People
Part 1.5
Traditions
Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country protocols
A Welcome to Country is a cultural practice performed by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander custodian of the local region, welcoming visitors to their traditional land. This was traditionally performed to ensure visitors had a safe and protected journey during their time on that land.
A Welcome to Country can take place through many forms, including songs, dances, smoking ceremonies or speeches in traditional language or English.
A Welcome to Country is usually the first item of proceedings to open an event.
An Acknowledgement of Country is an opportunity to recognise that the gathering is on Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander land; pay respect to Traditional Custodians, particularly Elders past and present; and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in attendance.
An Acknowledgement of Country is usually delivered as part of the Welcome and Housekeeping at meetings and events. Anyone can deliver an Acknowledgement of Country. At meetings/events, this would generally be done by the Chair or Master of Ceremonies.
These practices are performed to show respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.