers
Dancers are often used as part of ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremonies. Charges vary according to level of training, the size of the company, the nature of the dance required and whether the dancers charge by the hour or per performance.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127 Version No: 2.0
Playing of the Didgeridoo
Didgeridoo players are frequently used in ‘Welcome’ Ceremonies to “call’ speakers, special guests and the audience to begin the ceremony. A didgeridoo player may also be used as a soloist in other parts of the ceremony.
Please Note: It is never appropriate for a non-Aboriginal person to play the didgeridoo unless invited by an Elder. Extra charges may apply on top of the Welcome to Country fee for an Elder to perform a didgeridoo performance.
Smoking Ceremony
Smoking Ceremonies are religious practices conducted by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with specialised cultural knowledge, such as an Elder, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the spiritual knowledge or a cultural teacher.
A Smoking Ceremony is a purification and cleansing custom to ward of bad spirits that uses smouldering (and typically locally sourced) native plants to produce smoke. It assists in cleansing the space in which the ceremony takes place and promotes the protection and well-being of visitors.
Given the significant nature, Smoking Ceremonies are usually only performed at major events. It may take place during a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country or as part of various performances. It can also be performed as its own ceremony. Extra charges may apply on top of the Welcome to Country fee for an Elder to perform a smoking ceremony.
8. Cultural Protocols and Ceremonies
The Federation Council recognises and acknowledges that there are a significant number of Aboriginal and ceremonies and/or protocols that necessitate respect. Some are sensitive and not discussed or shared with the broader community.
Gender Protocols - Women’s Business and Men’s Business
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture regards some information as specific and sacred to either men or women. This knowledge is sacred and recorded in a way that only men or women can access. There are certain places and practices just for women or for men as apart of ancestorial law. The tradition of this lore has been passed down through generations to help protect scared sites and ceremonial practices and events.
Women’s and men’s business can relate to health, upbringing, ceremonies, and maintenance of culturally significant places and sacred sites. For example, some sites are for men only because they are used for special initiation ceremonies to support young males to grow into men. Women’s business involves practices and sacred places to nurture young girls to become women, so they can provide the same role to the next generation of girls.
Men are not to know what happens in Women’s business and Women are not to know what happens in Men’s business this is the Lore.
It is not likely that Council will be able to distinguish between men’s and women’s business. Council needs to be aware that such issues exist and seek advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples about when they are likely to arise and how to manage such issues.
Sacred Sites
Sacred sites are places of cultural significance to Aboriginal people. They may be parts of the natural landscape such as hills, rocks, trees and springs that are not always spectacular or interesting to the non-Aboriginal eye. They may be places that are significant because they mark a particular act of a creation being. They also include burial grounds and places where particular ceremonies have been held. In some cases, the act of identifying or talking about a
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Version No: 2.0
site may in itself be a violation. Custodians have particular responsibilities to protect and maintain sacred sites. This may be done in various ways including holding ceremonies, visiting the places and singing the songs associated with them.
Sorry Business
The period of grief and mourning for deceased Aboriginal people referred to as Sorry Business. Sorry Business practices vary between groups and families. If the affected person is an Elder or is esteemed, Sorry Business can require that participation extends beyond family ties and to the community and even different states and territories. Given the wide kinship ties of Aboriginal people, it is a priority that respect and community responsibilities are adhered to. This can mean people are away from their regular activities and work. The length and timing of Sorry Business varies and may require a person to return to Country. Some practices related to Sorry Business may include:
• Aboriginal people staying inside their homes for an indeterminate period of time
• Aboriginal people not participating in particular non-bereavement activities
• Traveling to the funeral and staying an indeterminable time.
Naming the Deceased
In many Aboriginal communities, it is a common cultural protocol to avoid using the name of a deceased person, as it is believed to disturb their spirit. This practice, can involve using substitute names or referring to the deceased in a roundabout way, and can last for varying lengths of time, sometimes for months or even years. It is crucial to respect these protocols and seek guidance from the family or community when dealing with the death of an Aboriginal person.
Images or Play Audio Recordings
It is tradition not to show images or play audio recordings of deceased Aboriginal people. Aboriginal people believe that if the deceased person's name is mentioned, the spirit is called back to this world. Some families may be comfortable to permit the use of images or audio of a deceased relative. But permission must always be sought from the family and confirmed in writing. This is an element of some peoples’ sorry business and can be seen on any materials with Aboriginal people in them.
It is good practice to include a warning usually at the start of video footage and documents containing the images and/or voices of people who may have passed away
In a video, you could include the following text or sound recording for a deceased person/s warning:
‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are advised that the following video may contain images and voices of people who have passed away.’
In a document you could include the following text for a deceased person/s warning:
‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are advised that this document may contain names, images and references of people who have since passed away.’
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols Reference: 17/18127
9. Acknowledgement of Country in printed and digital documents and Council websites
A suggested wording for a respectful and inclusive Acknowledgment of Country for inclusion in Council’s published resources or documents that will be distributed to the broader community, such as Council strategies and plans is written below:
Acknowledgement of Country
Federation Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country in which we work and live.
“Federation Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Country in which we work and live, who have cared for the lands and waters from the Murray River to Lake Urana for thousands of years.
We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We will work together for a united Council that values the diversity of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their strong and lasting culture, spirituality and connections to Country and Community.”
If a document in which Aboriginal people have assisted with the development, you may like to include instead:
‘We pay our respects to Elders past and present and acknowledge the Aboriginal people that contributed to the development of this resource.’
10. Intellectual Property and Remuneration
In providing cultural services such as Welcome to Country, artistic performances and ceremonies Aboriginal people are using their intellectual property. As such providers of these services should be appropriately remunerated. Appropriate remuneration and/or assistance should be negotiated between the cultural service provider and the Event Organiser.
11. Style and Key Word Usage
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander People
In keeping with advice from Reconciliation Australia ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’ is to be used when referring to people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. Always use a capital for Aboriginal People/s, Torres Strait Islander People/s, Indigenous, Traditional Owner, and Elder.
Distinction between ‘country’ and ‘Country’
The distinction between ‘country’ and ‘Country’ In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, the meaning of Country is more than just ownership or connection to land.
Aboriginal people refer to the word Country to describe family origins and associations with parts of Australia. The collective identity of Aboriginal communities is also linked to place. The community itself is part of Country as well as each person in it.
Country is not the same as ‘Australia’ – it is a spiritual concept as well as a physical one: it encompasses landmarks but also people, skies, waterways. This meaning extends beyond the geographical boundaries of the country of Australia.
Traditional Owners and Custodians
Traditional owners and custodians are the terms used to describe the original Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples who inhabited an area.
• 'Owner' reminds that land was never formally ceded to anyone and of Australia's history of denying ownership and Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people's sovereignty over their lands.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
• 'Custodians' reminds of the ongoing obligation to look after country, and that Aboriginal people don't own the land, but it owns them.
Traditional Custodians today are descendants of these original inhabitants and have continuing spiritual, cultural, political and often physical connection with particular land where their ancestors lived.
Aunty/Uncle
Description Aunty and Uncle are commonly used terms of address for an Elder in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities (not necessarily a blood relative).
Under some circumstances it may be appropriate for a non-First Nation person to address an Elder Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person as Aunty or Uncle. This may include when the person has been introduced using the term Aunty or Uncle and/or when the person is personally known to them.
Clan
The ‘clan’ is a local descent group, larger than a family but based on family links through a common ancestry. The term ‘clan’ has an additional and different meaning that comes from non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For this reason, the term should be used with care, and only with local community guidance.
Dance
Dance is an important part of Ceremony. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture was predominantly oral culture – before colonisation there was no written language, so all knowledge was passed on and taught via stories, song and dance.
Elders
Elders are respected members of their communities, and custodians of knowledge, customs and traditional beliefs. They are trusted to provide guidance, share wisdom and advise on their Country including ancestral connections, leadership and cultural protocols. Elders are referred to as ‘Aunty’ or ‘Uncle’, which are terms of respect. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, the term ‘Elder’ does not necessarily correlate with age; it is about how someone is accepted by their community as an Elder.
Elders act as representatives and decision makers for their communities. They also provide guidance and counselling, are responsible for ensuring cultural practices and protocols are followed with respect and pass down their knowledge. In this way, stories are shared, and new generations of Elders emerge.
Mob
‘Mob’ is a term identifying a group of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, associated with a particular place or Country. ‘Mob’ is a term that is extremely important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples because it is used to identify who they are and where they are from. ‘Mob’ is generally used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and between groups. Therefore, it may not be appropriate for non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to use this term.
Nation
‘Nation’ refers to a culturally distinct group of people associated with a particular, culturally defined area of land or country. Each nation has boundaries that cannot be changed, and language is tied to that nation and its country.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127 Version No: 2.0
The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) map of Aboriginal Australia sets out the location of Aboriginal nations within NSW. Please note: that these locations are only approximate and may not be conclusive in the view of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
13. Local Aboriginal Lands Councils
If you are unsure whether a group or individual may be sensitive about an issue or issues of protocol or ceremony you can contact our Local Aboriginal Land Council or speak with someone from a local Aboriginal organisation. In most cases people will acknowledge if you are being intrusive, or if they are not permitted to talk to you about the protocol or ceremony because of age, gender or Clan or Tribal group issues. If in any doubt about these types of issues always ask.
A Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) is a community organisation organised by regions that are state legislated and are caretakers of the land on behalf of Aboriginal people. They are organised by Aboriginal people but (in some instances) they are not the Traditional Owners of the land they care for. They have historically advocated for recognition of traditional land rights, and also for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in other areas such as equal wages and adequate housing and basic human rights.
Local Aboriginal Land Councils aim to provide employment, training and to explore business and community development opportunities for members. Local Aboriginal Land Councils regions can be reflective of Aboriginal Clan boundaries.
Under the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act, the function of a Local Aboriginal Land Council is to “to improve, protect and foster the best interests of all Aboriginal persons within the council’ area and other persons who are members of that land council”. This includes promoting the protection of Aboriginal culture and the heritage of Aboriginal persons in its area, conservation and land management of Aboriginal sites and relics, and promoting the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage with other Government authorities by advising and educating the broader community about the significance of Aboriginal culture, heritage and sites.
The Federation Council Local Government Area is intersected by four Local Aboriginal Land Councils:
Albury & District Local Aboriginal Lands Council
• Telephone: 02 6025 7075
Cumeragunja Local Aboriginal Lands Council
• Telephone: 03 5869 3372
Narrandera Local Aboriginal Lands Council
• Telephone: 02 6959 1823.
Leeton & District Local Aboriginal Lands Council
• Telephone: 02 6953 4344
12. Significant Dates
Some of the significant dates in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples calendar are outlined below. Depending on the occasion, these dates are marked by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in a variety of ways, including ceremonies, celebrations, events and activities.
The Apology (13 February)
On 13 February 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made a formal apology, on behalf of the Australian Government, to Aboriginal people for “their profound grief, suffering and loss” caused by the impact of past laws and policies
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June)
The dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision. The week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.
National Sorry Day (26 May)
Sorry Day marks the anniversary of the tabling of the Bringing Them Home report in the Australian Parliament in 1997 which explored the forced removal policies of the Australian Government during the 20th Century and the impact of these policies on the Aboriginal children, their families and communities, known as the Stolen Generations.
NAIDOC Week (First week of July)
NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Its origins can be traced to the emergence of Aboriginal groups in the 1920s which sought to increase awareness of the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians in the wider community. NAIDOC Week is held in the first full week of July. It is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements and is an opportunity to recognise the contributions that Indigenous Australians make to our country and our society. All Australians are encouraged to participate in the celebrations and activities that take place across the nation during NAIDOC Week.
Coming of the Light Festival (1 July)
The Coming of the Light Festival is a significant day for many Torres Strait Islanders as it marks the day (1 July 1871) that the London Missionary Society first arrived, introducing Christianity to the region. Torres Strait Islanders are predominantly of Christian faith and celebrate this event with religious and cultural ceremonies across the Torres Strait Islands and on mainland Australia.
National Aboriginal Children’s Day (4 August)
National Aboriginal Children’s Day is the largest national day to celebrate our children. This day is celebrated across Australia each year on 4th August. National Aboriginal Children’s Day provides opportunities for all Australians to celebrate the strengths and culture of Aboriginal children across Australia.
13. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags
Council will, on specific occasions, fly the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag to demonstrate respect and to foster reconciliation and community partnership. We recognise their unique cultures and historical connection across this region.
Council commits to exclusively fly the Australian flag within the Council Chamber during official sessions and on all flagpoles located across the Federation Council area.
Council also commits to flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on available flagpoles to acknowledge NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week.
Flying of flags will be in accordance with the Australian Government’s Flag Flying Protocols. These protocols require the Australian flag to be flown in a position of precedence over other flags:
• Events at which flags are shown, the order of display from an audience perspective from left to right is, the Australian flag, NSW flag, the Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander flag.
• Where one flagpole is taller than others, the Australian flag should be positioned here, with other flags at the same height beside it. The other flags should once again be ordered by precedence from left to right.
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127 Version No: 2.0
Aboriginal Flag
The Aboriginal Flag was designed by Harold Thomas, a Luritja man from Central Australia. It was first flown at Victoria Square in Adelaide, South Australia, on National Aborigines Day in July 1971. It became the official flag for the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra after it was first flown there in 1972. Since then, it has become a widely recognised symbol of the unity and identity of Aboriginal people.
• Black: Represents the Aboriginal people of Australia;
• Yellow Circle: Represents the Sun – the giver of life and protector;
• Red: Represents the red earth – red ochre used in ceremonies and the Aboriginal people’s spiritual relationship to the land.
Torres Strait Islander flag
The Torres Strait Islander flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok of Thursday Island as a symbol of unity and identity for Torres Strait Islanders. Adopted in 1992, it was the winning entry in a design competition run by the Island Coordinating Council, a Queensland statutory body representing the community councils in the Torres Strait.
• Green: Represents the land;
• Blue: Represents the sea;
• White: Represents peace;
• Black: Represents the Torres Strait Islander peoples;
• At the centre of the Torres Strait Islander flag is a white Dhari (dancer’s headdress) that is a symbol of the Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Underneath the Dhari is a five-pointed star that represents the five major island groups, and the navigational importance of stars to the people of the Torres Strait.
Permission is not required to fly either the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flags. However, the reproduction of either flag (for example, on a flyer or poster) must only occur in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968 and with the relevant permissions.
14. References & Associated Documents
Welcome to Country & Acknowledgement of Country - Creative Spirits. Date viewed April 2025. https://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/spirituality/welcome-to-countryacknowledgement-of-Country.
Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country, Reconciliation Australia. Date viewed April 2025. https://nrw.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Acknowledgementof-Country_Welcome-to-Country.pdf
Q & A – Flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags, Reconciliation Australia. Date viewed April 2025 https://www.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Q-A-%E2%80%93-Flying-the-Aboriginal-andTorres-Strait-Flags.pdf
Public Service Commission. Date viewed April 2025 https://www.psc.nsw.gov.au/culture-andinclusion/aboriginal-workforce/everyonee28099s-business
Reconciliation NSW, Welcome to Country Factsheet. Date viewed November 2024 https://reconciliationnsw.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021-Welcome-to-country-factsheet.pdf
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Version No: 2.0
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols - City of Sydney. Date viewed April 2025 https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/policies/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-protocols
NSW Environment and Heritage, Date viewed April 2025 https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Deadly Story. Date viewed March 2025. https://deadlystory.com
Communicating Positively: A Guide to Appropriate Aboriginal Terminology- NSW Health. Date viewed 6 August 2025. https://www1.health.nsw.gov.au/pds/ActivePDSDocuments/GL2019_008.pdf
NOTE: This is a controlled document. If you are reading a printed copy, please check that you have the latest version by checking it on Councils Electronic Document system. Printed or downloaded versions of this document are uncontrolled
Federation Council - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols
Reference: 17/18127
Version No: 2.0