Our Lady's College

Our Lady’s College acknowledges Australia's First Peoples  custodianship, sovereignty and spiritual connection to the Land.  We recognise the Jagera and Turrbal peoples and their Elders, and their connection to this Land on which we live and learn.  

Aligning with our Josephite heritage, we "recognise, value and respect Australia's First People,  as a people of a unique cultural heritage and spirituality, enriched by thousands of years of belonging to, and knowing this land, as mother."  (1999 Sisters of St Joseph Letter of Apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples).  

As a community we accept the need for truth-telling between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the wider community. We express sorrow for past injustices and stand in solidarity with First Nations communities to overcome the ongoing impacts of these injustices.  We will work towards a shared future, where all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' stories are heard and acknowledged.  

 We will strive to nurture authentic reconciliation based on mutual understanding, inclusion and justice.  We commit to fostering relationships with local First Nations’ peoples, increasing knowledge within our curriculum opportunities and building awareness through shared celebrations and inclusive iconography. We will continue to ensure First Nations students and all students are provided with equal and equitable opportunities to support their personal growth and meet their desired outcomes.        

We go forward in the spirit of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, and her desire for inclusivity and justice, recognising how "great is the strength we possess in our unity." (Mary MacKillop 1874)