OIEWelcomeToCountryProtocol_OIE_PDF Standard

CSIRO’s Indigenous Engagement Protocol for performing a ‘Welcome to Country’ and ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ CSIRO CSIRO Protocol November 2010

CONTENTS 3 3 1. INTRODUCTION 3 2. RATIONALE 4 2.1. Major CSIRO Events 4 2.2. Display of National Flags 4 2.3. Significant Dates and Indigenous Events to Remember 4 3. APPROPRIATE CEREMONIES 5 3.1. The ‘Welcome to Country’ 5 3.1.1. Negotiating a ‘Welcome To Country’ 5 3.2. The ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ 5 3.2.1. Suggested Wording of an Acknowledgement of Country 6 3.3. Smoking Ceremony 6 3.4. Dance Performances 6 4. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND PAYMENT 6 4.1. Payment – Fee for Service 7 4.1.1. Payment Methods 7 5. INDIGENOUS CULTURAL PROTOCOLS AND SENSITIVITIES 9 6. INFORMATION AND LINKS 10 APPENDICES - Map of Aboriginal Australia REFERENCES CSIRO Protocol Copyright and Disclaimer © 2010 CSIRO To the extent permitted by law, all rights are reserved and no part of this publication cpoevrmeriesdsiobny ocof CpySrIiRghOt. may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means except with the written Important Disclaimer: CSIRO advises that the information contained in this publication comprises general statements based on scientific research.The reader is advised and needs to be aware that such information may be incomplete oinrfournmabatleiotnowbiethuosuetdseinekainnyg sppreiocirfiecxspiteurattiporno. fNesosiorenlaial,nscceieonrtifaicctaionnds tmecuhsnt itchael raedfvoircee.bTeo mthaedeexotenntthat pacoreinsrimsnegiqttdueiedrenbccteylysl,aoiwnrc, ilCnuddSIiirnRegOcbtl(uyintfrcnoloumdt ilnuimgsiinittegsdethmtiosppalolulybleoliescssaetasion, dnda(cmionanpgseaurslt,taconotrssti)ns,ewexxchplouedlene)sseasanladl nliaadnbayilnitinyyfoototrhmaenaryticoponemropsroenmnsfaaotteriorainan,ly contained in it. Cover Photograph: Description: Mutawintji National Park NSW, B. Moggridge CSIRO 2010. 2 [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required]

CSIRO’s Indigenous Engagement Protocol for performing a ‘Welcome to Country’ and ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ CSIRO Protocol 1. INTRODUCTION As Australia’s premier research organisation CSIRO recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have extraordinary contributions to make to Australia in cultural, economic and scientific domains. CSIRO recognises the importance of engaging Indigenous communities where our activities have potential impact, as well as the value of incorporating Indigenous knowledge within our work. CSIRO also recognises that social and economic disadvantage have been experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Indigenous Australians and is committed to making a science- based contribution to redressing this imbalance. CSIRO recognises that incorporating Indigenous knowledge of ecological and social systems is vital to the achievement of sustainable development. CSIRO recognises traditional owners at our meetings and inviting Aboriginal Elders to give a Welcome to Country ceremony at events is one way we can show our respect for Australia’s first People. This Protocol details the conduct that CSIRO expects of its staff and researchers when undertaking a Key Note address, coordinating a conference, major CSIRO product / book / initiative launch. The purpose of these guidelines is to ensure that the correct protocols are used for across all areas of CSIRO for ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremonies. Definition The process of `Welcome to Country’ and `Acknowledgement of Country’ is a traditional practice performed by Indigenous people for many years and was performed when visitors came to their community. Performing these ceremonies today is a small but significant step that recognises the unique position that Indigenous people hold in Australian culture and history. Indigenous people are the original custodians of Australia. It is important this unique position is recognised and incorporated as part of official protocol and events to enable the wider community to share in Aboriginal culture and heritage, facilitating better relationships between Indigenous people and other Australians. [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required] 3

2. RATIONALE These Guidelines apply to all staff responsible for organising ‘Welcome to Country’ and ‘Indigenous Acknowledgement’ ceremonies. 2.1. Major CSIRO Events A Welcome to Country ceremony (see Section 3.1) can be undertaken by an appropriate Traditional Custodian at all major CSIRO official events, where members of the public, representatives of CSIRO and other agencies and/or the media are present. If a Traditional Owner is not available then an ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ (see Section 3.2) is to be delivered by the most senior CSIRO person attending the event. Events in this category include but not limited to: • opening of a new CSIRO Laboratory or Building; • major launches of CSIRO publications, reports, policies and programs; • conferences and forums held or sponsored by CSIRO; • Executive Management Council (EMC) meetings; and • national or state-wide meetings conducted by CSIRO Divisions or Flagships. 2.2. Display of National Flags Events at which there are flags on display, the preferred order from left too right is – The Australian Flag, the relevant State Flag,The Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag. 2.3. Significant Dates and Indigenous Events to Remember To assist in planning for events, a calendar/database of events is recommended in which Indigenous ceremonies can be incorporated. Such major Indigenous events include: • 26th January (since 1788) Australia Day / Survival Day (which is an Indigenous perspective). • 26th May (since 1998) Sorry Day - in commemoration of the Bringing Them Home report being handed to the Federal Government on 26 May 1997. • 27th May 1967 Referendum in which more than 90 per cent of Australians voted to remove clauses from the Australian Constitution which discriminated against Indigenous Australians. The referendum also gave the Commonwealth Government the power to make laws on behalf of Aboriginal people. • 3 June (since 1992) Eddie Mabo Day - commemorating when the High Court’s Mabo judgment was handed down. • June (since 1993, usually the first of June) National Reconciliation Week celebrates the rich culture and history of the First Australians. • July (usually the first full week Sunday to Sunday) NAIDOC Week - celebrations are held across Australia to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous peoples. NAIDOC originally stood for ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee’. 4 [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required]

• 9 August International Day of the World’s Indigenous People. NOTE: 13 February 2008,“National Apology” is not to be confused with Sorry Day. The National Apology is another significant event in Australia’s history, where Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologised to Indigenous people for past wrongdoing at the 42nd sitting of Federal Parliament. Remember there are also local and state-based Indigenous celebrations, which need to be considered and sometimes acknowledged at a local level. 3.APPROPRIATE CEREMONIES This section will define the relevant ceremonies identified in the Protocol along with suggesting ways to determine what is appropriate, ways to negotiate a ceremony, relevant contacts and suggested wording. The primary ceremonies include:Welcome to Country; Acknowledgement of Country; Smoking Ceremonies and Dance Performances. 3.1. The ‘Welcome to Country’ A ‘Welcome to Country’ is where the Traditional Custodians welcome people to their Land. Steps should be taken to ensure that the appropriate representative is invited to perform the ‘Welcome’, because it is a significant recognition and a formal process. A `Welcome to Country’ should always occur in the opening ceremony of the event in question, preferably as the first item. The `Welcome to Country’ is traditionally conducted by representative(s) of the local Indigenous Custodians who welcome the delegates and all in attendance to the land in which you are meeting on. If there is uncertainty as to whether an ‘acknowledgement’ or `a welcome’ is appropriate, advice may be sought from the CSIRO’s Office of Indigenous Engagement. A ‘Welcome to Country’ may consist of a single speech by the representative of the local Aboriginal community, or it may also include a performance of some description. Performances may include a Traditional Welcoming Song, a Traditional Dance, a Didjeridoo/Yidaki performance or a combination of any of the above. In most communities, there are performing artists who are regularly available for such occasion. 3.1.1. Negotiating a ‘Welcome To Country’ One of the most significant practices for all parties is the capacity to show mutual respect for different cultural groups and their practices. It is important to understand that the meanings of ceremonies and acts of practices differ across region and locality. It is important that the Indigenous representative(s) be contacted by telephone (to be asked personally) and then through a formal letter of invitation. All arrangements thereafter for the ‘Welcome to Country’ should be mutually negotiated. It is very important that the Indigenous representative/s has been involved in, and is comfortable with, the arrangements.This may include the format of the ceremony, who should be invited, who should perform the ‘Welcome to Country’ and how that person will be recognised for their time and commitment. The process may not be simple; making the initial contact with the appropriate Traditional Custodians of the Country on which the meeting, event or function is to take place can incur some [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required] 5

degree of effort.The initial connection process is often the most problematic and can take some time. Observing Indigenous protocols will include allowing time for Traditional decision making and discussion among the Traditional Custodians. CSIRO Office of Indigenous Engagement Contacts: Phone: 61 2 9490 8184 or Phone: 61 7 3214 2646 3.2. The ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ An `Acknowledgement of Country’ is a means by which all people can show respect for Indigenous culture and heritage and the ongoing relationship the Traditional Custodians have with their Land. An ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ would be used at minor functions such as public lectures, in- house training, workshops, seminars and meetings. On such occasions, a Chair or Speaker may begin by Acknowledging that the meeting is taking place in the Country of the Traditional Custodians. For example: ‘I would like to acknowledge the Kamilaroi people who are the Traditional Custodians of the Land. I would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present of the Kamilaroi Nation and extend that respect to other Indigenous Australians who are present’. At major functions such as conferences, naming and/or opening ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, exhibitions and other functions where official guests and dignitaries are in attendance, it is important that the Welcome to Country is performed by an Elder (or a delegate) as the first item in the event. This symbolically welcomes participants and attendees to the land. The Welcome to Country can take the form of a speech or a performance. 3.2.1. Suggested Wording of an Acknowledgement of Country Examples of Acknowledgement of Country could be: Example 1. I would like to show my respect and Acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Land, of Elders past and present, on which this meeting takes place. Example 2. (requires some research on the ‘who’ prior to the event) I would like to Acknowledge the _______________ people who are the Traditional Custodians of this Land. I would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present of the_______________ Nation and extend that respect to other Aboriginals present. 3.3. Smoking Ceremony The ceremony aims to cleanse the space (of evil spirits) in which the ceremony takes place and to cleanse the participants, who are asked to take in the smoke that comes from the earth to protect them on that Country. Smoking ceremonies are conducted by Aboriginal people with specific cultural knowledge, i.e. what to burn – wood fungus, leaves, words to say and songs to sing. People are encouraged to walk through the smoke to cleanse their spirits. Given the significant nature of the ceremony, smoking ceremonies are usually performed at major events. 6 [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required]

Aboriginal people may request a smoking ceremony to cleanse a new work place that is opened, where culturally significant items are repatriated to Country, or where it is believed bad spirits exist. 3.4. Dance Performances Dancers can be used as part of a ‘Welcome’ ceremony. There are many professional Indigenous dance troupes and individuals across each state. Charges vary according to level of training, the size of the company, the nature of the dance required and whether the dancers charge by the hour or per performance. 4. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND PAYMENT CSIRO is bound by Australian laws governing intellectual property rights that include copyright, patents, plant breeders’ rights and trademarks. CSIRO acknowledges that Australian Intellectual Property laws do not currently grant property rights to the custodians, guardians and stewards of knowledge. However, CSIRO undertakes to recognise Indigenous Knowledge that may contribute to intellectual property being developed through research. In this way, research undertaken within the framework of this protocol must exhibit a commitment to the rights of Indigenous people with respect to: • freedom of expression of Indigenous Knowledge including the freedom to not express; • freedom to convey Indigenous Knowledge including the freedom to not convey; and • freedom to seek reward for and from their knowledge. Within this Protocol: • Indigenous Knowledge includes Indigenous ecological knowledge, cultural knowledge and traditional knowledge. • Intellectual and cultural property rights refer to Indigenous peoples’ rights to their heritage. • Heritage includes both tangible and intangible aspects of Indigenous cultures now and in the future, such as, but not limited to, languages, ecological knowledge, traditional knowledge, ancestral remains, human genetic material and cultural environment resources. • By working in accordance with this Protocol, CSIRO aims to ensure that the research we undertake provides mutual benefit to Indigenous peoples, their communities and CSIRO. 4.1. Payment – Fee for Service In providing cultural services such as Welcome to Country, artistic performances and ceremonies, Indigenous people are using their intellectual property. The CSIRO should make provision for those performing to be appropriately remunerated and/or assistance should be negotiated as a commercial agreement between the cultural service provider and CSIRO. In developing these agreements, some organisations such as the NSW Local Aboriginal Land Councils have a set price for ceremonies and a database of Elders who can undertake them. It is advised staff contact them prior to negotiating a price. [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required] 7

Other aspects to take into consideration include: • travel to and from the event – in more rural and remote areas, where transport is a major issue, consideration should be given in supplying appropriate transport (to and from the event) especially for Elders; • ensuring that healthy refreshments are provided for; and • the public profile of the event. 4.1.1. Payment Methods Payment for performers by CSIRO will be largely determined by internal procedures. Professional performers are to be asked to provide a tax invoice quoting an ABN number before payment can be made. Where an ABN cannot be provided, the service providers are to complete a statement by a Supplier form. This will ensure the earnings are not taxed at the highest margin of 48%. The Statement by a Supplier Form can be obtained by accessing the Australian Taxation Office website: www.ato.gov.au/content/downloads/nat3346.pdf. It is best if payments can coincide with the actual event. When making a booking ensure that a tax invoice is provided to CSIRO as soon as possible so that payment for the performance can be made without delay. 5. INDIGENOUS CULTURAL PROTOCOLS AND SENSITIVITIES CSIRO recognises and acknowledges that there are a significant number of Indigenous ceremonies and protocols that necessitate respect. Some of these ceremonies and protocols are sensitive and are not discussed or shared with the broader community. These must be observed and can include: • The practice of not mentioning the name of a deceased Indigenous person*, or displaying photographic images of a deceased person unless agreed to by the relevant family. • Sensitivity to knowledge that is specific to gender (commonly referred to as ‘Women’s Business’ or ‘Men’s Business’. • Appropriate acknowledgement of guest artists that are either from or supported by the local community. • In most cases, members of the Indigenous community will advise staff of intrusive behaviour and/or if they are not permitted to discuss the protocol or ceremony with staff because of age, gender, status or because staff do not belong to their Clan or Tribal Group. • If staff are in doubt, assistance should be sought in the first instance from CSIRO Indigenous Staff or The Office of Indigenous Engagement. If there is uncertainty with protocols or sensitivities, advice may be sought from the CSIRO’s Office of Indigenous Engagement, or from a local Land Council or Elders Group if the specific office has an existing relationship. *The period of mourning for a deceased Indigenous person referred to above is known as Sorry Business. 8 [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required]

6. INFORMATION AND LINKS CSIRO Office of Indigenous Engagement Phone: 61 2 9490 8184 or Phone: 61 7 3214 2646 www.csiro.au/org/CSIRO-Indigenous-Engagement--ci_pageNo-1.html Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) Lawson Cres, Acton, ACT (By post: GPO Box 553 Canberra ACT 2601 Australia). Telephone: 02 6246 1111 (International +61 2 6246 1111). Facsimile: 02 6261 4285 (International +61 2 6261 4285) The Aboriginal Australia wall map represents work carried out for the Encyclopaedia of Aboriginal Australia. Using the published resources available between 1988 and 1994, the map attempts to represent language, tribal or nation groups of Australia’s Indigenous peoples. www.aiatsis.gov.au/asp/map.html Reconciliation Australia Old Parliament House, King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600. PO Box 4773, Kingston ACT 2604 T +61 2 6273 9200 F +61 2 6273 9201 E [email protected] www.reconciliation.org.au/ National Native Title Tribunal Principal Registry, Level 4, Commonwealth Law Courts Building, 1 Victoria Avenue, Perth WA 6000. Telephone: (08) 9268 7272 Freecall: 1800 640 501, Facsimile: (08) 9268 7299, Email: [email protected] www.nntt.gov.au/Contacts/Pages/Contact_us.aspx Office hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTAR) Postal address: 522 Marrickville Road, Dulwich Hill NSW Tel: (02) 9564 0594 Fax: (02) 9564 0195 www.antar.org.au/antar_welcomes_new_indigenous_body [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required] 9

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APPENDIX 1 Map of Aboriginal Australia (2005,Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies -AIATSIS) Horton 1994 Indigenous Tribal Boundaries Map. Used by permission of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Can be purchased as PDF, JPG or wall map from AIATSIS at www.aiatsis.gov.au/research/language.html [Footer style if needed, delete in master page if not required] 11

REFERENCES For further information: Charles Sturt University. (2006) Welcome to CSIRO Office of Indigenous Country and Acknowledgement of Country Engagement: Guidelines and Protocols. Greg Davison CSIRO (2007) Indigenous Engagement Phone: (02) 9490 8184 Strategy. CSIRO. Email: [email protected] CSIRO (2009) Indigenous Research Jim Walker Engagement Interim Protocol. CSIRO. Phone: (07) 3214 2646 Email: [email protected] NSW Health (2005) Welcome to Country Protocols Policy. NSW Government. NSW Department of Education. (ND) Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country Guidelines and Protocols for Public Schools and TAFE NSW Institutes. AECG Inc. and the NSW Government.