Council Programs and Support

Wollongong City Council is committed to reconciliation, and to celebrating and supporting local Aboriginal communities.

We do this in a number of ways.

Aboriginal Services staff member

Council has a dedicated Community Development Worker - Aboriginal Services, who plans and helps to develop programs and services for Wollongong's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

To get in touch with our Aboriginal Community Development Officer, please email or call (02) 4227 7111.

Aboriginal Reference Group

The Aboriginal Reference Group gives advice to Council about issues that affect local communities.

Aboriginal Engagement Framework

Council has developed an Aboriginal Engagement Framework PDF, 5255.53 KB to support our staff to engage with the Aboriginal community in a meaningful, respectful and culturally appropriate way.

You can also download an accessible Word version of the Aboriginal Engagement Framework DOCX, 46.05 KB.

Reconciliation Action Plan

We've developed a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) with our local communities. It explains our commitment and vision to create an inclusive and connected community where Aboriginal people feel a sense of pride and belonging.

Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan  PDF, 15556.97 KB

You can also download an accessible Word version of our RAP DOCX, 54.58 KB.

NAIDOC Week Grants

Council has a funding program to support not-for-profit groups organising events for NAIDOC Week. See our NAIDOC Week Grants page for details.

Lord Mayor's Reconciliation Morning Tea

An annual event for local Aboriginal Elders and community leaders.

Lord Mayor's Elders NAIDOC Luncheon

An opportunity for Aboriginal Elders to be acknowledged and celebrated.

Regional NAIDOC Awards Dinner

Council is a member of the organising committee of this celebration of the achievements of local Aboriginal Elders, Aboriginal community members and organisations in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven local government areas.

The 2023 awards will be hosted by Kiama Municipal Council on Saturday 29 July. Nominations are open until 30 June 2023. Visit Kiama Municipal Council's website to learn more or submit a nomination.

(Note: 'Aboriginal' includes Torres Strait Islander people).

Sandon Point Joint Management Agreement

Council and our Aboriginal community work together to protect and promote Aboriginal culture, heritage and connection to this significant Aboriginal site.

Welcome To and Acknowledgement of Country Protocol

This protocol was written for Council staff to make sure our events and ceremonies observe the appropriate protocols in recognising the Traditional Custodians of the Land. It can also be used as a reference by other groups or organisations who are organising public gatherings.

Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Protocol PDF, 262.84 KB

For more information about Council's programs and services for the Aboriginal community, please email or call Council’s Aboriginal Community Development Officer on (02) 4227 7111.