Glenelg Shire Council has today adopted its first Position Statement to strengthen Aboriginal inclusion in the Glenelg Shire, marking an important step in recognising Country, strengthening relationships and guiding how Council works alongside Traditional Owners into the future.
Mayor Cr Karen Stephens said the Statement brings together existing work while providing a clear and considered path forward.
“For the first time, we are adopting an Aboriginal statement of this kind. It reflects the work already underway and sets a strong foundation for how we move forward with purpose and respect,” Cr Stephens said.
Glenelg Shire sits within a landscape of deep cultural significance across southwest Victoria, where the Gunditjmara, Jardwadjali and Boandik peoples have cared for land and water for thousands of years.
The Statement recognises that parts of this shared history have not always been fully acknowledged. It commits Council to ensuring the story of Glenelg is told with honesty, including the lived experiences of Aboriginal people.
“This is about recognising the full history of our Shire and ensuring our shared identity reflects both its past and its living culture,” Cr Stephens said.
Council acknowledges its responsibility to lead with care, particularly where conversations may bring different perspectives from across the community. The Statement sets out a measured approach focused on understanding, partnership and respect.
While the adoption marks a significant milestone, it builds on work already underway across Council. The Statement consolidates this work into a clear framework that will guide decisions, public spaces and relationships.
Importantly, it recognises that the impacts of the past continue to shape the present and commits Council to embedding truth and respect into everyday practice.
“As a Council, our role is to engage in partnership. That means creating space for Aboriginal knowledge, strengthening relationships and continuing to learn over time,” Cr Stephens said.
Through this Statement, Glenelg Shire Council affirms its commitment to a future where community understanding grows, connections deepen and the cultural heritage of this place is acknowledged not only in words, but in meaningful action.
To learn more, visit: www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/Our-Community/First-Nations-People/Position-Statement-Commitments-and-Actions-on-Aboriginal-Affairs
Listen to the full statement below.
