Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people

Dawn Reflection - Annabel Osborne Photography
The Gamay Dancers at Waverley Council's Dawn Reflection 2024

Waverley Council acknowledges the Bidiagal, Birrabirragal and Gadigal people, who traditionally occupied the Sydney Coast. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Council continues to respect, acknowledge and protect the continuous living culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and work towards reconciliation through the adoption of Plans and policies, working with our Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Committee, and maintaining strong relationships with the Traditional Custodians of the Waverley area.

Council’s vision for reconciliation is a community where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are recognised and valued as Australia’s first people. Council supports the right of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to determine their own future and recognise their right to live according to their own values and customs. Council commits to respecting the sacred sites and knowledge of local Traditional Custodians.

Key partnerships and initiatives

Council builds on and strengthens respectful and mutually beneficial working relationships between Council and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, peak bodies and organisations.

Some of the partners we work with include:

Council also participates in the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Program, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through the creation of employment opportunities and education pathways.