We believe in reconciliation with First Nations People
Newcastle Anglican acknowledges the traditional custodianship of the First Nations of the land on which the Diocese ministers—the Awabakal, Biripi, Darkinyung, Geawegal, Kamilaroi, Worimi, Garrigal and Wonnarua peoples—land that stretches from the Hawkesbury River to Lake Cathie, from the coast to beyond the Burning Mountain.
We are committed to the work of reconciliation and building strong relationships, respect and trust between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Newcastle Anglican supports a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous Voice to the Parliament.
We acknowledge and respect the historical and ongoing Aboriginal connection to country through cultural and spiritual sites, language, and ceremony.
Newcastle Anglican respects Indigenous land rights and traditional knowledge with regard to land management.
We welcome and affirms the journey towards a Makarrata and particularly the Uluru Statement from the Heart. We support the aspirations of Aboriginal people for a fair and truthful relationship with the people of Australia and a better future for their children based on justice and self-determination.
We will engage in meaningful, open and honest consultation and ensure conduct is respectful, patient and in good faith.
We will implement a Reconciliation Action plan which will include regular Acknowledgement of Country (and Welcome to Country where appropriate) as part of meetings and gatherings of our people, cultural awareness training, protections of cultural heritage sites and Aboriginal relationships; the celebration of events that are significant to Aboriginal people.
We seek to understand Aboriginal aspirations for this region and take a long-term view of our partnership with a view to achieving meaningful mutually beneficial outcomes.
Newcastle Anglican is committed to engaging in and maintaining positive, long term, trusting relationships with Aboriginal communities.