why is this important?

Schools and early learning centres educate our youngest Victorians and therefore have a crucial role to play in improving the lives of First Peoples across the state. It is important that schools and early learning centres feel welcoming and that First Peoples children feel supported and culturally safe while learning. For the wider community, it is important that young people are informed of our shared history and given opportunities to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories.
Local government has a close relationship with local schools and early learning centres, and therefore have a role to play in facilitating reconciliation activities across the municipality and ensuring our future leaders are knowledgeable and prepared to grasp the world of opportunities that will be present in a reconciled Victoria.

Recommended Strategies

• Work with local education providers to build their relationships with Traditional Owners.
• Provide financial support for art projects by First Peoples, including murals, to be created on the grounds of schools and early learning centres.
• Invite schools and early learning centres to be a part of council’s events on significant dates including Sorry Day and NAIDOC Week.
• Work with schools and early learning centres to partner with local Traditional Owners so students can create a personalised Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners guided by Elders.