Given that the process of learning is as important as what is learned, the video Sharing our stories: building partnerships for change, is an exemplar of how to work in a collaborative environment with Traditional Custodians to develop Aboriginal curriculum content that becomes a journey of discovery for all.

By allowing Aboriginal culture to shape the resource, and developing flexibility in the process, Deakin University participants along with local Traditional Custodians discuss the importance of building strong relationships on both a professional and personal level.

This video can guide academic and professional staff who may wish to develop similar types of content in the future. It offers Deakin staff, and ultimately students, an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of cultural considerations when working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Sharing our stories: building partnerships for change

A transcript may be downloaded here: Sharing our stories—building partnerships for change (DOCX 21KB)

yaneekan-werreeyt in Wadawurrung language means ‘journey’, and that is exactly what Deakin University social work students embark upon when they navigate this innovative social work simulation resource. The interactive online tool provides a unique insight into working alongside alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families involved with the child protection system. With links to important Indigenous history, policy, legislation, services and background which is important to the Wadawurrung people, students learn practice that is culturally responsive, safe, inclusive, respectful and sensitive.

The key feature of yaneekan-werreeyt is a series of videos (captioned or audio-described) that follow the journey of ‘James’, a young Aboriginal boy who was removed from his mother and placed in the care of his father, a move that enabled him to maintain a connection to his culture and land. These videos place the student in the room with James during art therapy sessions, and offer a first-person journey with James’ mother Evelyn as she negotiates mental health issues, family violence, drug addiction and disconnection from her son.

The simulation draws on the world views and culture specific to the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Deakin’s Geelong campus sits, the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation. The experiences expressed are specific to the Wadawarrung people, who were involved in every aspect of the project, and it is important to recognise that local culture will change depending on the location.

An important role of social work is engaging ethically and productively in the professional context and with diverse communities and cultures in a global context. yaneekan-werreeyt guides students in how to apply social work practices that are congruent with worldviews and ingrain values and priorities of the Kulin Nation, and demonstrates implications of this for working with people from other Aboriginal nations.

The resource was developed by Deakin University’s School of Health and Social Development, Institute of Koorie Education and Deakin Learning Futures, in consultation with Aboriginal communities and key stakeholders in Geelong.

Tree of life, by artist Corrina Eccles

One of the resources in yaneekan-werreeyt is the ‘Tree of life’, created by artist Corrina Eccles. Trees were, and are, an important part of Aboriginal culture and survival and this narrative and visual tool helps students become more culturally safe and effective when working with Aboriginal children and their families. It offers insight into their cultural journey, identity and connection. The roots of the tree reflect their Aboriginal culture (to land and ancestry); the trunk grows, like a child and their family; and branches show the importance of significant others, strengths and talents.

Our key message to anyone beginning the process of working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is always put relationships first. Take time to be present at important events and participate as much as possible in community and cultural activities. Ensure you are not there just to achieve your own agenda. Also, be aware of taking your time with all aspects of working together and avoid hemming people into tight timelines. All work needs to be process as opposed to outcome driven in order to be culturally responsive and appropriate. Remember also that just like the expert knowledge of any other professional, it is important to financially compensate those who give their time and knowledge to you. Therefore, ensure you build appropriate payment for cultural consultation into your budget.

If you are viewing the yarning video discussing the process we used to create yaneekan-werreeyt, view it several times keeping an open mind to what is being said. You will notice there is more than one way to connect . . . be patient and start with relationships and the rest will follow.

By Jodie Satour and Sophie Goldingay

Bennett, B & Zubrzycki, J 2003, 'Hearing the stories of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social workers: challenging and educating the system', Australian Social Work, vol. 56, pp. 61 – 70.