Our Students and Aboriginal Family Sovereignty honours the centrality of family, which encompasses the kinship structures that exist in Aboriginal people’s lives. This Guiding Principle recognises the inclusion of Aboriginal families in decision-making processes where culturally responsive consultation is a right, not a privilege or concession.

What are some practical examples I can use to embed this Guiding Principle?

Practical application of this Framework will look and feel different across the many contexts and environments of NSW public education . Everyone is encouraged to embrace the Framework and determine what the Guiding Principles mean for the work that we do.

When developing policy, strategy, programs or when commencing school planning, it is important to engage with Aboriginal students, families, communities, staff and peak representative bodies in the first instance, prior to decision making or design wherever possible.

Below are some ideas to consider as you continue your journey:

1. Know your Aboriginal students, their families and communities. Understand and acknowledge who they are, where they are from and the kinship structures that exist in their lives. This is also inclusive of knowing and understanding their aspirations and working in partnership to realise these.
2. Involve Aboriginal students and families, Aboriginal staff and peak organisations in decision making processes and be transparent. Aboriginal Family Sovereignty recognises that culturally responsive consultation is a right, not a privilege or concession. Opportunities for involvement include:
   • engaging Aboriginal staff on the development of strategy, policy, projects and initiatives across the department.
   • ensuring that there is an Aboriginal Education Committee functioning within your school.
   • creating space and time for authentic and genuine consultation with Aboriginal communities.
   • considering the establishment of an Aboriginal Advisory Committee to guide development of initiatives and evaluation plans.
3. Learn about the key Aboriginal community organisations in NSW. Build your Relationships with key stakeholders like the:
   • NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. (NSW AECG);
   • NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC), and
   • Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs).

Engaging with our partners can be a great way to start engaging with Aboriginal families and communities in your area.

Hear more about the importance of Our Students and Aboriginal Family Sovereignty

Associate Professor Kathleen Butler, Head of Institute, Wollotuka Institute, University of Newcastle discusses the benefits of embracing the Principle of Our Students and Aboriginal Family Sovereignty.

Nathan Towney, Pro Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Strategy and Leadership, University of Newcastle talks about the opportunities for the education system in applying the Principle of Our Students and Aboriginal Family Sovereignty.

Tammy Anderson, Principal, Briar Road Public School, explains how she applies this Principle with students, families and communities.

Narelle Daniels, Secretary, NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. shares what the Framework means to her and talks about the diversity of mob.

Want to know more? Share your feedback through the QR code so the Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships Directorate Team can ensure that we are building the resources you need to be culturally responsive in evaluation and school planning.

If you would like a presentation for your Directorate, please contact aopcorrespondence@det.nsw.edu.au