Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country

Welcome to Country

A Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country are protocols that precede an activity or event.

They are a sign of respect and recognition of the Traditional Aboriginal custodians who are Australia’s first peoples.

When planning a large significant event, a local traditional custodians should be invited to perform a Welcome to Country.

A Welcome to Country can only be performed by a Traditional Custodian (Elder or family member).

If a Traditional Custodian is not available, an Acknowledgment of Country can be made by the host or speakers at the event.

For more information and to arrange a Welcome to Country please contact the Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation on 4865 1212 or by email at enquiries@yuwi.com.au.

Acknowledgement of Country

An Acknowledgment of Country is a way of showing awareness of and respect for the traditional Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders custodians of the land on which the meeting or event is being held, and recognising the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to their country.

An Acknowledgement of Country can be performed by anyone (Indigenous or non-Indigenous).

For example, “I would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we are meeting, and pay my respects to Elders  past, present and emerging”.