Reconciliation Australia (RA) is an independent not-for profit organisation, the lead body for reconciliation in Australia. It promotes and facilitate reconciliation by building relationships, respect and trust between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Truth-telling
RA has recently posted an update about its Community Truth-telling Pathways program (CTTP). 'Truth-telling', says RA, 'encompasses a range of activities, initiatives and processes that enable a fuller and more accurate account of Australia’s history, an account that recognises the strength and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It acknowledges the historical silencing of injustices and ongoing impacts of colonisation on First Nations peoples. It is fundamental to advancing reconciliation.'
Defending Country is on the same track. The very first page of our website says, 'The Australian War Memorial must properly recognise and commemorate the Australian Frontier Wars as an essential part of Truth-telling and as a first step to reframing Australian national commemoration (emphasis added)'.
RA's website includes resources, case studies and research. RA head, Karen Mundine, writes:
The concept of truth-telling, truth-listening and truth-acting is at the heart of why we believe it is a powerful driver of reconciliation. Setting the record straight is critical. However, it will not create a stronger, more united future if there is not a transformational response in the way our governments, businesses and communities operate.
A notable entry on the site is 'Defying colonial standards', the story of how students and staff of Mosman Park Primary School in Boorloo/Perth researched local history to wind back the murderous role of Captain James Stirling, perpetrator of the Pinjarra Massacre, and emphasise instead the courage of Noongar woman, Fanny Balbuk, in resisting colonisation.
Yarning Competition
RA also recently announced the winners of the annual Yarning Competition for young First Nations artists. The winners came to the Australian Parliament in Canberra this week for a presentation event and the launch of the Yarning Exhibition (shows winning and all entries).
'The Yarning Competition is about storytelling', says RA. 'It aims to raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to provide a platform for secondary school students to connect with, and learn about, the work of the Australian Parliament.'
The students' work addressed one of four themes: Country and Connection; Identity and Culture; Family and Community; Reconciliation.
Year 9 winner Charlotte (Wiradjuri) said, 'Through this artwork, I wanted to express that Country is more than just land. It holds spirit, history, stories, and identity, similar to how the roots of a tree run deep beneath the Earth. The connection between people and Country continues to support, guide, and strengthen future generations.'
The judges for the 2026 competition were the Speaker of the House, the Hon Milton Dick MP, the Member for Lingiari, Ms Marion Scrymgour MP; the Member for Grey, Mr Tom Venning MP and the Member for Curtin, Ms Kate Chaney MP. Entries were shortlisted by the Parliamentary Service Indigenous Employee Network.
For our earlier posts about the work of Reconciliation Australia, use our Search engine.
Picture credit: downloaded by permission from the Reconciliation Australia website. Reconciliation Week ran this year from 27 May to 3 June.
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