National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day celebrated at Kulai

NATIONAL Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day was on Tuesday 4 August with communities across the country coming together to honour their strength, voice and deep cultural identity.

More than 200 children, including those from the Gummyaney Aboriginal Preschool in Grafton, Coffs Harbour’s Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School, and Kulai, joined families and community members in celebrating this year’s theme, “Little Footsteps, Big Future”.

Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC – National Voice for our Children (formerly Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care), said that Children’s Day plays a vital role in recognising, uplifting, and raising the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

SNAICC joined the community in celebrating at Kulai Preschool Aboriginal Corporation in Coffs Harbour on Gumbaynggirr Country.

“What we see at Kulai is what’s possible when children are surrounded by culture and community from the very beginning,” Ms Liddle said.

“Aboriginal community-controlled services more than educate, they empower children to be proud of their cultural identity, which is foundational as our children head into big school and beyond.

“We know that when children grow up strong in who they are, their futures are stronger as well.”

“Our 2025 Children’s Day Ambassador Otis Hope Carey, really exemplifies that story.”

A renowned artist and former professional surfer, Otis attended Kulai Preschool where his mother Aunty Julie Carey is Director.

“Our children carry the world’s oldest living culture,” Ms Liddle said.

“Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children is how we protect and grow that legacy.

“We celebrate on August 4 as it has historically been used to communally celebrate the birthdays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken from their families without knowing their birthday – the Stolen Generations.”

Ms Liddle welcomes the announcement of Wurundjeri and Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman Adjunct Professor Sue-Anne Hunter as Australia’s first National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

“We know she will bring a strong and fearless voice as National Commissioner.

“Having this announcement as we celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day highlights the importance of having our voices, especially the voices of our children, front and centre if we are to close the gap.”

Aunty Julie said it was a “fantastic day”.

“It was wonderful to see the community come together and see the Aboriginal organisations support the children and families.

“We thank SNAICC for helping make the day possible.”

By Andrew VIVIAN