snaicc news Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care

www.snaicc.org.au AUGUST 2012

National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day turns 25 Photo courtesy of KooriPhoto Mail newspaper

See pages 10 and 11

SNAICC in running for governance award SNAICC is among eight of ’s The eight finalists were selected by an “In the past 12 months, many of our top Aboriginal and Torres Strait independent judging panel chaired by national executive members and some Islander organisations named as Professor Mick Dodson, who said the staff have undertaken additional finalists in the prestigious Indigenous standard of applications had been high. governance training conducted by a Governance Awards (IGAs) for 2012. “Indigenous governance is really legal firm. Created in 2005, the IGAs are held every improving and our finalists represent “We would also like to acknowledge the two years by Reconciliation Australia in the best of what is happening in federal Department of Families, Housing, partnership with BHP Billiton to identify, Indigenous communities,” Professor Community Services and Indigenous celebrate and promote strong leadership Dodson said. Affairs for including a governance and effective governance. “They are true success stories, achieving component as part of its core funding to The 2012 IGAs attracted over 100 clear results in what are largely very SNAICC.” applications from Aboriginal and Torres challenging environments.” Reconciliation Australia said while the Strait Islander owned organisations and SNAICC Chairperson Dawn Wallam said: 2012 finalists represented a diverse projects — a record-breaking figure and “SNAICC is proud and delighted that the range of services, each had been more than triple the number from 2010. judging panel consider us among the developed from the ground up and The awards are divided into two top Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander were genuinely owned and driven by categories. SNAICC is one of five organisations on governance issues. the communities and members they represent. finalists in Category A, “for outstanding “SNAICC has worked hard, and continues examples of Indigenous governance in to work hard, on improving governance The winners will be announced at an Indigenous incorporated organisations”. procedures and protocols in the agency. awards ceremony at BHP Billiton in Melbourne on 12 October. The national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families Doctrine of Discovery. The doctrine well, Indigenous persons shed light on can be traced to a papal bull (edict) in prevailing and pervasive injustice and 1452, which in effect legitimized the racism. European colonialisation of any (then) The report of the Eleventh Session of non-Christian peoples — ignoring and the UNPFII is available on the SNAICC invalidating the rights of Indigenous website (see also article on page 7). peoples to the culture, history and wealth of their societies and their In Geneva for CRC connections (ownership) of their lands. Following the UNPFII, Geraldine and I f r a n k ly Over the last 550 years, Indigenous attended the Convention on the Rights peoples have continued to struggle to of the Child (CRC) hearings in Geneva. s p e a k i n g regain what was taken. The colonisers The convention is concerned with the meanwhile have continued to take ever rights and wellbeing of all children. The Hello everyone and welcome to the more, while making some generally mild CRC committee reviews the progress of August 2012 edition of SNAICC News. and rhetorical gestures to reverse these each country that is a signatory to the Since I last wrote in May, SNAICC trends, not least in Australia. In 1823, CRC about every four years; this year was took part in two extremely important the Doctrine of Discovery was written Australia’s turn. The atmosphere was international human rights forums. into United States law in a Supreme very different to New York — a smaller Court case as a way to deny land rights gathering, it was easier to navigate. SNAICC Deputy Chairperson Geraldine to Native Americans. In Australia, native Atkinson, Emma Sydenham (Manager SNAICC has been involved over the last title law seems, more often than not, Policy and Research), Melissa Brickell 18 months with the NGO delegation to work against Indigenous peoples (Manager Resources) and I attended from Australia and a number of things regaining access to and control of their the annual United Nations Permanent advocated for by SNAICC, and solidly land. Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) supported by the non-Indigenous NGOs, in New York in May. Approximately 600 For about six hours a day for eight days, were taken up in the report by the CRC Indigenous delegates were present, participants read statements about the committee to the representing a number of First Nations impact of colonisation. The majority (see pages 8 and 9). peoples around the world. of speakers were Indigenous, with a The trip was also a valuable learning few government spokespersons. While The UNPFII theme this year was experience: we learnt the work that governments mostly claimed that all was based on the enduring impact of the happens in the preceding 24 months — when committee members visit Australia to speak to community groups — is more In this issue... important than the work that is done when we get to the meetings. Page National children’s day BBF program changes must be based This year’s Aboriginal and Islander on genuine consultations 3 Children’s Day (NAICD) on 4 August Bubup Wilam children’s centre opens in Melbourne 4 celebrated a major milestone — it was Queensland holds inquiry into child protection system 5 the 25th since the day began in 1988. NT foster and kinship carers get an increase in payments 6 Over the years, NAICD has helped to remind people and governments that SNAICC attends UN Indigenous forum in New York 7 children remain the most vulnerable UN committee in Geneva highlights Australia’s failures group in society. As well as being on children’s rights 8–9 a celebration, the day is an annual National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day 2012 10–11 opportunity to reflect on the issues faced Cultural tuition at the centre of care 12–13 by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander A day in the life of the Tasmanian Aboriginal children that are hindering their Child Care Agency 14 development, wellbeing and protection. This is a cliche, but children today are Black Fella White Fella children’s book launched 15 adults tomorrow. 2013 SNAICC National Conference: planning well under way 16 If we want a healthy, intellectually SNAICC launches new resource on healing practices 17 capable and compassionate society, Warning: Aboriginal and New resources for Aboriginal parents in WA 18 we need to give our kids the skills to Torres Strait Islander Growing up our way matrix now available in hard copy 18 have intellectual capacity and to be people should be aware that this publication may Cultural competence workshops proving a hit 19 compassionate. I don’t want to live in a contain images of people society that is neither of those things. who may have since passed Lyn and Ben Lawrie’s family story one of many featured in away. book celebrating 25 years of children’s day 20 Frank Hytten, SNAICC CEO [email protected]

2 snaicc news August 2012 BBF program changes must be based on genuine consultations

SNAICC has cautiously welcomed the Australian Government’s review of the Budget Based Funding (BBF) Program, under which many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood services are funded. SNAICC Deputy Chairperson (Early Childhood), Geraldine Atkinson, said SNAICC had long advocated for changes to the BBF program to enable better delivery of services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and Geraldine Atkinson families. Ms Atkinson said SNAICC saw the review “Access to affordable services is vitally as an important opportunity to improve important to the wellbeing and future support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait “We expect the evidence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Islander services and remove some of that emerges from a children, families and communities in the factors inhibiting their capacity to rural and remote areas,” Ms Atkinson deliver programs. genuine consultation said. These issues include heavy admini- process will demonstrate She said the success of the review would strative and reporting workloads, the real need for further hinge on the consultation process. inadequate funding and a single-year operational funding. BBF funding model that creates uncertainty “We call on the Government to ensure its and prevents long-term planning. services should not be consultations — with families, services and communities — are culturally Under-funded services expected to operate for far less than other services.” appropriate, genuine and will enable “Our services have been significantly meaningful discussions. under-funded for the past 20 years, despite a growing demand and the “This requires significant notice to fact they provide holistic, affordable “Our services, including the people to participate, requires time to and flexible programs that meet the Multifunctional Aboriginal Children’s sit and yarn with people on the issues, needs of parents, and the cultural Services — or MACS — are very distinct and requires openness about what the and educational needs of our children from mainstream services. They serve all solutions may be.” at the most crucial stage of their the children in the community, not just Simple principles development,” Ms Atkinson said. those who walk through the door. Ms Atkinson said the Australian Human “We expect the evidence that emerges “They are community hubs, providing Rights Commission has developed clear from a genuine consultation process will a range of services including outreach and simple principles for consultation demonstrate the real need for further to families in need of but not accessing with Aboriginal and Torres Strait operational funding. BBF services should support, and a link for Aboriginal and Islander people and called on the not be expected to operate for far less Torres Strait Islander kids between Government to use these principles to than other services.” home, community life and school. conduct its review. However, Ms Atkinson said SNAICC was “The child, family, culture and She urged everyone to get involved in concerned the Government’s discussion community are central in the MACS the consultation process — Aboriginal paper was not opening any scope for model.” and Torres Strait Islander parents, increased funding to the BBF program services, peak bodies and community Ms Atkinson said SNAICC was pleased — a critical issue currently forcing many organisations. the Government recognised the services to become mono-functional. importance of reviewing how the BBF “This review has potential to strengthen She said it was crucial the review took program can “better be targeted to support for our children and enable us into account the various important support access to ECEC (early childhood, as services to ensure strong develop- roles that these services play in the education and care) services where ment and learning outcomes are community beyond childcare. market failures would otherwise exist”. achieved.”

snaicc news August 2012 3 New children’s centre opens in northern Melbourne

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander “We challenged every step of the way children and families living in and had a say on every aspect of the Melbourne’s northern suburbs now build, even if it was not wanted. But have access to a magnificent new look at the result.” children and family centre. She said Bubup Wilam’s elected board, Top left and main photo: Children play at the Bubup Wilam for Early Learning Abori- comprising nine Aboriginal members, official opening of Bubup Wilam Aboriginal ginal Children and Family Centre, which had based their philosophy on Multi- Children and Family Centre. Above: Centre Director, Alister Thorpe. has been operating since February 2012, functional Aboriginal Children’s was officially opened on 22 June in Services, which have operated across Bubup Wilam number five Thomastown. the country for the past 30 years. of 38 new centres Bubup Wilam means “children’s place” That philosophy was to instill and in the Woi Wurrung language. The strengthen “children’s strong sense of Bubup Wilam is one of five Abori- centre provides an educational and Aboriginal identity and personal self- ginal and Torres Strait Islander care program for babies, toddlers and esteem as their foundation for lifelong children and family centres to preschool children up to six years of learning, health and wellbeing”. open so far across Australia age. Sixty children from 43 Aboriginal under a program funded by the Alister Thorpe, the centre’s director, families already attend the centre. federal Department of Education, said Bubup Wilam aims to provide “a Employment and Workplace Wurundjeri Elder, Aunty Di Kerr, thriving Aboriginal family-based early Relations (DEEWR), and state- performed a Welcome to Country and learning centre that creates strong territory governments. smoking ceremony at the official foundations through learning, health The other four centres are located opening. and wellbeing.” at Canberra, Halls Creek (WA), The Chairperson of Bubup Wilam, Lisa “The children will have a chance to Mareeba (Qld) and Bridgewater Thorpe, told guests the quest for a explore their heritage, make new (Tasmania). family centre in Melbourne’s north was friends, and get active through art and In all, 38 centres will be established driven by local Aboriginal community play,” Alister said. by 2014 under the DEEWR program members and organisations in 2007. Guests at the official opening included — 23 centres in regional and remote Lisa said the working group created Harry Jenkins, the Federal Member for areas and 15 in urban locations. with the City of Whittlesea — which was Scullin, and local Elders. SNAICC has recently produced a funded by the Australian Government Staff set up activities for children and resource to support information in 2009 to establish an Aboriginal child families on the day, including farm sharing on the set-up and objectives and family centre — was very strong animals, face painting, a science of the centres. in how it wanted to see the facility corner, bark painting and ochre The booklet also aims to increase developed. painting. Entertainment was provided awareness of the support they “The site had to be near public by local community artists Amos Roach require to provide quality and transport, shops and medical services. (teaching traditional dances) and accessible services to Indigenous We did not want to be placed on the renowned musicians Kutcha Edwards children and families. back blocks,” Lisa said. and Dave Arden. For a copy of the resource, contact SNAICC or go to www.snaicc.org.au

4 snaicc news August 2012 Queensland holds inquiry into state’s child protection system

An independent Commission of Inquiry established by the Queensland Government has begun a review of the state’s child protection system. Premier Campbell Newman said the inquiry, set up on 1 July, will examine the current response to children and families in the child protection system, including service standards and court and tribunal processes. “Improving the safety of Queensland’s children is a priority and the Govern- ment will do whatever it takes to ensure Above: CEO of QATSICPP, Natalie Lewis (right) they are safe,” Mr Newman said. present over-reliance on the statutory pictured with Karen Salam (QATSICPP) system to deal with child protection and Lucas Moore (CREATE). The inquiry is reviewing the progress issues, specifically those which are of recommendations made in the 1999 predominantly derived from significant Natalie said QATSICPP would look to the Commission of Inquiry into Abuse of social disadvantage. experiences and learnings of NSW, as Children in Queensland Institutions well as internationally, in the process “We are committed to actively partici- and the 2004 Crime and Misconduct of transitioning delegations for out- pating with the inquiry to advocate for Commission of Inquiry, Protecting our of-home care to the non-government system reform that provides more Children: An Inquiry into the Abuse of sector to inform submissions to the support for our children and families Children in Foster Care. inquiry. before the statutory involvement of child The commission has been directed to protection authorities,” Natalie said. In a far-reaching reform, in January deliver recommendations on: 2012 NSW began the transfer of out-of- “There needs to be a greater focus on • reforms to ensure that Queensland’s home care service provision to non- early intervention and prevention child protection system achieves the government service providers. The aim measures and improving our families’ best possible outcomes to protect is to place all Indigenous children in access to community based support children and support families out-of-home care with an Aboriginal services. • strategies to reduce the over- agency by 2022. “At present, those services are largely representation of Aboriginal and A QATSICPP report in September 2011 offered only once the child has come Torres Strait Islander children at all (titled Losing Ground) found that into contact with the child protection stages of the child protection system, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander system.” particularly out-of-home care children accounted for 36.7 per cent • any legislative reforms required, and Natalie said QATSICPP had already met of all children in protective care in • any reforms to improve the current with Commissioner Carmody, “who was Queensland, with the figure likely to oversight, monitoring and complaints receptive to engaging QATSICPP and rise to 50 per cent by 2015 at the current mechanisms for the child protection our member organisations in seeking rate of increase. solutions to the problems inherent in the system. The Queensland inquiry began its first system.” The Honourable Tim Carmody SC heads round of hearings in August in Brisbane the inquiry as Commissioner. She said the inquiry would “provide the with regional and remote hearings to opportunity to showcase good practice follow. Mr Carmody was a judge of the Family and good outcomes” being achieved Court of Australia from 2003 to 2008, Commissioner Carmody is required in the community-controlled child and Queensland Crime Commissioner to provide a detailed report to the protection sector. from 1998 to 2002. Queensland Premier by 30 April 2013. “It also throws the spotlight on the poor CEO of the Queensland Aboriginal and The Commission of Inquiry website is rate of compliance with the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Child Protection www.childprotectioninquiry.qld.gov.au Child Placement Principle and affords an Peak body (QATSICPP), Natalie Lewis, opportunity to promote solutions and To read the Losing Ground report and for said she was “optimistic” about the innovative strategies to improve this.” more information on QATSICPP go to: inquiry and its potential to reduce the www.qatsicpp.com.au

snaicc news August 2012 5 Foster and kinship carer payments rise in the NT

Payments to foster and kinship carers in the have increased, as part of the major reforms to the territory’s child protection system. “The commitment of Territory foster and kinship carers ensures that children in alternative care have the love, care and support that they need,” NT Children and Families Minister Kon Vatskalis said when announcing the rise in July. Governments “The Board of Inquiry report Growing them strong…together recognised the commit to funding importance of valuing Territory foster and kinship carers. homelands “This increase in carer payments is one way that the government can acknowledge SNAICC welcomes the Australian and the dedication of territory foster and kinship carers while providing the necessary Northern Territory governments’ support to ensure carers can provide the best possible care for vulnerable Territory decision to invest $300 million in the children.” territory’s Aboriginal homelands over Mr Vatskalis said the new rates paid to carers will see the standard carer payment the next 10 years. increase from between $168 and $248 per week to between $210 and $329 a week Australian Government funding of depending on the age and needs of the child. $225 million, mainly for municipal and Carers who choose to take on the responsibility of looking after a child with essential services, was announced by complex needs will receive an additional payment as will carers in remote areas and Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister respite carers. Jenny Macklin in March 2013. The department will also provide foster and kinship carers with an additional $200 The NT Government will also support at the commencement of a placement to assist carers meet the immediate needs of employment, housing, infrastructure, the child. schooling and transport services on the remote homelands, where small Foster Care NT has welcomed the increase in payments, describing it as “highly populations of Aboriginal people live on overdue”. The agency’s manager, Ann Owen, said the rise brought the NT closer traditional country. into line with other jurisdictions —”but we will petition for yet further increases to secure a better lifestyle for children and their carers”. Under the new policy commencing on 1 July 2013, residents will work in “The rise means carer payments have become more realistic in terms of what it costs consultation with the NT Government to to raise a child in the NT,” Ms Owen told SNAICC News. decide where funds are allocated within A comprehensive review into the child protection system — co-chaired by Howard their own homeland region. Bath and SNAICC National Executive member Muriel Bamblett — was carried out in SNAICC welcomes and supports the 2010, with the NT Government accepting all the recommendations. governments’ decision to ensure the “The Board of Inquiry made 147 recommendations and called for wide-sweeping future of homeland communities — and systemic and cultural change to child protection services,” Mr Vatskalis said. to recognise the basic right of Aboriginal “The Northern Territory Government acted immediately...including injecting an people to live on their traditional lands. additional $130 million into the system and establishing a stand-alone agency — “This funding announcement is great the Department of Children and Families — to oversee and implement the reforms.” news,” SNAICC CEO Frank Hytten said. The NT peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, “The evidence strongly indicates the SAF,T (Stronger Aboriginal Families, Together) has pointed to an alarmingly high health of Aboriginal people living on contact of Indigenous children with the child protection system in the territory. homelands is better than of those living in larger communities off country.” Writing in SNAICC News in May, SAF,T CEO Jodie Crawshaw observed: “Aboriginal children in the NT make up more than 80 per cent of out-of-home care placements. “The health and other benefits of people Two thirds of our Aboriginal children in out-of-home care are placed with non- living on and caring for country, raising Aboriginal carers, and only a third of them have Cultural Care Plans. children strong in culture and having a say in government funding and economic “This means the majority of them have little or no links to culture, community, development provide a solid basis for country or family... stable community life.” “There is a clear need to ensure that significant resources are invested to address Although accurate figures are hard the number of children without care plans and Cultural Care Plans. We must have to establish, of the estimated 10,000 bipartisan support to ensure the maintenance of family links occurs in every place- Aboriginal people living across 500 ment of an Aboriginal child or young person in out-of-home care for six months or homelands in the Northern Territory, 30 longer.” per cent are under the age of 15. 6 snaicc news August 2012 SNAICC in the Big Apple... on UN business

Main photo: An Indigenous representative addresses delegates at the Permanent Forum in the UN General SNAICC participated, as part of an Assembly. Above left: Australian delegation, in the Eleventh SNAICC officer Melissa Brickell and SNAICC Session of the United Nations Perma- Deputy Chairperson nent Forum on Indigenous Issues held Geraldine Atkinson were in New York from 7 to 18 May 2012. part of the Australian delegation at the forum. SNAICC’s primary interest in the forum was to increase the visibility of issues facing Indigenous children and youth, and seek specific recommendations to help promote and protect the human rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and youth in Australia. SNAICC was also keen to expand its network of advocates for the rights What is the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues? of Indigenous children and youth The UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), established in around the world. In 2001, its first July 2000, is an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council. The forum year of operation, the permanent has a mandate to discuss Indigenous issues related to economic and social forum committed to ensure Indigenous development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights. children and youth remain an ongoing The UNPFII is made up of 16 members acting in an individual capacity as focal point of its work. independent experts on Indigenous issues. The sessions are open to While the focus has varied over the delegates from Indigenous organisations and NGOs working on Indigenous years, the annual forum has made a issues. valuable contribution in providing a The UNPFII holds a two-week session once a year. space for dialogue on critical issues impacting children, as well as providing in which the Doctrine of Discovery SNAICC took the lead on a statement an opportunity to work with relevant has been institutionalised in law and on children and youth, with two UN agencies, including UNICEF, to policy, and continues to contribute to recommendations included in the final strengthen their efforts to promote the violations of the rights of Indigenous report. rights of Indigenous children. peoples and the cycle of domination, One focused on encouragement of dispossession and impoverishment. The central theme for discussion this state ratification of the Third Optional year was the Doctrine of Discovery — This forum also set aside time to Protocol to the UN Convention on the and the enduring impact of colonisation consider a number of other issues Rights of the Child, which provides a on Indigenous peoples and the right to affecting Indigenous peoples, including complaints mechanism for violations of redress for past conquests. violence against women and girls, the rights of children. the rights of Indigenous peoples The doctrine can be traced to a papal bull The second concerned an invitation to to food and food sovereignty, and in 1452 which endorsed the conquests the Chairperson of the Committee on implementation of the Declaration. by explorers of non-Christian lands. the Rights of the Child to attend the In New York, the doctrine was explored The Australian Indigenous Peoples Permanent Forum annually to engage as an international legal construct Organisation (IPO) network coordinated in dialogue on how the Committee can through the lens of the United Nations efforts of the Aboriginal and Torres strengthen its protection and promotion Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Strait Islander delegation, with of Indigenous children’s rights. Australian delegates making more than Peoples. For more information on SNAICC’s 20 statements to the Permanent Forum involvement with the permanent forum, Participants canvassed diverse ways on issues across the agenda items. go to www.snaicc.asn.au snaicc news August 2012 7 UN report highlights Australia’s failures on children’s rights

The Committee on the Rights of the Child reviewed Australia’s implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in Geneva, Switzerland, on 4 and 5 June 2012. SNAICC was present in Geneva for the review, having been a part of an NGO collective engaged with this Committee over the past couple of years to prepare for this hearing. Positive discussions took place at the hearing between the committee and members of the Australian Government, and more informally with NGOs. SNAICC highlighted to both the government and the UN committee persistent human rights issues impacting Aboriginal and The committee also expressed deep (c) ensure the effective and meaningful Torres Strait Islander children and the concern about overrepresentation of participation of Aboriginal and need for change. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander persons in the The UN committee’s report released children in the out-of-home care and policy formulation, decision-making in June 2012 provided comprehensive criminal justice systems, inadequate and implementation processes of recommendations to the Australian standards of living, higher suicide programs affecting them. Government on a number of serious deaths, homelessness, high levels of The committee provided its human rights issues requiring redress. family violence and continued difficulties recommendations on issues across the in birth registration, among other issues. They highlight in particular Australia’s spectrum of human rights, including failure to take on board many of its prior Committee’s recommendations health, education, disability, leisure, protection and identity. Most specific concerns, and the gap in institutional In its recommendations to the Australian to areas within SNAICC’s mandate, we protection of children’s rights in Government, the UN committee focused highlight the following issues. Australia, including in particular for significantly on a gap in participation Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and decision-making by Aboriginal and Children in out-of-home care children. Torres Strait Islander peoples for issues The committee drew attention to the There remains, for example, no national impacting their children as well as in high number of Aboriginal and Torres child rights act or national plan of Aboriginal representation in children’s Strait Islander children being placed action. The committee expressed some rights monitoring mechanisms. into care separated from their homes dismay and surprise at the disparity To remedy this, it suggested the and communities. It challenged the in the enjoyment of human rights Australian Government: government to redress the inadequacies occurring in the current out-of-home between most children in Australia and (a) appoint a Deputy Commissioner for care system. These included: some particular disadvantaged groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander including Aboriginal and Torres Strait children’s issues at the national and- • an absence of national data Islander children. Given the wealth of or state-territory levels documenting the criteria and Australia, the committee could not see decisions leading to child placement how this was necessary or even possible! (b) establish and resource an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Steering • inappropriate placements, including In particular, the committee highlighted Group to inform the development, placing Aboriginal and Torres Strait the continued serious and widespread planning, implementation and Islander children outside their discrimination against Aboriginal review of each “Closing the Gap” communities and Torres Strait Islander children target in the specific context of • inadequate screening, training, in accessing health, education and child development, well-being and support and assessment of carers, and housing services. protection, and • a shortage of care options. 8 snaicc news August 2012 In looking at longer term solutions, be provided within the “Closing the Australian Government the committee emphasised the need Gap” initiative to ensure that individual needs to do more for prioritisation in early intervention Aboriginal education strategies are approaches, to provide support to based on previous policy successes and The Committee on the Rights of the families in situations of heightened undertaken with a long-term approach of Child was very clear that Australia’s vulnerability and prevent or mitigate collaboration. human rights obligations require abuse and neglect of children. far more from the Australian Health Government. At the heart of what A national review of best practices in This was a major issue of concern to the the committee felt was required policy and programs for positive committee. It urged the government included: reunification of children with their to undertake all necessary measures to families was raised as an important • meaningful participation of ensure that all children enjoy the same step. On this issue, the committee noted Aboriginal and Torres Strait access to quality health services, with the disturbing consequences of children Islander communities in special attention to Indigenous children with imprisoned parents, often placed decisions impacting their and children living in remote areas. in ad-hoc and insecure alternative care children that is not culturally appropriate and The committee recognised that the root • clear positions of Aboriginal and with low rates of family reunification. causes of health problems in Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander leadership and Torres Strait Islander communities at both state and national level Stronger Futures legislation need to be addressed to achieve change empowered to make decisions on The committee called for a different in health outcomes. It called for policies and programs designed approach to the punitive nature of the action to change the socio-economic for children Northern Territory Emergency Response disadvantages communities experience. Act (2007), which has been continued • funding, staff and technical Once again, the committee focused on by the Stronger Futures bills — since expertise to support community measures that would support parents passed by Federal Parliament in June based programs, and to care for their own children and 2012. • long-term national strategies the expansion of community-based that respond to the causes It specifically mentioned the student programs, recognising that parents and of disadvantage and build on enrolment and attendance measure communities are best placed to respond evidence of what works. which allows for punitive reductions to issues. Government’s role is to ensure to welfare payments for parents whose the professional support and resources to The committee expressed frustration children don’t attend school. It called enable this to happen. at a number of points with Australia’s for measures that are proportionate and Where to now? failure to implement the Committee’s that do not discriminate in form or in prior recommendations, repeating calls practice. The review is one step in a long-term for action. ongoing process of holding the Australian Culture Government accountable for the legal This included a call for government The committee urged the government obligations that it has to respect, measures to fully implement the to review its progress in the implement- protect and fulfill the human rights of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ation of the recommendations of children, including Aboriginal and Torres Child Placement Principle and intensify the 1997 Bringing them home report to Strait Islander children. its cooperation with Indigenous ensure full respect for the rights of SNAICC is keen to start discussions communities and leaders to find suitable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with the Australian community on how solutions for Indigenous children children to their identity, name, culture, we can progress the UN committee in need of alternative care within language and family relationships. Indigenous families. recommendations to see improved Homelessness protection of rights for Aboriginal and This has been a message constantly Torres Strait Islander children. repeated by SNAICC over the years. A review of efforts to address homeless- SNAICC strongly agrees with the ness of children and young people was SNAICC has prepared a resource on committee in highlighting the need to suggested by the committee, which children’s rights for Aboriginal and Torres work together to develop solutions that should inform specific strategies Strait Islander services — including early respond to local needs — and trusts the for children, including specifically childhood, youth, family support and government will take on board these Aboriginal children, and children in health. regional and remote communities. strong messages. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The committee felt that more could be Education Child Rights Report Card focuses on the done to improve the situation of The committee called on the Australian committee’s recommendations and children in alternative care placements. Government to protect and promote proposes some ideas for how services can It referred to clear action to improve the bilingual models of education, both at take up the child rights framework. national and state level. It suggested quality of service provision, as well as The report card is available at that coordination and monitoring of access to health care and education for www.snaicc.org.au; for more information state and territory governments should children in care. contact [email protected] snaicc news August 2012 9 Below: children from Bubup Wilam children’s centre at the national NAICD launch in Melbourne. The launch featured National Aboriginal and didgeridoo playing by Yorta Yorta man Troy Kuhl (bottom pic) and traditional dancing by the Kinneman Dancing Spirits Islander Children’s Day Troupe. Main photo: the troupe’s youngest member, Waru Roach.

2012 The 25th anniversary of National In Perth, the Department for Child Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Protection held an art competition Day (NAICD) on 4 August was marked open to all children in care in WA; while by many and varied celebrations at Mt Druitt in NSW, the Yenu Allowah throughout Australia and SNAICC’s Aboriginal Child and Family Centre held national launch in Melbourne. a photo exhibition highlighting the NAICD has been held since 1988 to importance of culture and community in honour and celebrate the importance raising strong, proud children. of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The national launch of NAICD was held children within family and community; at the recently-opened Bubup Wilam and to raise awareness of the issues Aboriginal Children and Family Early that impact on their lives. Learning centre at Thomastown. Local events across the country SNAICC Chairperson Dawn Wallam said A karate demonstration was part of the SAF,T family day included a family day at the Aborigines the 25-year milestone was an apt time activities at Jingili Water Gardens in Darwin. Advancement League in Melbourne, to reflect on progress in the lives of organised by the Victorian Aboriginal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Care Agency and a similar event at children. Parramatta Park in Sydney held by the Ms Wallam said while there had been NSW peak body AbSec. some improvements, our children In Darwin, the NT peak body SAF,T and young people remained the most (Stronger Aboriginal Families, disadvantaged Australians. Together) organised, with a number of She said international criticism of agencies, a family day at Jingili Water Australia’s efforts to protect the rights AbSec CEO Bill Pritchard with Sharon Brown (carer, Gardens which included a sausage of children should be a rallying call left), and Maree Walk (Chief Executive, Dept of Family and Community Services) at AbSec’s family fun day at sizzle, basket weaving, jumping castles for governments to act urgently and and free health checks. Parramatta Park. The Raising Them Strong Resources for decisively. Aboriginal Kinship Carers was launched on the day.

10 snaicc news August 2012 Above: Nardi Simpson with Dulwich Hill Primary School singers at AbSec’s family day at Parramatta, which included face painting (below left) among the many activities. AbSec photos on these pages courtesy of Tjarani Barton-Vaofanua.

In Townsville, Nudgee College’s first XV rugby team played in jerseys specially designed for NAICD. Photo courtesy of National Indigenous Times newspaper.

Left: (from left to Below: Fruit was on the menu in Brisbane at an event right) Mrs HR Pump organised by the Queensland Aboriginal & Torres and Stuff (Melissa Strait Islander Human Services Coalition. Yost), Life Without Barriers staff member Selina Holtze, Chantal the Fairy (Chantal Munro) and SAF,T‘s Amanda Markwell at Jingili Water Gardens.

Children enjoy the shade during festivities at Undoonoo Child Care Centre, Woorabinda, Queensland.

snaicc news August 2012 11 Recent SNAICC consultations with diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood services around Australia highlight the various and rich ways these services foster children’s sense of cultural identity through their everyday practice.

The setting is an early childhood centre somewhere in Australia. Outside the centre fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, and the playground area shows Culture at the centre of care recent evidence of a campfire where kangaroo tails were cooked and stories told. the Dreamtime story of Mugadan and Jungaa ­— the lizard and the octopus. Murals around the walls display “There’s a whole board of Elders contemporary Aboriginal art, painted To make the story come alive she has by a local artist and depicting colourful brought with her a collection of shells, from over generations. There are scenes from the local area. A sculptured an octopus, and some picture cards. She pictures of Risdon Cove, Oyster sand pit brings together two totems uses words from the local Aboriginal Cove, children that used to come from the two local Aboriginal groups, language, and the children join in, here, or political rallies done showing off their language skills. the platypus and the turtle. by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Inside the centre, photos on the wall In another room children are exploring Centre that got us here. So proudly display the community: Elders, a map of Australia. An educator points when people walk in here they to a map of Australia and asks “who aunties and uncles, children with their all feel welcome, they all feel brothers, sisters, cousins and parents. lives up here? The Kokatha? And what bush tucker are they eating now?” connected…it’s speaking to the These photos help children to establish whole community.” their identity within their family and Children guess that they could be eating community. gulda (sleepy lizards) or wulga (bush Alison Overeem tomatoes). Director, Aboriginal Intricate family trees or webs display Children’s Centre each child’s background and family The conversation moves on to memories Risdon Cove, Tasmania connections — helping them to of a recent bush trip the children understand who their mob is and where went on where they collected bark for they come from. Paintings reflect red, painting, built a wiltja (bush shelter) Instead, these services understand black and yellow, green, blue and white and pretended to hunt gulda... that culture is inherent in all that they colours. Celebrating culture every day do and — critically — that by doing Books in local languages and traditional While this service is fictional, it is a this they are growing up resilient and musical instruments such as the composite of real examples described culturally strong children. As one didgeridoo, clapsticks and warups sit to SNAICC during consultations on educator put it, kids who “know who on shelves and tables. Scattered about how Aboriginal and Torres Strait they are and where they’re going”. are culturally representative puzzles, Islander early childhood services are Supporting children to connect with games and toys such as Aboriginal and incorporating culture on a daily and culture also has significant benefits Torres Strait Islander dolls, that help to ongoing basis. for their families. Through family create a strong learning environment At these services culture is not separation and disadvantage many that reflects Aboriginal and Torres Strait something celebrated on only specific parents and families haven’t had the Islander identities. events during the year such as NAIDOC opportunity as children to learn about In the centre of the room a group of Week or National Aboriginal and and experience their own culture, and young children are gathered around a Islander Children’s Day (although there so passing this on to their kids can be community Elder. She is telling them is a special focus on these). challenging.

12 snaicc news August 2012 “Our service is about Aboriginal kids with Aboriginal kids and Aboriginal staff. I think that is one of the biggest assets and contributors to our success in this. It’s community…it’s not contrived…So I think we take for granted that community connection, and how powerful that cultural connection is when it comes to learning, self-esteem, identity and belonging.” Louise Cave Director, Birrelee MACS

Through their focus on connecting Culture at the centre of care children to culture and building their identity, self-esteem and resilience, our Staff at some early childhood centres are services are clearly leading the way in finding that by teaching children about “Our learning experiences this vital area. their culture and traditional languages, have to be culturally centred, SNAICC research and I think that’s why our kids they are playing an invaluable role in The full report coming out of these reconnecting their families to culture struggle at school, because it consultations — Learning from Good when children take their new knowledge becomes a secondary thing or an Practice: Implementing the Early Years home to share, and when families optional extra. Whereas here it’s Learning Framework for Aboriginal and participate in the centre. our daily experience.” Torres Strait Islander Children — will be Two critical factors available on the SNAICC website soon. Louise Cave Two factors were identified as critical to Director, Birrelee MACS This report explores how Aboriginal and providing a strong, culturally-focused Tamworth, NSW Torres Strait Islander early childhood service — Aboriginal and Torres Strait services implement the EYLF principles, Islander staff and an Aboriginal and practices and outcomes — including Torres Strait Islander community or is captured into the everyday programs through their focus on culture — parent board. and centre environment, and that the to support children and families. service practices are culturally relevant Particularly strong practices were An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and appropriate. community or parent board helps to drawn out around how services promote provide strong oversight, support and They also bring critical knowledge children’s identity and wellbeing. accountability, and to ensure that the of and respect for the different ways As part of the research SNAICC has also direction and practice of the centre of culture, and can often also share produced a series of 12 good practice remains culturally relevant, appropriate cultural knowledge with the children, fact sheets. These are designed to and committed to fostering children’s for example traditional painting, or give educators ideas for promoting, culture and identity . knowledge of bush tucker, traditional exploring and celebrating Aboriginal languages and the local environment. Board members are usually Elders, and Torres Strait Islander cultures while community members, current or former As the Director of a service in remote implementing the outcomes, principles staff and family. Boards often have at Queensland describes, because staff are and practices from the Early Years least one member who was involved in community members, cultural identity is Learning Framework. originally establishing the service, and just “a part of who we are (and) it’s just The fact sheets are not intended to who can provide a unique link to the everyday practice for us.” provide a detailed ‘how to’ guide to past and the original service philosophy The new national curriculum for early implement the EYLF, but instead to agreed upon by the community. childhood, the Early Years Learning prompt conversations and ideas on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Framework (EYLF), states that: “Culture possible approaches. educators were also identified as vital is central to a child’s individuality, They will be also be available on the for services to deliver culturally rich identity and sense of belonging and website and in hard copy shortly. programs. Such staff ensure that culture success in lifelong learning”. snaicc news August 2012 13 A day in the life of TACCA

The Tasmanian Aboriginal Child Care Staff implement the EYLF principle of Association (TACCA) is a licensed child ongoing learning and reflective practice, care centre for 30 children operating which means constantly evaluating in Launceston, Tasmania. teaching techniques and deeply thinking about which activities to promote and It provides an age- and stage-appropriate how. program based on observation and responsiveness to children in a safe Observations are noted about children’s environment, focusing on the individual activities that inform future planning. strengths of children and placing a Families are encouraged to contribute strong emphasis on Tasmanian ideas and input for the program, share Aboriginal culture. photos to display on the Centre wall, and attend the weekly Playgroup. Every TACCA implements the Early Years child’s culture is celebrated, as there is a Learning Framework (EYLF), an fundamental respect for diversity. Australian Government measure to ensure delivery of nationally consistent TACCA utilises a holistic approach and quality early childhood education to children’s development. Bonnie across sectors and jurisdictions. describes the system of family grouping, where children between six months and Educator in charge, Bonnie Gibbons, says five years are placed together, and the that the staff feel the EYLF is a positive older children care for and teach the framework that “really celebrates what younger children, so children without children are.” siblings benefit from interaction. Bonnie believes the approach instills The strengths-based approach aims confidence in staff members, as they to treasure each child independently; must think about whether the frame- instead of focusing on what they cannot work fits their principles, in effect, do, they promote their abilities and strengthening the existing structure interests. while also driving potential improvement and expansion. “Having a really clear idea of where The photos on this page show the breadth of you want your program to go and what activities at TACCA: from gathering kelp (main TACCA invites local Aboriginal learning you want to happen, you can photo) and acorns to make traditional artefacts community members to teach children such as bags, necklaces and collages (bottom see the change in kids on the floor,” says traditional stories, artwork, games and photo), to challenging outdoor activities (top Bonnie. photo) and exploring the individual abilities history. Activities are often designed of children (middle photos). to challenge children to take on Director of TACCA (and SNAICC National investigative roles. Executive member) Lisa Coulson says: “The EYLF has supported early childhood “Parents and carers are learning Teaching children palawa kani, the educators to take families on their to recognise the learning styles of Tasmanian Aboriginal language, children’s learning journey, through their children which is supporting enhances identity and communication sharing the development of the child- the children’s learning, not only in skills. Healthy eating, parenting advice, focused learning program. the centre but in the home and the and intentional teaching strategies are community.” actively fostered.

14 snaicc news August 2012 Harmony the key in music and life

The latest in a series of books based for the children’s art to be part of the Above: Singer-songwriter Neil Murray pictured on famous songs connected with From Little Things book. with journalist and author Martin Flanagan and music legend Archie Roach at the launch of Indigenous Australia has been In September 2010, three more titles in Blackfella Whitefella in Melbourne. published. Blackfella Whitefella the Iconic Song Series were launched by Neil Murray was launched in at Federation Square during Melbourne Bunjilaka, the Aboriginal Cultural Writers Festival — My Island Home by Centre at Melbourne Museum in July. Neil Murray, Solid Rock by Shane Howard The books are a creative way of teaching and Took the Children Away by Archie young readers important lessons in Roach. The books were illustrated by history and the rights of Aboriginal and local schoolchildren and artist Peter Torres Strait Islander people. Children Hudson. from around Australia contributed My Island Home is a vibrant collaboration artwork to illustrate the lyrics. of artwork and lyrics. Neil Murray was a Students from both Thornbury and founding member of the Warampi Band Carlton North Primary schools were in the eighties. Over three albums and present at the Blackfella Whitefella twenty years of performing, the band launch, at which legendary singer- helped make contemporary Indigenous songwriter Archie Roach spoke of the music heard in mainstream. A coming together of all people. Children percentage of the funds raised from book from both schools contributed artworks sales are directed to the communities of sales are donated to Ruby’s Foundation. Papunya. for the book. Archie Roach, a philosopher and story- The first title in the Iconic Song Series Shane Howard wrote Solid Rock after a teller in the tradition of his ancestors, — From Little Things Big Things Grow — moving experience at an inma (a large relays and retells real life stories was inspired by an idea from One Day celebratory gathering) at Uluru. The through song. Archie has also played Hill Publisher, Bernadette Walters, and children’s book retells the story of these an important role in the reconciliation artist Peter Hudson in 2006. Paul Kelly famous lyrics for a new generation. A process — making him an obvious and Kev Carmody agreed to donate their percentage of the profits from book choice to launch Blackfella Whitefella. lyrics. All profits would be donated to sales go towards youth initiatives in communities around Uluru. One Day Hill has also partnered with the NT community of to Ian Thorpe’s Fountain for Youth. The develop a place where artists could meet Took the Children Away by Archie Roach foundation aims to help all Australian and paint. is a moving indictment of the treatment children read and enjoy their own The funds were raised and in 2008, of Indigenous children from the ‘Stolen stories. To date, the foundation has One Day Hill engaged Affirm Press as Generations’. The song, with the artwork raised over $100,000 through book a partner in the project to assist with of his late wife and musical collaborator sales. the publication. Affirm Press was Ruby Hunter, has created a children’s The iconic song books are available instrumental in providing inspiration book that tells the truth about the Stolen Generations. All profits from book through SNAICC. snaicc news August 2012 15 Planning is well under way for the what works and how we address our Fifth SNAICC National Conference, challenges. to be held at the Cairns Convention Inspire Action Centre from 4 to 6 June next year. To inspire and enable leaders, The conference will provide a unique services and others to act in a way opportunity for us to gather and that strengthens Aboriginal and make renewed commitments to our Torres Strait Islander agency, self- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander determination, and connection to children. culture. To ensure the rights of our Lynelle Flinders Titled For Our Children: Living and children and families are respected Learning Together, the conference’s and fulfilled. key objectives are: Listen, Learn and Grow Share and Celebrate Stories To listen, learn and grow our To celebrate Aboriginal and Torres knowledge of Elders, families and Strait Islander cultures, strengths and communities, to strengthen our connection to culture. To inspire, successes in child and family services. Tommy Pau To share our stories and ideas about foster and develop leadership and collective responses.

Call for Abstracts The Call for Abstracts is now open and we are presently seeking presentation from interested Terry Platt communities, organisations and individuals. A resident of Cairns, much of Tommy’s Presentations can include: short influence and inspiration comes from papers; interactive sessions such the people, stories, places, skills of and as workshops, discussion circles, connections to his Islander, Aboriginal, stories or case studies; poster Conference logo Papua New Guinea, Pacific and Asian displays; and multimedia, including Our 2013 conference logo design is a heritage. collaboration by three Diploma students digital stories. Terry Platt, Kuuku Ya’u/Lama Lama at Cairns TAFE who are already The conference themes are: established artists in their own right — Terry is one of the original artists from the Lockhart River Art Gang who has • child protection and out-of- Lynelle Flinders, Tommy Pau and Terry achieved interstate recognition for home care Platt. The artwork represents “keeping the home fires burning and handing his diverse range of work. Terry is an • early childhood stories down through the generations”. Aboriginal man from the Lama Lama • young people group. His father’s traditional country • family Lynelle Flinders is Lockhart River and his mother’s Lynelle is a descendant of the Dharrba • other, including culture, remote traditional country is Coen. Waara Clan of the Starkey River region work, healing, rights, roles and Terry is a storyteller who creates images near Hope Vale. She lives in Cairns responsibilities about his traditional country, his with her family, and sees herself as a people, lifestyles and experiences as an Deadline for submissions is contemporary Indigenous artist. A lot of Aboriginal man. 30 September 2012. her work is about nature and her faith. SNAICC thanks them for creating this For full guidelines and how to Tommy Pau design and looks forward to rolling submit an abstract visit www. Tommy is an Indigenous person who out the conference logo across all the snaicc.org.au or contact the likes to work in sculpture, carving, conference publications and seeing Conference Secretariat, Sharyn print, painting, installation art, digital more of their work in the future. Low on (02) 4572 3079 or email: multimedia — “anything that grabs my [email protected] interest”.

16 snaicc news August 2012 SNAICC’s new resource on healing

SNAICC is publishing a new resource communities’ strengths and requires looking at promising practices in the community leadership, community “Healing gives us back to area of healing for Aboriginal and ownership and community knowledge. ourselves. Not to hide or Torres Strait Islander children and Among the programs showcased are fight anymore. But to sit families. Berry Street’s Take Two Program in still, calm our minds, listen Healing programs in Australia are at Victoria, the Healthy Family Circle to the universe and allow our a new frontier. Prime Minister Kevin Program in New South Wales and the spirits to dance on the wind. Rudd’s National Apology in 2008 and Yorgum Aboriginal Family Counseling It lets us enjoy the sunshine the establishment of the Aboriginal Service in Western Australia. and be bathed by the golden and Torres Strait Islander Healing At the core of each of these programs Foundation helped put healing at the glow of the moon as we drift is a focus on strengthening children’s forefront of the national conversation into our dreamtime. Healing connections to Aboriginal people for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ultimately gives us back to and culture. Programs profiled in the people. resource have been detailed under our country. To stand once Healing in Practice documents four primary principles listed by the again in our rightful place, programs that enhance Aboriginal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eternal and generational.” and Torres Strait Islander children and Healing Foundation as essential for — Helen Milroy successful healing. families capacity for healing, to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait services that are looking to establish The four key principles are: Islander Healing Foundation a new healing service or program, or Development Team strengthen an existing one. • address the causes • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Individuals and organisations interested Islander ownership in enhancing the healing of children Healing in Practice also discusses the and families are encouraged to use • Aboriginal and Torres Strait meaning of healing, the need for this resource creatively to achieve this Islander worldview, and healing, and documents some practices outcome. • a strength-based approach of programs already experiences successes in working with Aboriginal By highlighting how these core The resource is intended to be practical and Torres Strait Islander peoples and principles work within each program, and informative. It is not, however, a the necessary elements required for SNAICC hopes to provide communities catalogue where programs can simply promising healing practices. SNAICC with inspiration, ideas and examples be plucked from its pages and expected hopes services will be able to gain new that they can adapt to their particular to be relevant and effective in any ideas and information to assist the needs and circumstances. This work also situation or context. development of this work. builds up the practice-based evidence The resource illustrates that effective of what works and why, enabling our For more information contact: and sustainable programs for Aboriginal community-organisations to refine their [email protected] and Torres Strait Islander children and practice and service. families always draw upon the local

snaicc news August 2012 17 New parenting guides for Aboriginal families in WA

WA Community Services Minister Robyn McSweeney has launched parenting resources for Western Australian Aboriginal families titled Guiding our children, our way. The tip sheets for new Aboriginal parents is the first in a series of SNAICC has produced a hard-copy parenting guides to be rolled out later edition of its popular Growing up this year. our way: Aboriginal and Torres “Parenting is a tough job, your children Strait Islander Child Rearing don’t come with a manual and it is Practices Matrix. important to get as much information The matrix was published online and advice as possible to help with the in late 2011, but such has been the important task of raising children,” Mrs interest from communities that McSweeney said. SNAICC decided to go to print to “These guides are written by Aboriginal make the guide more accessible. people for Aboriginal people and are “These guides are The matrix was developed following a intended to benefit new parents raising written by Aboriginal two-year research project by SNAICC children through to the teenage years.” people for Aboriginal of the literature on Aboriginal and Guiding our children, our way is a set of people and are Torres Strait Islander child rearing 12 tip sheets that cover topics such as: practices, values and beliefs. intended to benefit • raising families and respecting Growing up our way provides detailed Aboriginal ways new parents raising quotes on Aboriginal and Torres • Aboriginal identity children through to the Strait Islander child rearing practices • the importance of role models teenage years.” — collected from the relevant literature, through independent • what makes families work well research and interviews with Education and Research, provided • step families members of Aboriginal and Torres further help. • story-telling Strait Islander communities. The guides are available free on the • the importance of grandparents Detailing some of the values, beliefs Department for Communities website. • getting support, and and practices that help children grow • helping children grieve. The Department for Communities also up strong in self and proud in culture, delivers the Aboriginal-specific early this resource is for all who are “These sheets are just one part of a suite years Best Start programs, which interested in preserving, promoting, of resources on offer to all WA parents support Aboriginal families in nurturing valuing and respecting the diversity and families and I would encourage children’s development during the first of Aboriginal and Torres Strait anyone needing support or advice in five years. Islander child rearing practices. raising children to contact Parenting WA,” the Minister said. The Parenting WA Aboriginal Guides One of the resource’s key aims is to were launched on 4 July as part of the preserve and promote Aboriginal and Donna Legge, Manager Program activities to celebrate 2012 NAIDOC Torres Strait Islander child rearing Development at the Department for Week. practices for our communities, for Communities, said the guides were our families, and for our future Other parenting guides to be launched based on Parent Easy Guides from South generations. Australia. later this year and next year will focus on babies, children, teenager and It also aims to increase the cultural Donna said the guides had undergone a families. awareness — and culturally- rigorous quality assurance process and appropriate work practices — of The Parenting WA Aboriginal Guides are been adapted for WA by two Aboriginal those working with, and supporting, available at www.communities.wa.gov. staff from the department. Professor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander au under the Parenting WA section. Colleen Hayward, head of Kurongkurl children. Katitjin, Edith Cowan University’s Parenting WA offers a free 24/7 help line The guide is available from SNAICC Centre for Indigenous Australian on (08) 6279 1200 or 1800 654 432. (see contact details on page 19).

18 snaicc news August 2012 Cultural competence workshops

“I liked the way proving a hit it made me see things completely differently — thank you.” SNAICC, in partnership with Family “I would like & Relationship Services Australia to attend more (FRSA), is offering two-day “Working workshops like and Walking Together” Cultural this one, because, Competence Workshops, which are I can work more proving a great success with service professionally in providers. the workplace.” — Comments from This two-day journey is both awakening 2012 workshop and empowering for participants. participants With highly-skilled, sensitive and knowledgeable facilitators and a high-quality resource manual as the foundation of this training, and encouragement to strengthen the discussions and activities both for individuals across different relationships with Aboriginal and Torres challenge and educate participants. organisations. Workshops require a Strait Islander families, communities minimum of 15 and maximum of 20 The workshops are aimed at services and organisations. participants, and can be held in any that wish to develop culturally The workshops are delivered by two location across Australia. Fees for appropriate professional practices for presenters (usually one Aboriginal/ workshops vary depending on the working with Aboriginal and Torres Torres Strait Islander and one non- location and number of participants. Strait Islander families. Indigenous person). The presenters For more information or to make a Based on SNAICC’s 2010 manual support participants to reflect on booking, please contact Kate at FRSA on Working and Walking Together, the their own personal experience and (02) 6162 1811 or emailing kateallen@ workshop provides ideas, information, professional practise. The workshops frsa.org.au tools, case studies, practical tips can be run for an organisation or

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relevant organisations for current information Subscriptions are paid annually on the concerning their activities. calendar year. Members and affiliate members receive the newsletter as part of their Line art by Nina Kelabora. SNAICC News is the quarterly newsletter of membership. the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Subscribe and contribute to SNAICC News Subscriber forms or credit card subscriber Islander Child Care Inc. Contributions to SNAICC News are welcome. payment online www.snaicc.asn.au or ring © SNAICC 2012. Copyright for images Any organisation, government department or the SNAICC finance section to organise and text published is retained by SNAICC, individual may subscribe to SNAICC News and EFTPOS. unless specified otherwise. Please seek receive other information on Aboriginal and For SNAICC News inquiries contact: permission from SNAICC before reproducing Torres Strait Islander child and family issues. [email protected] information published here. While SNAICC Subscription fees (incl GST & postage) Tel: 03 9489 8099 makes an effort to ensure the information Government $150 PO Box 1445, Fitzroy North published herein is correct at the time Non-government $120 Victoria 3068 of printing, readers should contact the Individuals $35

snaicc news August 2012 19 Our Children, Our Culture, Our Way Book celebrates 25 years of NAICD

Main photo: Ben Lawrie (circled) as a seven-year- old at a protest in Sydney in 1988. Top photo: Ben today, with daughter Kirra. Above: Ben’s mum Lyn with Kirra and another grandchild, Amon.

ceremony Lore… the ceremony involved Ben Lawrie was seven years old when thousands of other Aboriginal people at least 30 boys who went through Lore, he attended the Survival March in from Redfern oval to the city, my son and they are now traditional owners Sydney in 1988, one of many protests and his little mates on the day took of men business. during Australia’s bicentennial turns holding the SNAICC banner,” Lyn “Ceremony was a very proud time for me celebrations that year that included wrote in a letter to SNAICC. and my family, us women danced for our the inaugural National Aboriginal “My son Ben Lawrie is now 31 years sons all night (traditional way — under and Islander Children’s Day (NAICD). old...he is the little boy directly under the stars at Mornington Island). Ben was photographed with lots of the “C” of the word Cultural. Ben was “Kirra knows her father’s story, we have other Aboriginal children under the born in June 1980, so he is about seven pictures from the ceremony, when her “Our Kids — 1998 SNAICC” banner — an and half years of age (in the photo). father was 15 years old, because we iconic photo that would form the basis “Ben lives on the Central Coast NSW, live in a very modern urban society, of the first NAICD poster. (Budgewoi) and he has a daughter I have committed to never letting my Earlier this year, Ben’s mother Lyn Kirra who is 10 years old. Kirra lives grandchildren miss out on who they are was one of the many people to contact with her non-Aboriginal mother; Kirra and who they belong to, I just think for SNAICC when it sent out a call for photos comes to our place and Ben’s place Kirra and for Ben’s relationship, sharing to feature in a coffee table book to mark every weekend and school holidays. a picture of them in such a beautiful the 25th anniversary of children’s day. She is very connected to her culture and project book would consolidate for is proud of her father and Aboriginal Ben and Lyn and their family are her that although she has fair skin, family, she has a very strong connection featured in the book — titled Our her father is who he is, an Aboriginal to her Aboriginal cultural identity.” Children, Our Culture, Our Way — which traditional man. contains many wonderful images of Lyn has two other grandchildren to “As an Aboriginal mother from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander daughter Rowena, 16-year-old Kiyahna Queensland, the one thing I have tried children and families. and five-year-old Amon. “They both love to instil in my children and grand- to get painted up and dressed for dance. Lyn explained the events behind the children is Aboriginal cultural pride. Amon is grounded and connected to his photo — and events in her family in the Everything else can follow, but my view Aboriginal culture,” Lyn wrote. 25 years that followed. is if you’re strong in your identity, you “In 1995 my son Ben and Amon’s father can be strong in other things.” “In 1988 I attended the Survival March Clayton travelled to Mornington Island held in Sydney NSW, I had my children Our Children, Our Culture, Our Way is where they stayed for four to five with me, we walked with all the other available for purchase from SNAICC (see months and went through Aboriginal our contact details on page 19).