Aboriginal Programs
Acknowledgement
In recognition of the deep history and culture of lutruwita/Tasmania, Derwent Valley Council acknowledges the Linawina1 people, as the Traditional Owners of the land upon which we work. We acknowledge and pay our respects to all Tasmanian Aboriginal communities; all of whom have survived invasion and dispossession and continue to maintain their identity and culture.
1 Spelt ‘Leenowwenne in English, Linawina is the palawa kani spelling for the people of wulawali (New Norfolk)
Derwent Valley Council Strategic Plan 2023 - 2033
Our Strategic Plan reflects the aspirations, priorities and values of the Derwent Valley community, encapsulating their vision for the future and the desired outcomes for the next decade.
Derwent Valley Council Strategic Plan 2023-2033
One strategy in our Strategic Plan is to continue our journey to increase understanding, respect, and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Derwent Valley.
Through this strategy, we seek to strengthen relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, organisations, and groups to foster mutual respect, build our own cultural awareness as an organisation, and benefit the community.
Reconciliation Action Plan
Derwent Valley Council has embarked on the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan, supported by Reconciliation Tasmania and Reconciliation Australia. The process so far has included establishing an internal project team, a Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, and engagement with staff, elected members, and other local Councils as part of initial scoping.
A key priority has been building culturally respectful relationships and connections with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Aboriginal organisations that recognise the diversity of voices, aspirations, and views.
This ongoing process has involved listening and hearing. Ensuring the development and implementation process remains culturally respectful is a key priority. Many lessons will be learned and steps taken along the way.
The development of the RAP is the first step in a long-term commitment and journey for the Council and the Derwent Valley Community.
We are working towards releasing a draft RAP for community consultation in the second half of 2024.
Other resources and useful links
Aboriginal Health Service: https://tacinc.com.au/services/health/ahs-nipaluna/
Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre: https://tacinc.com.au/
Karadi Aboriginal Corporation: http://www.karadi.org.au/
Leprena UAICC (Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress: https://www.facebook.com/leprenauaicctas/
Reconciliation Tasmania: About Us – Reconciliation Tasmania
Department of Education, The Orb: www.theorb.tas.gov.au
Uluru Statement from the Heart View The Statement