DFAT acknowledges Australia’s First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognise the ongoing custodianship of land, sea and sky and the perpetual spiritual connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples hold with Country. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to First Nations peoples throughout Australia. We acknowledge the significant contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have made and continue to make to our nation.
DFAT’s First Nations public diplomacy efforts provide an international platform to share Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, expertise and innovation with international audiences. Through initiatives that enable meaningful participation, exchange and collaboration, we connect Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and communities, fostering greater understanding and trust, and strengthening our reputation as a modern, inclusive nation.
First Nations public diplomacy is an opportunity for Australia to present a more authentic and compelling story of Australia - one that showcases the cultures, languages , science, business and entrepreneurship, and governance expertise of First Nations Australians.
DFAT does this through a range of public diplomacy activities and initiatives such as international exchange and visitor programs, collaborations, exhibitions, tours and speaker engagements in partnership with key institutions and organisations.
First Nations public diplomacy:
- Promotes the expertise, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with a focus on international partnerships and exchange.
- Supports major events such as NAIDOC Week in Australia and overseas.
- Partners with key institutions in the promotion of Australian Indigenous cultures internationally, across all sectors including media, the arts, business, science and more
- Supports speaking engagements, tours, workshops, performances and exhibitions to connect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the world.