Cultural Context

As an organisation we believe that the present status of Aboriginal people cannot be understood without reference to the historical context. Therefore, KARI acknowledges the impact of past welfare policies and practices of government on Aboriginal communities brought about in particular by the forced removal of children from their families, the planned separation of sibling groups and cultural assimilation practices. The impact of such a sustained process of dislocation from land, community, family, cultural and spiritual roots on generations of children and young people continues to reverberate within contemporary Aboriginal communities and families as evidenced by the well documented levels of multiple disadvantage and in the over representation of Aboriginal children and young people within the child protection system. In this context we understand the fundamental importance of ensuring that cultural considerations form the cornerstone of all KARI strategic planning and service delivery.

KARI also recognises the diversity of what constitutes the Aboriginal community within the Metro South West Sydney region. Due to the nature of the region this diversity may involve differing perspectives on cultural ties, and levels of attachment to traditional beliefs and practices. However, in all circumstances we endeavour to recognise and cater for the specific individual cultural needs of each and every client of the organisation.

Statement of Cultural Commitment

As an Aboriginal community organisation KARI understands the importance and significance of ensuring that all services and program initiatives have a uniquely cultural focus. Indeed we believe that this is what distinguishes KARI best practice Aboriginal organisation.

Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that all KARI programs and services:

• Are provided for the benefit and betterment of the Aboriginal community of South Western Sydney;
• Promote and respect the cultural identity and connectedness of all Aboriginal participants;
• Recognise the unique cultural requirements of all participants;
• Are , as far as practicable, provided and coordinated by Aboriginal people or organisations;
• Are regularly reviewed and audited for cultural appropriateness by the KARI Cultural Committee;
• Are informed by, and based upon, the needs identified by our Aboriginal community;

This unique cultural focus is also apparent from an organisational perspective. As an Aboriginal organisation we are committed to ensuring that:

• All recruitment initiatives are targeted to securing the services of suitable skilled and qualified Aboriginal employees;
• That all Aboriginal staff are encouraged and supported in addressing their individual professional and cultural needs;
• That career pathways and succession plans are adopted in relation to all Aboriginal staff;
• All staff undertake ongoing cross-cultural awareness training.