Participants are invited to engage with an ancient story spanning more than 65,000 years and over 2,300 generations. The program explores the diversity of First Peoples’ communities and cultures, highlighting the richness and distinctiveness of each. Through this experience, participants will deepen their understanding of identity, strength, history, and the challenges faced in the past and present and consider how we can shape a shared future together.
Our program places you in a safe environment designed to spark open, meaningful conversation where people from every background are encouraged to engage, ask questions and connect.
Program format
- The program is designed in two parts, each around 2.5 hours long.
- You can choose to spread it over two days or enjoy it as a single, immersive 5-hour session.
- A 30-minute break is included to allow participants time for lunch.
- This program is designed for groups of 5 to 25 participants. If you have a smaller or larger group, please submit an enquiry and we’ll be in touch to discuss your requirements.
- The program is delivered onsite at the Melbourne Museum by one of our experienced Aboriginal Cultural Educators.
All inquiries and individual/group requests are welcomed.
Make an enquiry
To make an enquiry, please contact Kieran Stewart, Cultural program lead.
Email: culturalcompetencyFP@museum.vic.gov.au
Call: +61 3 7047 3442
Program content
- Getting to know Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their deep connection to Country
- Understanding Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country
- Learning why Elders are so important and the role they play in community and culture
- Building everyday cultural awareness, confidence, and cultural safety
- Using the right terminology — respectful, accurate, and inclusive language
- Recognising Victoria’s many Aboriginal nations, language groups, and cultural differences
- A look at life, culture, and community before colonisation
- Understanding how Aboriginal people lived, governed, and cared for Country for tens of thousands of years
- What happened when colonisation began — and why it still matters today
- The impact of government policies, including the Stolen Generations
- How history continues to affect health, wellbeing, and opportunity
- Stories of strength, survival, and resistance
- Making sense of the past to better understand the present
- Understanding First Peoples rights, self-determination, and sovereignty
- How First Peoples have fought — and continue to fight — for recognition and justice
- Treaty in Victoria and The Uluru Statement from the Heart: Voice, Treaty, and Truth
- Land rights, native title, and protecting culture and Country
- The importance of First Peoples voices in decisions that affect their communities
- How we can be better allies and support positive change
Outcomes
Our program will help you
- Understand Aboriginal history and culture in Victoria, gaining a deeper appreciation of its richness and diversity.
- Learn culturally safe practices, knowing how to engage respectfully with Aboriginal peoples.
- Recognise the impacts of colonisation and intergenerational trauma, and their ongoing effects on communities today.
- Be inspired to continue your learning, fostering appreciation and respect for Aboriginal culture.
