29/04/2026
A Welcome to Country isn't a political statement, it's a demonstration of generosity and respect from the world's oldest living culture.
It is a sacred cultural practice that remains an important tradition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to this day.
Since time immemorial, our people have welcomed others onto Country and been welcomed in return. Before colonisation, Australia was not one country, but hundreds; each with their own customs, languages, spiritual beliefs, cultural practices and identity.
Performed by a member of the Traditional Owner group of the land on which the ceremony is held, a Welcome is an invitation to enter and pay respects to the land, water, sky and people. The ceremony itself includes a verbal welcome, but could also include a smoking ceremony as well as song and dance. It offers those who live or travel on Country safe passage and spiritual protection.