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3. Know the Elders

Elders are respected members of the Aboriginal community with whom their community rely upon to give advice and pass on knowledge. The traditional meaning of an Aboriginal Elder is someone who has gained recognition within their community as a custodian of knowledge and lore and who has permission to disclose cultural knowledge and beliefs

In some Aboriginal communities there may be individuals who are Recognized Elders. These are people who are respected by the Aboriginal community as Elders but have not necessarily undergone traditional initiation ceremonies.

When working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, Service providers need to get to know the Elders and other key Indigenous contacts in Government and non-Government departments. It is important to take time in establishing credibility within the Aboriginal community by building trust and respect and demonstrating that you are there to get to know and assist their community. Each community is different with its own protocols and these should be respected. You can get to know your Aboriginal community by attending and supporting Indigenous events such as NAIDOC Week celebrations, Reconciliation Week activities and introducing your Service to the local Aboriginal Land Council.