2027 Policy and Funding Guide

Acknowledgement of Country

From the heart:

We acknowledge the Aboriginal peoples as the First peoples of South Australia and as custodians of the lands, waters, skies and Communities where we live, learn and raise children. We recognise Aboriginal peoples as having the longest living Culture, raising children safe and strong in their identity, Community, Culture, and connection to Country.

We pay our deep respects to Elders past and present, and their role as the first knowledge-sharers for children. We follow in their footsteps. Aboriginal peoples, working with and for children, are central in shaping our work. Their wisdom, advice, and guidance enrich our practices, creating a more inclusive and Culturally safe environment for children and families.

We respect Aboriginal peoples’ ways of being, doing and wise practices guiding our continual learning. Together we walk and build stronger, more supportive communities for all children.

Terminology

In South Australia, we acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which the staff of the Government of South Australia works. We respect preference to use the term ‘Aboriginal peoples’ to acknowledge in written and spoken language both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We also acknowledge that Torres Strait Islanders may refer to themselves as Zenadth Kes, which is an amalgamation of Torres Strait language names for the 4 winds that pass through the region.

The terms ‘Culture’ and ‘Community’ are capitalised in this document when referring to Aboriginal peoples to respectfully acknowledge the deep spiritual, Cultural and social significance of Culture and Community. In doing so, we seek to emphasise the profound and holistic interconnectedness between Country, Culture and Community.