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 domainCelebrating 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 2016Building new infrastructure
Creating a local Aboriginal knowledge and culture centre in RedfernWorking with community to share First Nations cultures.Completed · 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
In pictures: Redfern Community Centre turns 20 Locals and former employees share their fondest memories. Warning: this article contains images of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.16 April 2024News
Our 12 picks from Sydney Writers' FestivalDiverse storytellers gather 20-26 May. Here are some talks, workshops and readings to take you away.16 April 2024News
What to do in Sydney this JanuaryHonour the survival of the world's oldest living cultures, immerse yourself in art & make the most of school holidays. Here are 10 things to enjoy this month.21 December 2023News
A Torres Strait Islander Elder shares her storyLanguage, dance and legacy: Joyce Wymarra’s journey from Badu to Glebe.18 December 2023News
We Are Warriors showcases First Nations excellence at New Year’s EveThe artists and musicians behind the Calling Country fireworks and performances honouring the world’s oldest living culture.15 December 2023News
We keep the ball in motionYoung Redfern All Blacks players, Jonathan Silva and Shyla Miller-Mundine, on championing togetherness in Australia's oldest Aboriginal rugby league club.25 October 2023News
Reminder: Vote in the referendum this SaturdayAll the details you need before you vote on the Voice to Parliament on Saturday 14 October.8 October 2023News
Top 9: Your questions about the Voice to Parliament answeredAnswers from experts about the upcoming referendum29 September 2023News
Sydney on the move for YesThousands of people marched in support of the Voice to Parliament19 September 2023News
Join a free workshop to better understand the Voice to ParliamentAn interactive session led by Nicole Laupepa and Jacqui Parker to help you take meaningful action towards reconciliation.8 September 2023
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.