An ‘Acknowledgment of Country’ is a way that all people can show awareness and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage and the ongoing relationship the traditional owners have with their land. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can perform ‘Acknowledgement of Country’. It is a demonstration of respect dedicated to the traditional custodians of the land (or sea) where the event, meeting, school function or conference takes place. It can be formal or informal.

A ‘Welcome to Country’ is a small ceremony where traditional custodians, usually Elders, welcome people to their land. This is a significant recognition and is made through a formal process, although it’s up to the Elder how they decide to carry out the ceremony. It also depends on the location of the event and the practice of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community which can vary greatly according to region.

NATSICC (National Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council), in partnership with the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference have produced a guide for Schools, Parishes and communities to use to gain a better understanding of the ceremonies and their importance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We have copies in our church foyers, and you can access the Guide here.