Reconciliation
We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation as the traditional custodians of this place we now call Sydney.
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 our communities to share First Nations cultures.Planned · 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 12 November 2012Policies
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 13 May 2019
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
5 things you should know about Yabun FestivalA look back on the evolution of Yabun Festival.19 January 2023News
Cash grants boosting local initiativesWe’re giving more than $2 million in grants to fund projects that make Sydney a great place to live, work and visit.29 November 2022News
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander business to bring Sydney’s newest public plaza to life Bring cultural, creative or retail ideas to life with the help of an accommodation grant17 November 2022News
Reflecting on our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory PanelAs we call for nominations for the next panel, members share their experiences.8 November 2022News
Amplify change: Trading Blak on how your everyday purchases can make a huge differenceFemale-led First Nations businesses are building stronger communities and teaching the next generation.31 October 2022News
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel: Open for nominationsYou must live, work or study in the City of Sydney area to be eligible to nominate.25 October 2022News
Support Indigenous Business MonthFrom cafes to graphic designers, horticulturalists to workwear, we're highlighting some brilliant Indigenous businesses to check out.11 October 2022News
Sydney Peace Prize: Hear from 3 key architects of the Uluru Statement from the HeartProfessor Megan Davis presents the keynote address followed by Alyawarre woman Pat Anderson AO and Guugu Yimidhirr man Noel Pearson in conversation.4 October 2022News
Learn about Sydney’s Aboriginal history as you walk Country Markers highlight significant people and places along the harbour foreshore.26 September 2022News
Help bring Aboriginal stories to life on the harbour Be part of Yananurala, a new walk that celebrates connection to Country through art and installations26 September 2022
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.
