Adelaide Hills Reconciliation Working Group

The Adelaide Hills Reconciliation Working Group (AHRWG) is a regional reference group that assists the Adelaide Hills and Mount Barker District Councils to develop and implement their Reconciliation Action Plans. It also provides general advice on matters that impact the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

There are about 760 residents in the Adelaide Hills region who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (2021 Census, 278 Adelaide Hills Council, 483 Mount Barker District Council). The councils of this region recognise that the Aboriginal heritage and living culture of First Nation Peoples is a fundamental part of our district and thriving communities.

Reconciliation

Reconciliation is about Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians talking, walking, and working together to overcome the reasons for division and inequality between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians.

Reconciliation is a nationally recognised approach to:

Recognising and celebrating Aboriginal culture and contributions
Building and strengthening our engagement with the Aboriginal community
Acknowledging the impact of the past for Aboriginal people
Building a future together

“As Australians, we are all here, woven into this country. As part of our reconciliation journey, there are truths to tell, stories to celebrate, and relationships to grow. Reconciliation is at the heart of our nations’ future” – Reconciliation Australia

Reconciliation Australia is the lead body for reconciliation in Australia. We inspire and build relationships, respect and trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
Reconciliation SA is the state’s leading body dedicated to building respectful relationships between Aboriginal people and the wider South Australian community for the benefit of all. Connect with Reconciliation SA to explore statewide initiatives, educational programs, and support for the reconciliation journey in South Australia.

For everyone

Reconciliation is not a niche topic; it is relevant to all people:

Peramangk and Kaurna traditional custodians
Non-Aboriginal people who live and work in the area
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who live and work in our area

The AHRWG will use the Adelaide Hills and Mount Barker District Councils’ websites to share information and resources with the general public. We welcome community interest and feedback.