Login
Login
Acknowledgement of Country
We honour the Gadigal people, sovereign custodians of the land on which we work, and pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise the rich cultures, customs and resilience of First Nations peoples on Gadigal Country, and on the many diverse First Nations lands and waters across NSW.
We acknowledge the spirit of the Uluru Statement from the Heart and accept the invitation to walk with First Nations peoples in a shared journey towards a better future.
Our vision for Reconciliation
At NCOSS, we work alongside our First Nations communities to champion justice, walk the path of reconciliation and push for a NSW that’s fair for everyone.
We acknowledge and embed First Nations culture in our work. First Nations peoples bring powerful culture, leadership and knowledge that continue to shape this land and we’re proud to stand alongside them.
Strong relationships are built by showing up, listening and learning. Together, we back advocacy, co-create initiatives, and share in bold ideas that drive real change.
Reconciliation Framework
These key principles shape our actions and keep us all accountable as partners in reconciliation.
Self-determination
First Nations peoples take the lead in decisions that affect them.
Empowerment
We help amplify First Nations voices, so they’re heard and valued.
Partnership
We build strong relationships with First Nations communities.
Collaboration
We work together and co-design solutions.
Respect and Reciprocity
We engage in open, honest and respectful ways.
Cultural humility
We continuously learn and are accountable in our approach.
Representation
We make sure First Nations voices are included in our decision making.
The work we’re doing
Leadership
We’re proud to have First Nations Directors on our Board, Their experienced and insightful voices bring vital leadership, lived experience and cultural perspective.
First Nations Partners and Advisory Group
Our First Nations Partners and Advisory Group (PAG) gives advice and support to NCOSS leadership providing oversight, monitoring and reporting on key actions, commitments and advocacy
Guiding principles for working alongside First Nations people
We created these Guiding Principles in 2024 to help improve the understanding of culture and help NCOSS staff understand how they should appropriately embed culture in their work. This document informs how we engage and communicate with First Nations communities.
Lived Experience Advisory Panel
We established our Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP) in 2023 to provide insights for NCOSS’s policy and advocacy efforts. Amir Bodenstein was a founding LEAP member and strong advocate for homelessness and sleeping rough.
In Amir’s memory we established the Amir Bodenstein Honorary Individual Recognition Award to recognise those continuing Amir’s tireless work to help better inform our advocacy.
If interested to learn more or join our LEAP, please contact us: advocacy@ncoss.org.au
