Acknowledgement of Country
Brisbane Catholic Education recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples as the First peoples of Australia. We acknowledge the many traditional Countries within the Archdiocese of Brisbane. We respectfully acknowledge the Yuggera/Jagera, Turrbul, Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi, Munujarli, Quandamooka, Ugarapul, Yugambeh, Butchulla / Budjala, Bundjalung, Wakka Wakka and Kombumerri Traditional Custodians of the lands where Brisbane Catholic Education offices and schools are located.
We pay our respects to Elders past and present and we acknowledge the ongoing commitment of these Custodians to Catholic education within our schools. Brisbane Catholic Education understands the deep connections that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with the lands, seas and waterways of Southeast Queensland and the Torres Straits.
We recognise the cultures, histories and diversity within our communities, and we honour the ongoing stewardship First Nations people have with the environment.
We commit to ongoing reconciliation with First Nations peoples and strive for cultural safe workplaces and schools.
Look up, Look down, Look all around
From the North to the South
From the East to the West
The land on which we stand is Yuggera land
Yuggera, Jagera, Ugarapul and more
Our shared heritage a treasure to explore
In unity we celebrate the stories we share
With respect for elders past and present
From north to south from east to west
On Yuggera land, we’re at our best.
First Nations Club
Our First Nations Club is dedicated for students with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage to connect, share, and celebrate their culture. The club provides opportunities for students to engage in group activities, cultural immersions, and excursions that deepen understanding of First Nations traditions and histories. It also serves as a platform for cultural exchange, where students can share stories, art, and language with peers, fostering respect and inclusion across the school community.
Celebrating Culture and Building Awareness
The club plays an important role in promoting reconciliation and cultural pride through events such as NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week, as well as participating in First Nations Literacy programs. Activities may include traditional art workshops, dance and music sessions, storytelling circles, and visits to culturally significant sites. These experiences help students strengthen their identity, build confidence, and educate the wider school community about the richness of First Nations culture. By creating a supportive environment, the club encourages leadership, cultural continuity, and a sense of belonging for First Nations students.
Molum Sabe Education Strategy
Molum Sabe (The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Strategy 2023-2025)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students fully engage and thrive as learners when their spirituality, histories and cultures are honoured and valued. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students become active learners when trust and respect are visible and embedded in the school community. Students become strong and confident in their identity and capacity to achieve when high
expectations are set by themselves, their families, schools, and communities.
Brisbane Catholic Education recognises the importance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to see their identities reflected in the school environment and curriculum and for all students to deepen their understanding and valuing First Nations histories, cultures, identities and spirituality as the world's oldest continuous living cultures. Within our extensive work across our many schools and offices, we are committed to embedding essential aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures that all Australians should know through Australian Curriculum V9.
Ngutana-Lui Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Studies Centre
The Ngutana-Lui Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Studies Centre was established in 1989 by Brisbane Catholic Education in conjunction with the Aboriginal and Islander Catholic Council and the local community.
The Centre is located in the Moreton Region about 15 kilometres south west of Brisbane in the grounds of St Mark's Parish, Inala.
The aims of the Centre are to promote reconciliation, through education and to develop and enhance cultural knowledge, understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Website: Ngutana-Lui Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Studies Centre Phone: (07) 3033 7222
Brisbane Catholic Education. (2023).
Reconciliation Action Plan 2023–2025: Commitment to genuine and sustainable reconciliation.