Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols

City of Sydney Council's guide to the history, customs and ceremonies of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Working across cultures is not always easy and often requires considerable patience, understanding and commitment by both parties.

This document was developed by City of Sydney Council with the aim of providing its staff with an understanding of some of the important protocols when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Some of the specific areas covered include:

• Cultural protocols, i.e. the customs, lores and codes of behaviour of a particular cultural group.
• Description of Aboriginality.
• A brief history of indigenous groups local to Sydney.
• Respecting traditional custodians and elders.
• Significant ceremonies, including 'Welcome to Country', 'Acknowledgement of Country', 'Smoking Ceremony and Fee for Service.
• Significant dates including Survival Day, Harmony Day, National Sorry Day, NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week.
• Indigenous flags, protocols and when to fly particular flags.
• Culture and heritage issues including media, publications, art and signage, copyright and intellectual property, stereotyping and naming of the deceased.
• Governance issues including community consultations, Aboriginal interagency and special project committee.

Follow this link to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols (opens in new browser window)

For further information

Contact	:	City of Sydney Council: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Development Officer
Address	:	456 Kent Street or GPO Box 1591, Sydney NSW 2001
Phone	:	02 9288 5348
Email	:	kmundine@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au