This section provides essential cultural protocols, funeral services, funding assistance, permits, and details of significant events to ensure respectful interactions with communities across Western Australia.
Culture and Community
| Guideline | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduce Yourself | Always introduce yourself to Elders or community leaders. Elders hold significant cultural and decision-making authority in many communities. |
| Eye Contact | In some communities, avoiding direct eye contact, especially with Elders, is a sign of respect. |
| Gender Norms | Be mindful of gender-specific customs; in some communities, interactions between men and women may be restricted or regulated. |
| Language Awareness | Be aware that in many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, English is not the first language spoken (it could be the 3rd or 4th language spoken), and there may be a language barrier. Additionally, English words and Aboriginal words can have different meanings in different communities. |
| Respect Silence | In Aboriginal communities, silence is often used to show respect or deep thought. Do not mistake silence for misunderstanding or disengagement. |
| Respect Community Decisions | Respect any community decision that guides your movements. When visiting a community, it is important to follow local customs and advice. |
| Lore | Aboriginal Lore refers to the traditional laws and customs that guide the spiritual and physical lives of community members. It is passed down through generations and varies by region and community. |
| Sorry Time | The time it takes for everyone to arrive to pay their respects when someone has passed away. Communities ‘cry together’ for the lost loved one. |
| Sorry Business | ‘Sorry Business’ refers to the cultural mourning practices and ceremonies following the death of a community member. It involves collective grieving and may include specific protocols such as avoiding the deceased's name or image. These practices are profoundly communal and may involve the entire community, sometimes leading to temporary closures or restricted access. |
| Ceremonial Etiquette | Attend ceremonies only if invited. Many ceremonies are deeply spiritual and may not be open to visitors. |
| Photography/Filming | Always seek permission before taking photos or videos. Specific images, ceremonies, and places may be considered sacred and should not be captured without consent. |
| Welcome to Country | A Welcome to Country is a formal ceremony by a Traditional Owner or Elder to welcome visitors to their land. It often includes speeches, traditional dances, or smoking ceremonies. Only Traditional Owners can perform this. |
| Acknowledgement of Country | Anyone can offer an Acknowledgement of Country as a mark of respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land. It’s usually done at the start of meetings or events, especially if a Welcome to Country isn’t possible. |
| Alcohol Restrictions | Many communities have restrictions on alcohol consumption. Always check with local authorities or community leaders before bringing alcohol into any area. |
| Leave Nature Untouched | Avoid taking objects such as rocks, plants, or soil from the land, as these may hold cultural significance or be considered part of sacred landscapes. |
Useful Resources:
- Moorditj Koort – Cultural Awareness Training: www.moorditjkoort.com.au/services/cultural-awareness-training.aspx
- Creative Spirits – Cultural Protocols: www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture
- Australians Together – Indigenous Culture: www.australianstogether.org.au/discover/indigenous-culture/
- Reconciliation Australia – Cultural Protocols: www.reconciliation.org.au/acknowledgement-and-welcome-to-country/
- Working Together: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health and Wellbeing Principles and Practice: www.thekids.org.au/globalassets/media/documents/aboriginal-health/working-together-second-edition/working-together-aboriginal-and-wellbeing-2014.pdf
Specific Aboriginal communities in Western Australia require permits to enter to protect their cultural integrity and ensure respectful interactions with the land and people. Some communities may temporarily close due to cultural reasons, including ceremonies or Sorry Business. Below is detailed information on how to apply for permits, what to consider, and where to get the necessary documentation.
Where to Get Permits:
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)
Permits from DBCA are required to access certain national parks, reserves, and Aboriginal lands.
Website: www.permits.dbca.wa.gov.au - Ngaanyatjarra Council – Ngaanyatjarra Lands
Permits are required for access to Ngaanyatjarra Lands, including Warburton and Wingellina.
Website: www.ngaanyatjarra.org.au/permits - Central Land Council (CLC)
Responsible for permits to Aboriginal lands in the central desert region.
Website: www.clc.org.au/permits - Kimberley Land Council (KLC)
For access to Aboriginal lands in the Kimberley region.
Website: www.klc.org.au/permits - Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) – Pilbara and Mid West/Murchison/Gascoyne Permits to access some Aboriginal lands in the Pilbara and Mid West/Murchison/Gascoyne regions are managed by YMAC, which represents Traditional Owners. This includes areas with cultural and environmental significance where permits are needed to ensure respect and compliance with community regulations.
Website: https://www.ymac.org.au/work-with-ymac/permits/ - South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council (SWALSC) Noongar lands in the South West may require permits and access for some lands. SWALSC guides how to engage with the Noongar community and access culturally significant sites.
Website: https://www.noongar.org.au/ - Goldfields Land and Sea Council (GLSC)
Permits may be required to access certain Aboriginal lands in the Goldfields region. The GLSC represents Traditional Owners and provides guidance on accessing culturally significant sites.
Website: https://www.glsc.com.au/
Upon Arrival
Upon arrival at the community, you must always report to:
- The community office is often located at the centre of the community.
- If there is no office, try visiting in this order:
(i) the store,
(ii) the clinic, or
(iii) the school.
This helps ensure the community is aware of your presence and respects local customs and protocols.
Western Australia hosts many events throughout the year that celebrate Aboriginal culture, history, and achievements. These events offer a chance to learn and engage with Indigenous traditions.
| Event | Date | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healing Foundation’s Anniversary | 16 March | Commemorates the journey of healing for the Stolen Generations through reflection and public events. | www.healingfoundation.org.au |
| National Sorry Day | 26 May | A day of remembrance for the Stolen Generations, marked by events focused on acknowledging and healing. | www.australia.gov.au/about-australia/australian-story/sorry-day-stolen-generations |
| National Reconciliation Week | 27 May – 3 June | Promotes reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians through discussions and events. | www.reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week |
| Mabo Day | 3 June | Celebrates the Mabo Decision, overturning "terra nullius" and recognising native title rights. | www.reconciliation.org.au/mabo-day |
| NAIDOC Week | The First Full Week of July | Celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and achievements with nationwide events. | www.naidoc.org.au |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day | 4 August | Focuses on the importance of Indigenous children, their rights, and connection to culture. | www.aboriginalchildrensday.com.au |
| National Indigenous Peoples Day | 9 August | Honours the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia. | www.un.org/en/observances/indigenous-day |
Each region in Western Australia holds unique cultural events, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions of Aboriginal communities. These events help preserve and share Indigenous culture with the broader public.
| Region | Event | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimberley Region | Mowanjum Festival | Celebrates the art, dance, and storytelling of the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunambal peoples. | www.mowanjumarts.com/festival/ |
| Pilbara Region | Sounds of the Pilbara | Showcases traditional and modern Aboriginal music from the Pilbara region. | www.regionalartswa.org.au/news/wam-sounds-of-the-pilbara-ii/ |
| Mid West/Murchison/Gascoyne Region | Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre | Focuses on preserving Gascoyne Aboriginal heritage through exhibitions and language resources. | www.gwoonwardumia.com.au |
| Central Desert Region | Tjukurba Art Gallery | Showcases the vibrant art of the Martu people, highlighting their connection to the land and cultural traditions. | www.tjukurba.com.au/ |
| Goldfields Region | Leonora Golden Gift Festival | Celebrates Aboriginal storytelling, art, and culture alongside athletic events. | www.leonora.wa.gov.au |
| South West Region | Wardandi Boodja Cultural Events | Celebrates the cultural traditions of the Wardandi people. | www.wardandiboodja.com/ |
| Perth (Metropolitan Region) | NAIDOC Week Perth | Celebrates Aboriginal culture, history, and achievements through parades, exhibitions, and performances. | www.naidocperth.org/ |
Funerals in Aboriginal communities often involve deeply rooted cultural traditions. These services specialise in providing respectful, culturally appropriate funeral arrangements across Western Australia.
| Service | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Towards the Dreaming Funeral Services | Specialises in traditional Aboriginal funerals, particularly in the Pilbara and other remote regions. | www.towardsthedreaming.com.au |
| Bowra & O'Dea Funeral Services | Provides culturally respectful services across regional and remote WA, including traditional rituals like smoking ceremonies. | www.bowraodea.com.au |
| Returning Home AUS | Offers culturally sensitive funeral services, ensuring respect for Indigenous customs in remote communities. | www.returninghome.com.au/indigenous-funerals/ |
| Desert Funerals | Based in Alice Springs, this service extends to remote northern WA, offering culturally appropriate funeral arrangements. | www.desertfunerals.com.au |
| Willed Funeral Services | Assists families in planning traditional Aboriginal funerals, respecting the cultural traditions of the deceased. | www.willed.com.au |
Several organisations offer financial assistance to families in Aboriginal communities to help cover the costs of culturally appropriate funerals. Here are key sources of funeral funding:
| Funeral Assistance Provider | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Bereavement Assistance Program (WA Government) | Provides financial support for families unable to afford funeral costs. | www.wa.gov.au/service/community-services/grants-and-subsidies/bereavement-assistance-program |
| Gumala Aboriginal Corporation – Funeral Assistance | Offers up to $2,000 for funeral-related expenses, ensuring cultural traditions are respected. | www.gumala.com.au/programs/funerals/ |
| South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council – Noongar Charitable Trust | Provides up to $2,000 in funeral funding for Noongar community members. | www.noongar.org.au/charitable-trusts |
| Legal Aid WA – Funeral Assistance | Legal Aid WA offers guidance on covering funeral costs through the Homicide Funeral Assistance Scheme and other support. | www.legalaid.wa.gov.au/get-legal-help/community/wills-and-estates/funerals |
| Aboriginal Community Funeral Assistance Program (ACFAP) | Provides financial assistance to cover funeral costs for Aboriginal families, particularly in remote areas. | www.acfap.org.au |
| Pay the Rent – Mob Funeral Support | Offers financial assistance for culturally respectful funerals, especially in remote Aboriginal communities. | www.paytherent.net.au/formob-funeralsupport/ |
