A note on language
The department acknowledges diversity and uses the terms ‘Indigenous’, ‘First Nations people’ and ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ interchangeably throughout our website. All terms are used with respect.
Workforce support and development
Within our department, we value the advice and lived experiences of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. We want diversity to be our strength.
Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy and Implementation Plan guides how we attract, recruit, retain and develop the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff within the department. The Workforce Strategy and Implementation Plan complements our department’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
DSS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025
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Reconciliation Action Plan
Access this resourceClosing the Gap
As part of the national effort to improve life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we are committed to implementing The National Agreement on Closing the Gap (the National Agreement).
The National Agreement focuses on improving health, education, employment, and other critical areas. We work with First Nations communities to ensure we amplify their voices and they have a say in the design and delivery of policies, programs and services that affect them.
Supporting Indigenous-led organisations
We recognise the vital role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations(Opens in a new tab/window) (ACCOs) play in delivering effective services.
We partner with these organisations to ensure that services are designed, implemented, and managed in a way that respects the principles of self-determination and community leadership. This approach is crucial for achieving sustainable and meaningful outcomes in First Nations communities.
Grants and funding opportunities
We offer a range of grants and funding opportunities to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. These grants fund initiatives that address key issues such as:
- gender-based violence
- crisis accommodation
- community-led prevention programs.
First Nations organisations are encouraged to apply for these grants to enhance their capacity to deliver effective and culturally sensitive services.