Welcoming Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

The traditional culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is resilient and values Elders and Traditional Customs, such as mutuality, respect and a shared vision of community. The strength and spirit of Traditional Owners’ culture provides a sound basis for a sustainable community.

To help make our community an inclusive place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we want you to get to know them a little better, so here is some interesting information:

• The Eastern Kulin Nation of the Boon Wurrung/Bunurong, and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples are the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which Glen Eira resides.
• In the 2021 Census, 411 Glen Eira residents identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander out of a total of 65,646 in Victoria.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples work here too — in a variety of roles and businesses, including Council.
• Some people think Aboriginal peoples get special benefits and privileges from the government, however this is not true. All Australians are subject to the same social security laws and entitled to the same government sponsorship.
• In the 2021 Census, the median age for Aboriginal Victorians was 24 years. In Glen Eira, the median age of Indigenous residents is slightly higher at 29 years.
• When Aboriginal peoples call something ‘deadly’ it means they really like it, so if an Aboriginal person tells you they think you’re deadly, take it as a big compliment.
• All Aboriginal peoples are not the same. Even in Victoria Aboriginal peoples have different languages and customs and different views on issues, just like non-Indigenous Australians.
• Skin colour doesn’t determine Aboriginality. You could have red hair and freckles and still be a deadly brother or sister! You are considered Aboriginal if you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, identify and are accepted as such by your community.
• Sometimes people don’t identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, especially if light-skinned, because they are afraid they will become the target of racism and discrimination.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are successful in many careers, including football, the arts, academia, law, medicine, business, architecture and more. Glen Eira City Council is working towards a unified, respectful and thriving community that embraces Australia’s First Peoples for their experiences of the past, their resilience in the present and their aspirations for the future.

Please join us and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in making Glen Eira a culturally strong and
respectful community.