Reconciliation Statement

The University recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have suffered many wrongs and injustices in the past and today, which have arisen from their oppression and dispossession of traditional lands.

In this context, the University of Wollongong acknowledges the Dharawal people, on whose land our Wollongong campus is located. Acknowledgment, as well as deep appreciation, is offered to the Nowra Local Aboriginal Lands Council and the Wandandian people for their role in supporting the establishment of our Shoalhaven campus. The Walbunga, Djirranganj, Gandangara and Eora people are also acknowledged as the traditional owners of our Bateman's Bay, Bega, Moss Vale and Sydney Centre sites.

This region has a proud tradition of cultural harmony. Migrants and students from many cultures have chosen to live, work and study here in the past and present. The Indigenous communities have earned enormous respect during their struggle for historical, social and cultural recognition. The University of Wollongong applauds and joins with the people of the Illawarra who have already pledged their commitment to the Reconciliation process through the Charter of the People of Wollongong.

This University will strive to create an educational environment which is genuinely inclusive of Indigenous perspectives and experiences, and which is free from all manifestations of racism. Opportunities will be sought to dispel negative stereotypes and prejudices and to encourage Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to walk together, to study and to work together with mutual respect and understanding.

As part of its commitment to the Reconciliation process, the University of Wollongong will:

• continue to develop strategies to increase the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff;
• continue in collaboration with Indigenous people the ongoing development and implementation of curriculum which includes recognition of Indigenous knowledge and experience;
• develop an organisational culture which values and respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and accommodates cultural differences wherever possible in the University's policies and practices;
• and establish relationships with Indigenous staff, students and community members based on the principles of social justice, equal partnership and equity.

The University of Wollongong supports the vision of the Reconciliation movement for "a united Australia which respects this land of ours; values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage; and provides justice and equity for all".