Reconciliation
We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora nation as the Traditional Custodians of our local area.
Our vision for reconciliation
Our vision for reconciliation is a Sydney that values the living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, embraces the truthful reflection of the histories and experiences of First Nations peoples, and is dedicated to equity, opportunity and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
In taking action, we strive to reflect the needs and aspirations of Sydney's First Nations communities and recognise their impact and contribution. We’ll listen to and elevate the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Why we’re doing this
By acknowledging our shared past, we lay the groundwork for a future which embraces all Australians based on mutual respect and shared responsibility for our land.
In 1788, the British established a convict outpost on the shores of Sydney Harbour. This had far reaching and devastating impacts on the Eora Nation, including the occupation and appropriation of traditional lands.
Despite the destructive impact of this invasion, Aboriginal cultures endured and are now globally recognised as the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.
Action areas
Cultural support & funding
Eora Journey: Recognition in the public domainA program of works of national significance that recognise and celebrate the living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.Strategies & action plans
Eora Journey economic development planA dynamic 10-year plan to contribute to sustained prosperity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.Published 30 November 2016Community centres
119 Redfern StreetA space for the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to gather, participate in activities and events, access services, and share knowledge and culture.RedfernStrategies & action plans
Reconciliation action planOur plan to build and strengthen meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.Published 23 November 2020Policies
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocolsObserving customs demonstrates respect for cultural traditions and histories.Published 17 January 2024Policies
Busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practice policy – local approvals policyAims to support and promote busking culture while balancing the expectations and needs of all users of public space.Published 27 February 2023
Programs and initiatives
We support and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and communities with a range of projects and events.
Advisory panels
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel
Important dates and events
Below is a summary of formal and informal dates that correspond to milestones in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history. We encourage the entire community to celebrate and commemorate Indigenous culture on these days.
City of Sydney News
News
Calling Aboriginal creatives: reimagine a significant Redfern spaceA new opportunity to redefine Redfern Terrace as a place for storytelling and somewhere the community can share knowledge and creativity.22 October 2024News
In pictures: NAIDOC in the City 2024A celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, businesses, dance and music.16 July 2024News
Celebrate NAIDOC Week in SydneyHere are our picks of the program, which runs from 7 to 14 July.9 July 2024News
NAIDOC in the City takes over Sydney Town Hall A celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, dance, art and enterprise as part of NAIDOC Week.5 July 2024News
What to do in Sydney this JulyFrom NAIDOC Week to Australia’s favourite art awards – here are 10 events to chase away the winter blues.4 July 2024News
City of Sydney employee Otis Williams shares what drew him to RedfernHear more from Otis about what reconciliation week means to him and what drew him to the City of Sydney.27 September 2024News
119 Redfern wins National Trust Hertiage Awards architecture prize The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and knowledge centre will ensure stories are treasured for generations to come.23 May 2024News
Echoes of the past honour the Stolen GenerationsLearn about the survivors of the Cootamundra Domestic Training Home for Aboriginal Girls (1912-1969) as Australia marks National Sorry Day.22 May 2024News
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge leads the way at 119 Redfern Street Project manager Tracey Duncan shares the importance of the community-driven space.13 May 2024News
In pictures: the opening of 119 Redfern StreetA centre for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share knowledge and practise culture has opened in the heart of Redfern.12 May 2024
Welcome to Country
As a mark of respect to the traditional custodians of Sydney, the City incorporates ‘Welcome to Country’ and ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ proceedings for appropriate events, functions and meetings.
We encourage other organisations in the local area to do the same and, as we receive many requests, we have put together a guide to organising a Welcome to Country.
Every year before Sydney’s world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebrations get underway, we acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land.
The 2018 New Year’s Eve fireworks featured a harbour-wide ceremony embracing and honouring the Dreaming of this place and our relationship to it.
Signs in the City's parks now welcome people with the words bujari gamarruwa, which means ‘good day’ in the language of the Gadigal. Hear the pronunciation of bujari gamarruwa and find out more about the Aboriginal language of Sydney.
Fountains and water features