Some examples of an Acknowledgement of Country relevant to the UNSW Kensington main campus are:
“I would like to show my respects and acknowledge the Bedegal people who are the Traditional Custodians of the Land on which this meeting takes place, and to Elders past and present”.
“I would like to acknowledge the Bedegal people that are the Traditional Custodians of this land. I would also like to pay my respects to the Elders both past and present and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who are present here today.”
The more recent practice of acknowledging “emerging leaders” or “Elders past, present, and emerging” is generally not accepted practice in the Indigenous community and should not be used.
It is also acceptable for you to say your own words. You do not need to stick to a strict script. Often meaningful acknowledgements are more powerful and well received than perfunctory scripted acknowledgements. You could make the acknowledgment relevant to the event, the theme of the event, to the concept of welcoming people and recognising Indigenous culture, your childhood experiences, or adult experiences with Aboriginal culture. As long as the acknowledgment is meaningful and short, it is acceptable.
Acknowledgement of Country (all campuses):
UNSW respectfully acknowledges the Bidjigal clan of the Dharawal Nation, alongside the Biripai, Dharug, Gadigal, Gumbaynggirr, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri peoples, on whose unceded lands we are privileged to learn, teach and work. We honour the Elders of these Nations, past and present, and recognise the broader Nations with whom we walk together. UNSW acknowledges the enduring connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to culture, community and Country.
