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Indigenous Acknowledgment

The Australian Redemptorists recognise the unique position of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people in our culture and history. We acknowledge the violence and discrimination of Australia’s history and the need to address the disadvantage and discrimination indigenous Australians continue to face today.

Bush-scene Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people are the original Custodians of the Land and we believe that this special position of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people needs to be recognised and incorporated into our mission on behalf of the Gospel.

The Australian Redemptorists accept that Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people have inhabited Australia for well over 50,000 years and that the culture and identity of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people is bound up with the land and sea. Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people have been the custodians of this Land, including all land occupied by the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer in Australia.

We Redemptorists respectfully acknowledge that:

  • The AWABAKAL People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Broadmeadow community resides
  • The BUNDJALUNG  People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Miami community resides
  • The BUNURONG  People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Brighton community resides
  • The THARAWAL  People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Kogarah community resides
  • The WAJUK People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our North Perth community resides
  • The WIRADJURI People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Galong community resides
  • The WURUNDJERI  People are the traditional Custodians of the land* on which our Kew community resides
For thousands of years you have lived in this land and fashioned a culture that endures to this day. And during this time, the Spirit of God has been with you. Your ‘Dreaming’, which influences your lives so strongly that, no matter what happens, you remain for ever people of your culture, is your only way of touching the mystery of God’s Spirit in you and in creation. You must keep your striving for God and hold onto it in your lives.
(Pope John Paul II, Alice Springs, November 29, 1986)

* These designations are based on our research and with the advice of indigenous consultants. We understand that there is ongoing exploration of these matters and developing understanding of them. Your input is always welcome.