Aboriginal Reconciliation: What It Means and How Parents Can Support It
This week is National Reconciliation Week. A time for all Australians to reflect on our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The 2025 theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next’ calls on all Australians to step out together, to look ahead and continue the push forward in the shadow of past experiences.
Aboriginal reconciliation is the ongoing journey of building respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It acknowledges the truths of the past—including dispossession, the Stolen Generations, and systemic discrimination—while working toward healing, justice, and equality.
Parents and teachers of primary school children play a powerful role in shaping the values and attitudes our children carry into the future. One of the most important lessons we can teach is the value of respect, understanding, and reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—the First Nations of Australia.
Reconciliation is not just a national issue; it starts in our homes, schools, and communities. It’s about listening, learning, and growing together.
Why it Matters for Our Children
Children are naturally curious, empathetic, and open to difference. By introducing them to the ideas of reconciliation early, we help them -
- understand our shared history, including the impact of colonisation and the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- value diversity and culture, celebrating the oldest living cultures in the world.
- develop empathy and respect, learning to listen and stand up for what is right.
- become active citizens, encouraging a sense of responsibility for creating a fairer, more inclusive society.
How Parents Can Support Reconciliation at Home
1. Learn Together
You don’t need to be an expert to talk to your child about reconciliation. Learn together -
- reading age-appropriate books by Aboriginal authors.
- exploring First Nations stories, languages, and art.
- watching children’s programs that celebrate Aboriginal culture.
2. Talk Openly About History and Injustice
Children can understand complex ideas when explained thoughtfully. Discuss -
- that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived on this land for over 65,000 years.
- that they faced unfair treatment when others came and took their land without asking.
- why saying sorry and working together now is important.
Use simple, honest language, and encourage questions. For example…
“Did you know there were people living here long before this country was called Australia? They had their own stories, languages, and ways of living. Some of them were hurt and treated unfairly, and now it’s our job to help make things right.”
Be honest about what you don’t know. If your child asks something about which you don’t know the answer, that’s okay. Say, “That’s a great question—let’s find out together.” Learning with your child shows them that curiosity and respect go hand in hand.
3. Celebrate Aboriginal Culture
Support events like NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week by participating in local community events, visiting cultural centres, or doing art and craft activities inspired by Aboriginal styles. When we celebrate culture, we build pride and understanding.
Reconciliation is not a one-time event—it’s a lifelong commitment to understanding, respect, and unity. As parents and teachers, we have a unique opportunity to raise a generation of children who don’t just know about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, but who value their culture, acknowledge past wrongs, and actively contribute to a more inclusive future.
By planting these seeds early, we help our boys grow into thoughtful, compassionate Australians, ready to walk together in a spirit of truth and reconciliation.
Peter Grimes | Headmaster
