How to write an authentic Acknowledgement of Country

How to Write an Authentic Acknowledgement of Country

Many people ask how to write an authentic Acknowledgement of Country and move beyond the scripted approach we so often hear. The starting point is simple: know and reflect the Country you are on, acknowledge the people of that place, and connect your Acknowledgement meaningfully to your event, workplace or purpose.

This offering can be delivered in two parts, depending on the level of practical application your organisation is seeking.

Part One — Understanding an Authentic Acknowledgement of Country

Part One is a high-level, presentation-style session designed to build understanding and confidence.

We explore the purpose of an Acknowledgement of Country, introduce examples of the many different ways an Acknowledgement can be delivered, and discuss how Country, audience, speaker and occasion can influence what is appropriate.

Participants are then introduced to an easy-to-follow formula for developing an Acknowledgement that connects Country and the people of that place with the purpose of the event, meeting or workplace.

The aim is not to provide another script to memorise. Instead, participants leave with a framework they can use to think about and develop an Acknowledgement that is respectful, relevant and authentic.

Duration: Up to 1 hour
Format: Presentation with examples and discussion
Audience: Suitable for groups from one organisation or business
Delivery: In-person preferred; travel quoted separately

Part Two — Applied Workshop: Bringing Your Acknowledgement to Life

Additional investment: $2,000 + GST

Part Two moves from understanding the framework to practical application within your organisation.

Using a range of workplace scenarios, we explore how an Acknowledgement can be adapted depending on the audience, location, speaker and purpose. Participants consider how they might approach an internal staff meeting differently from an executive presentation, public event, formal ceremony or meeting with Aboriginal Community.

Importantly, the core respect for Country and Community remains, while the language, emphasis and connection to purpose can change.

Through these scenarios, participants build confidence to move away from a single organisational script and instead communicate the organisation's purpose and values in a way that is appropriate to each setting.

As part of this workshop, Speaking in Colour can also provide a draft Acknowledgement of Country Protocols document for the organisation to further develop and implement.

Where time permits, we recommend involving members of the Communications team in this component. This provides an opportunity to begin working through how the protocols can be refined, communicated and practically implemented across the organisation.

Duration: Additional workshop session
Format: Scenario-based, practical and interactive
Resource: Draft Acknowledgement of Country Protocols document
Recommended participants: Communications and other staff responsible for organisational protocols, events and messaging
Delivery: In-person preferred; travel quoted separately

Duration: Up to 2 hours

Audience: Suitable for groups from one organisation/business at a time

Location: On site at your location

For sessions longer than 1 hour, we work towards helping you refine an Acknowledgement best suited for your workplace.

Cancellations: A cancellation fee of 50% of the cost will apply where less than three weeks’ notice is given. However, 100% of the cost will be charged where less than one week’s notice is given.

*Please note: Your quote is valid for 7 days and your booking date cannot be confirmed until your quote has been accepted.