First Nations Australians

Australian Sailing acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country on which we live, work and play. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their Elders, past, present and emerging, and acknowledge their continuing relationship to the rivers, lakes, waterways and oceans on which we sail.

Australia is made up of hundreds of diverse First Nations communities, each with their own culture, language, beliefs and practices. First Nations Australians were the first mariners in Australia, and their maritime history is rich and diverse.

Clubs and class associations can play an important role in recognising First Nations cultures, building relationships with local communities and creating welcoming opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to participate in sailing.

Supporting First Nations Inclusion

Clubs and class associations can take practical steps to recognise First Nations cultures and strengthen connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Build relationships with local communities

Learn about the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where your club operates.
Build respectful relationships with local Elders, Traditional Custodians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.
Seek guidance from local communities when planning cultural activities, events or participation programs.
Explore opportunities to work with First Nations organisations, schools and community groups to introduce more people to sailing.

Create welcoming participation opportunities

Promote introductory sailing activities and learn-to-sail programs through local First Nations networks and community organisations.
Consider barriers to participation, including costs, equipment, transport and access to information.
Consult with communities about how sailing programs can be designed to meet local interests and needs.
Create opportunities for ongoing involvement in sailing, including recreational participation, racing, coaching, officiating and volunteering.

Recognise and celebrate First Nations Cultures

Consider including an Acknowledgement of Country at club meetings, events, presentations, regattas and any other events held at your club or class association.
Where appropriate, invite Traditional Custodians to deliver a Welcome to Country at significant events.
Recognise the cultural and historical connections between First Nations peoples, waterways and sailing.
Work with local First Nations artists and communities to incorporate cultural perspectives into club activities, events and communications respectfully.

Educate and support club members

Encourage coaches, officials, volunteers and members to learn about local First Nations histories, cultures and connections to Country.
Use respectful language and challenge racism, discrimination and stereotypes.
Provide opportunities for club members to learn from local First Nations communities and cultural educators.
Ensure cultural acknowledgements and activities are undertaken respectfully, with appropriate guidance and permission where required.

Case Studies

Explore examples of how sailing clubs and events have recognised First Nations cultures and strengthened connections with local communities.

Logo for South Australian Women Keelboat Regatta

Celebrating Culture and Inclusion at the Hansa Class Asia Pacific Championships

Further Information

Explore these resources for practical guidance on acknowledging Country, engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and developing inclusive sporting environments.

Welcome to Country

Understand cultural protocols and learn how to respectfully acknowledge Traditional Custodians at your clubs events.

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Policies and Practice: Aboriginal People

Explore guidance to help sporting organisations develop inclusive policies and engage Aboriginal communities at your club.

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Acknowledgement of Country

Learn how to deliver meaningful, place-specific acknowledgements that recognise First Nations peoples and connections to Country.

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First Nations Australians Resources

Discover practical strategies and examples to help clubs increase participation and inclusion of First Nations communities.

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Sports Inclusion for Indigenous People

Explore research and resources to improve sporting access for Indigenous women and people with disability.

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Removing Barriers to Participation

Understand participation barriers and find strategies to create welcoming, inclusive sporting environments.

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