Welcome from Matilda House, a Ngambri Elder on whose land Reconciliation Australia is located
'As a proud Aboriginal woman of the Ngambri people, I'm pleased that you want to learn more about Indigenous people and culture which are so much a part of your culture as a fellow Australian.
This website will give you a glimpse of how life looks from our perspective. It offers a small insight into our culture and history, the problems we experience today, and the varied contribution our people have made and continue to make to the nation.
No one person or group can speak on behalf of all Indigenous people, that is why this website has stories, examples, pictures, accounts from a number of different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups.
Many Australians have never met an Indigenous person and haven’t had the opportunity to experience our culture firsthand. Then, when they do get the chance, people sometimes feel awkward asking questions directly – they may feel embarrassed or worry they'll say something wrong.
Getting the basics from this site should give you confidence to start developing two-way relationships and to an interest to continue your journey of learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Learning more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians will help you in many ways, professionally and also personally.
- You'll have a greater ability to build shared pride in Indigenous culture and history
- You'll have a better understanding for Indigenous customers and colleagues
- You'll understand how your services and products can better meet people's needs
- You'll be more aware of how to attract and retain Indigenous staff
Your knowledge and understanding will make you and your organisation part of the national effort to close the 17-year life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children in Australia.
I wish you well in your journey of learning and discovery.'
Matilda House
Next