Impact of disasters on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Improve your awareness of the connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, Country and wellbeing.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are the oldest in the world. Country, including the land, water and air is central to this. Knowledge of Country has assisted them to navigate the seasons, including natural hazards, for tens of thousands of years.
The resilience and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples improves when they feel connected to Country. It is important to keep this in mind. Not accounting for this can prolong healing after a disaster.
Why culture matters
The Ngunnawal people are the Traditional Custodians of the lands we now call the ACT. Their connection with these lands has helped them thrive here for over 25,000 years.
Country is central to Ngunnawal culture. Stories about Country convey knowledge about changes in the landscape, explain seasonal patterns and highlight important places. Ceremonies, art and song are how the community share these stories and keep their culture alive.
The strong connection Ngunnawal people have with Country, guides how they care for it. Cultural burning is one of the ways they do this. This is a traditional practice using fire to keep the plants and soil healthy. It also prevents bigger bushfires.
How disasters cause harm
The harm disasters can cause Country, and flow on effects such as access, affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These impacts are not often accounted for in disaster risk management and recovery, such as feelings of loss and grief when:
- sacred grounds are damaged
- people can’t walk on Country
- there are fewer cultural foods and medicines available
- opportunities for kinship and cultural connection are inhibited.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, these spiritual and cultural losses can be damaging to their health and wellbeing.
How to help
Working respectfully and inclusively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is key to building trust. Trust is central to successful community engagement and acceptance of support.
When planning for disasters
Respectful and inclusive approaches will:
- include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- ensure culture is respected and traditional knowledge is prioritised
- co-design learning materials and training programs
- share information in accessible ways, such as in traditional language.
During disasters
Respectful and inclusive approaches will:
- use people with cultural knowledge to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- share information via trusted community leaders
- keep messages relevant and easy to understand
- work with community to provide services that meet their needs.
After disasters
Respectful and inclusive approaches will:
- acknowledge the connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with Country
- work with community leaders to co-design health and wellbeing programs that reconnect community members with Country
- include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in plans to heal Country, prioritising traditional knowledge
- seek feedback and, with permission, record and share these learnings.