TOMRA Cleanaway is one of 3,000 organisations with a Reconciliation Action Plan. This shows our genuine commitment to embedded reconciliation.
An Acknowledgement of Country shows respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this land.
What is an Acknowledgement of Country?
At its core, Acknowledging Country is a way for non-Indigenous people to show respect for the Traditional Owners of the land they are on. It recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a continuing connection to their land, waters, and culture. It’s a formal and respectful way to open a meeting, event, or gathering.
Key Principles:
1. Respect and Sincerity:
The most important aspect is to deliver the Acknowledgement with genuine respect and sincerity. It’s not just a formality; it’s about acknowledging a deep and ongoing connection.
2. Not a Welcome to Country:
An Acknowledgment of Country is different from a “Welcome to Country.” A Welcome to Country is delivered by an Elder or Traditional Owner of the land you are on, and it formally welcomes visitors to their Country. Only a Traditional Owner can give a Welcome to Country. Anyone can give an Acknowledgment of Country.
Top Tips for Delivering an Acknowledgment of Country:
Identify the Traditional Owners:
- Best Scenario: If you know the specific Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Nation(s) whose land you are on, use their name(s). For example, “I would like to acknowledge the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, the Traditional Owners of the land on which we gather today.”
- If Unsure/General: If you don’t know the specific Traditional Owners, or if you’re acknowledging a broader area, you can use a more general phrase like: “I would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we are gathering today, and pay my respects to Elders past and present.”
Always Acknowledge Elders:
- Always include “and pay my respects to Elders past and present.” Elders hold significant cultural knowledge and leadership roles.
- You can also add “and emerging leaders” or “and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people present here today” if you wish, but “past and present” is essential.
Include All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples:
- It’s good practice to acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A common phrasing is “I extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples present today.”
Personalise It (Briefly):
- While sticking to the core message, you can add a brief personal touch to make it sincere. For example, “I feel privileged to be on this land today…” or “I am grateful for the opportunity to gather here…” Keep it concise and respectful.
Placement:
- Deliver the Acknowledgment at the beginning of a meeting, event, or presentation. It sets a respectful tone for the entire gathering.
Voice and Tone:
- Speak clearly, respectfully, and with appropriate gravitas. This isn’t something to rush through.
Example Acknowledgment (Adapt as needed):
“I would like to acknowledge the [Name of Traditional Owners, e.g., Dhurag] peoples, the Traditional Owners of the land on which we are gathering today. I pay my respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here. I feel privileged to be on this land today.”
