Recognising First Nations' culture: Fostering workplace understanding and appreciation

Australia has the distinction of being home to the world’s oldest continuous living culture. For over 65,000 years, Indigenous Australians have nurtured and safeguarded this land, its diverse landscapes, and vast coastlines.

As businesses, it is essential that we recognise this history, and that we demonstrate understanding and respect for this remarkable culture. By creating culturally safe environments that are inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we not only demonstrate our commitment to diversity but also benefit from the rich contributions made to our society and economy, through First Nations Australians.

Celebrated annually in Australia, National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week is a significant event that acknowledges and honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Held every July, NAIDOC Week promotes awareness and respect, celebrating the rich heritage and contributions of these communities.

Why is NAIDOC week important?

NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It promotes awareness and understanding of their contributions and encourages respect for their traditions and rights.

When did NAIDOC start?

NAIDOC Week, as we know it today, began in 1974 when NADOC was expanded to include Torres Strait Islanders and renamed the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC). The week is celebrated every July.

Who started NAIDOC week?

NAIDOC Week has its roots in the Day of Mourning protest held by Aboriginal leaders on Australia Day in 1938. The idea for a national week of celebration emerged from the formation of the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee (NADOC) in the 1950s.

To truly embrace reconciliation through diversity, it is crucial for organisations to comprehend and promote an understanding of various aspects related to Indigenous Australian culture. This understanding includes:

• Cultures and language: It is imperative to use respectful language and avoid offensive terminology. Effective communication necessitates knowledge of phrases that may unknowingly perpetuate disrespect. By fostering dialogues that promote confidence and positive outcomes, we can bridge gaps and establish meaningful connections.
• Perspectives on Australia’s history: An awareness of the systemic treatment Indigenous Australians have faced throughout history is vital. Understanding the historical context allows us to challenge existing biases, rectify misconceptions, and work towards reconciliation.

• Contributions to Australia: Recognising and celebrating the significant contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have made to the fabric of Australian society is crucial. This acknowledgment helps create a sense of appreciation and value for the unique heritage and achievements of First Nations Peoples.

• Cultural protocols and belief systems: Businesses, organisations, and public sector bodies must consider and respect the cultural protocols, contrasts, and belief systems that are central to Indigenous Australian communities. This consideration fosters mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.

• Opportunities for collaboration: Embracing the opportunity to work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples opens doors for meaningful partnerships. By recognising and supporting Indigenous Australian leadership roles, we can better meet the needs of the families and individuals we serve. Adhering to relevant legislation, such as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005, Human Rights Act 2019, Racial Discrimination Act 1975, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), ensures that organisations are accountable for their actions.

The first step towards achieving these objectives is recognition; to cultivate awareness of Indigenous values and traditions while addressing any gaps in knowledge about Australian history.

As a company that values diversity and inclusivity, we send a strong and positive signal to our workforce. By implementing policies that support cultural diversity and awareness, we not only create a harmonious workplace but also open doors for business opportunities for Indigenous Australian people.

Australian businesses have much to gain from collaboration with First Nations communities. Greater cooperation can lead to sustainable economic growth, including the optimisation of ecosystem services and the utilisation of local or traditional knowledge. ?

Positive engagement also contributes to the success of development initiatives, as it maintains social licences and promotes active participation in business ventures as owners, contractors, and employees. Conversely, failing to embrace stronger relationships and respect the rights of Indigenous Australian people can expose businesses to legal, financial, and reputational risks. ?

During NAIDOC Week, let us seize the opportunity to deepen our understanding of Australia’s First Nations peoples. By fostering workplace understanding and appreciation for Indigenous Australian culture, we pave the way for a more inclusive society.

Embracing diversity is not only the right thing to do; it also enriches our businesses, our communities, and our nation.