This December, the Centre of Excellence for Aboriginal Families Wellbeing celebrates one year of driving change and strengthening futures.
Since its launch in December 2023, the Centre has championed initiatives that aim to see Aboriginal children and families stay strong – physically, emotionally, spiritually and Culturally – and live in safe and supportive environments.
The Centre’s vision is clear: to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families enjoy the same opportunities as all Australian families while staying deeply connected to Community and Culture.
‘The last year has been busy, but there is still a long way to go to change the thinking and narrative to include families,’ says Director of the Centre for Excellence for Aboriginal Families Wellbeing Sheree Lowe.
‘It’s about understanding Aboriginal and cultural parenting models, including the importance of Culture as a protective factor.’
A year in review: The Centre’s major achievements
Providing perspective and advice to Aboriginal-led organisations and initiatives
Across 2024, the Centre worked in partnership with – and support of – other Aboriginal-led initiatives to improve Aboriginal families’ lives and outcomes.
It partnered with the Balit Durn Durn Centre to help finalise The Nest, a recommendation 33.4 from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.
The Nest is a groundbreaking framework designed to guide health services in delivering consistent, high-quality care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families needing intensive social and emotional support.
In addition, the Centre provided ongoing perspective and advice for Ngaweeyan Maar-oo – and several strategies and policies related to Aboriginal children and families.
Supporting the Ngaweeyan Maar-oo Victorian Aboriginal Early Years Summit
In June 2024, the Centre co-sponsored the Ngaweeyan Maar-oo Summit on Dja Dja Wurrung Country.
The event, spearheaded by Dr Jill Gallagher AO, called for urgent reforms to the child protection system. It highlighted the importance of cultural safety and community-led approaches in supporting Aboriginal families.
Family Fun Day on Aboriginal Children’s Day
August 2024 saw more than 160 boorai (babies and young children) and their families gather at Inflatable World for a Family Fun Day, celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. The event was a joyful showcase of connection and Cultural pride.
Looking ahead: Family Portraits Project and more
The Centre’s anniversary celebrations will continue with the launch of the Family Portraits Project. Running from December 2024 to January 2025, the initiative will honour the strength and diversity of Aboriginal families, capturing their stories and connection to Culture through powerful images.
As the Centre embarks on its second year, its commitment to Aboriginal children and families remains unwavering. The focus is on Cultural pride, family connection, and creating a future where every child and family can thrive.
‘We love celebrating the strength and diversity of our families and will continue this important work in the year ahead,’ Sheree said.
Featured image credit
‘Empowering Generations: Celebrating the Strength of Aboriginal Families’ by Djab Wurrong and Kirrae Wurrong artist Tarni Jarvis.
The artwork brings to life Jill Gallagher’s vision of the strength of generations spanning 65,000 + years. Aboriginal families, their ancestors and future generations are represented in this inspiring piece where culture is honoured and celebrated.
