Indigenous Services

Aboriginal peoples of the South West Region of Western Australia are known as Noongar peoples.  The territory around Albany is the traditional country of the Minang (spelt Meananger by Nind in 1831).  Aboriginal occupation of the South West Region of WA has been dated to over 50,000 years.

 

The Albany Aboriginal Accord continued to be implemented over the 2010-2011 year, fostering engagement with local Noongar people.  The Accord and Action Plan recognises the role that the City must play in the provision of services and facilities for the Aboriginal community 

Representatives of the City of Albany, the Albany Aboriginal community and the wider Albany community jointly developed and signed a Statement of Understanding and Commitment. The statement in part contained a commitment “to establish an Accord which will promote a greater understanding throughout the community of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people’s history and culture.”

The City of Albany Aboriginal Accord is an agreement between the City and its indigenous community. The Accord recognises Noongar people as the traditional owners of the land, raises awareness of their history and culture, and encourages reconciliation. It is the first such agreement in Western Australia and has proved to be a catalyst for similar agreements across the State.

The Aboriginal Accord Advisory Committee has acted as the primary reference group in the development of the Aboriginal Accord and Action Plan. The committees role is to oversee implementation of the Accord Action Plan and to make recommendations to the Council in relation to the accord and other indigenous issues.

The City of Albany Aboriginal Education Scholarship Scheme encourages local young Aboriginal people to continue with their education and training. Scholarships extend over a two-year period and the scholarship funds are used to offset the cost of books, fees and other student expenses.