First Nations educators, system leaders, staff in youth/education focused organisations, learners and community members from across the country are coming together to help improve First Nations education outcomes, as part of a national consultation process led by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC).
NATSIEC says the consultations aim to inform the development of the new national First Nations Education Policy (FNEP), "bringing the voices of mob directly into conversations about what meaningful, culturally safe education looks like in classrooms, systems and communities".
Sharon Davis, a proud Bardi and Kija person and NATSIEC chief executive, said First Nations people have long called for change.
"There has not been a national First Nations education policy since the Aboriginal Education Policy in 1989, and this moment asks whether we are ready to learn from history rather than repeat it," they said.
"For the first time in a long time, First Nations children and young people have a genuine opportunity to shape a national education policy that reflects their realities, strengths, and aspirations. These consultations are about deep listening, our way, so we can tell governments clearly and collectively what our communities have been saying for generations.
"Education reform only works when it starts with truth telling, including being honest about what has not worked and taking real accountability and action to change course."
The NATSIEC head said First Nations educators, families, and young people are "not voices on the margins of this work".
"They are the experts, and this policy must reflect that reality. Our people are the first educators. We know what works. It is time for governments and education systems to listen and act," Davis said.
"We are deeply grateful for the leadership and generosity of First Nations people who continue to give their time and knowledge. We also know our people are tired of talking. Elders have been saying the same things for generations.
"Our words can no longer be optional. The lives of First Nations children and young people are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously."
Workshops are being held both online and in-person, creating opportunities for participation from First Nations people in metropolitan, regional and remote communities across Australia.
Davis said governments must do more to ensure education settings support First Nations learners to thrive.
"A national policy must work across early childhood, schooling, and post-school pathways because First Nations learners move through education as whole people, not as disconnected stages. This work is about creating the conditions for First Nations learners to thrive with confidence, safety, and pride in who they are, and to become the ancestors our communities need them to be," they said.
"When First Nations people lead policy design, the outcomes are stronger, more grounded, and far more likely to deliver lasting change. This policy is about shifting the centre of gravity in education so First Nations learners are recognised, respected, and supported in systems that have too often treated our knowledges, strengths, and perspectives as optional. This is beyond what is nice to include.
"This is about shaping an education system that causes no harm to First Nations learners, and in doing so, works better for all children and young people living on unceded lands."
First Nations educators, education workers, workers in youth-focused organisations and community members are encouraged to get involved. Registrations are now open online.
