The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next is a powerful reminder that reconciliation is a shared journey grounded in truth and meaningful action. National Reconciliation Week encompasses National Sorry Day and Mabo Day.
The Foster Care Association of Victoria acknowledge the legacy of the Bringing Them Home report and the resilience of the Stolen Generations, whose stories continue to shape our understanding of the past and guide our responsibilities into the future.
Aboriginal children and young people continue to be significantly overrepresented in Victoria’s out-of-home care system. As of 2023, Aboriginal children are 21 times more likely to be living in care than non-Indigenous children which highlights the urgent need for continuing systemic change.
The FCAV is committed to walking alongside Aboriginal communities in the spirit of reconciliation. We recognise and support the vital role of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) in leading the care of Aboriginal children and young people. We stand firmly behind the principle of self-determination for culturally safe, community-led responses. While the recent budget allocated nearly $25 million to enhance the capacity of ACCOs to continue in their leading role, more needs to be done to establish Aboriginal-led child and family services that truly meet demand in the care of all First Nations children in home-based care.
To acknowledge National Reconciliation Week 2025, we had the honour of seeing the Bunjil Creation Dance Ceremony performed by Djirri Djirri dance group. The only Wurundjeri all female dance group, Djirri Djirri, performed 4 beautiful traditional dances including the Wurundjeri lyrebird (Buln-Buln) dance. Djirri Djirri means Willy Wagtail in Woiwurrung, the language of Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of Narrm (Melbourne) and surrounds. https://djirri-djirri.com.au/
We were also able to acknowledge National Sorry Day and #NRW2025 by hosting a giveaway gift pack competition from Jala Jala treats open to carer members. Jala Jala treats is a Supply Nation certified, 100% Aboriginal owned business in Victoria.
Finally FCAV staff attended a powerful performance by Amos Roach at Malvern Town Hall today, Mabo Day, 3 June. The session opened with a warm Welcome to Country by Uncle Colin Hunter, grounding the event in the spirit of respect and truth-telling and marking the historic High Court decision that recognised Native Title and honoured the legacy of Eddie Koiki Mabo. Amos Roach, a proud Ngarrindjeri/Gunditjmara man, shared his story through music—blending guitar, song, and storytelling in a way that spoke to identity, resilience, and deep ties to Country. His reflections on culture and intergenerational strength brought the room to stillness.
Bridging Now to Next challenges us to confront the unfinished business of reconciliation — to reckon with our shared history while forging a better path forward, together.
The FCAV is excited to continue to learn and grow the partnership with VACCA and The Victorian Alliance https://www.vacypalliance.org/ ACCOs running foster care programs around Victoria.
