Celebrating the many who have driven and led change in our communities over generations—the heroes and champions of change, of equal rights and even basic human rights.

NAIDOC Week - established in 1938 - is the opportunity to proudly acknowledge and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The week is celebrated not just in Aboriginal communities but also in our broader community including government and non-government agencies, emergency services, schools, universities, and local organisations.

Through the Inquiry into the 2019-20 Victorian Fire Season, IGEM acknowledges the needs and values of Aboriginal Victorians have been poorly recognised or understood by the government during past emergencies. Aboriginal Victorians have lived through generations of disconnection, discrimination and trauma which has influenced their concepts of culture and healing – and their experiences during emergencies.

IGEM also recognises the perspectives of Aboriginal Victorians offer insights into ways in which emergency management arrangements need to embrace a wider range of traditions, cultures, values and needs.

Through NAIDOC week, people of all ages and backgrounds can discover more about the oldest living continuing culture on the planet.

For information on NAIDOC Week and to find out more about NAIDOC activities in your local community visit naidoc.org.au