First Peoples Communities and Culture
Campaspe Shire stands on land that has been cared for by First Peoples for tens of thousands of years. This Country holds the knowledge, culture, and enduring spirit of the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung, and Yorta Yorta peoples, the Traditional Owners of the land, waters, and skies across our region.
Their connection to Country is deep and ongoing, and their cultures are among the oldest continuing cultures on Earth. This legacy is visible across Campaspe, in places such as the Dungula (Murray River), Yakoa (Campaspe River) and Gaiyila (Goulburn River), Kow Swamp, Lake Cooper, and the Kanyapella Depression, all of which hold cultural and spiritual significance.
Campaspe Shire Council acknowledges the Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) that represent Country across the Shire:
We also respectfully acknowledge and recognise all Traditional Owner clans and families within these RAPs, whose unique histories, knowledge systems, and cultural practices continue to shape and care for this land. We honour their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community today.
As proud allies, Campaspe Shire Council is committed to truth-telling, cultural respect, and strong partnerships that support self-determination and reconciliation. We walk alongside First Peoples with humility, deep respect, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and culturally aware future for all.
This page offers insight into the rich Aboriginal history and cultural heritage of our region and outlines the steps Council is taking through our Reconciliation Action Plan and everyday practice to honour, learn from, and walk with First Peoples across Campaspe.
Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan
Campaspe Shire Council is proud to be developing its first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), an important step in our journey to build stronger, more respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the Campaspe region.
The Reflect RAP is part of a national framework created by Reconciliation Australia, supporting organisations to begin meaningful, structured action toward reconciliation. This first stage helps lay the foundations for deeper engagement, cultural learning, and collaboration with Traditional Owners and all First Peoples.
Our RAP is being developed by an internal working group and guided by input from Reconciliation Australia, as well as consultation with Traditional Owner groups including Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, Taungurung Land and Waters Council, DJAARA and other community leaders in Aboriginal health and wellbeing. The plan will help us strengthen connections with the First Peoples of the Campaspe region.
Early actions will focus on listening to and building respectful relationships with all First Peoples, strengthening partnerships with local Aboriginal organisations and leaders, and ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are integrated into our work. We will also review our internal practices and create ongoing opportunities for cultural learning — not just during key events like NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week, but through everyday collaboration on events, plans, and strategies.
By developing this Reflect RAP, Campaspe Shire Council is demonstrating our commitment to walking together with First Peoples — with respect, honesty, and a shared vision for a more inclusive future.
Cultural Heritage
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage is a vital part of the identity and connection of First Peoples to their land. It includes not only physical sites like sacred places and artefacts but also the stories, traditions, and knowledge passed down through generations.
Campaspe Shire Council is committed to protecting and respecting Aboriginal cultural heritage in partnership with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal organisations. This involves understanding, managing, and preserving significant cultural sites and knowledge.
Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMPs)
A Cultural Heritage Management Plan is required to assess and protect Aboriginal Cultural Heritage during development or land-use changes.
Land Use Activity Assessment (LUAA)
A Land Use Activity Assessment ensures that any proposed activity on land is assessed for potential impacts on Aboriginal cultural heritage.
First Peoples Assembly and Treaty for Victoria
The First Peoples Assembly of Victoria is leading the process for a treaty with the Victorian Government, aiming to improve recognition, rights, and self-determination for Aboriginal people.
Why Cultural Heritage Matters
Respecting Aboriginal Cultural Heritage is an essential part of reconciliation and helps protect the deep, ongoing connection First Peoples have with their land. It’s a responsibility we all share to ensure that cultural practices, knowledge, and heritage are preserved for future generations.
For more information please refer to:
Protocols Guide and Policies
Campaspe Shire Council is committed to respectful, culturally sensitive engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our Protocols Guide and policies ensure that our actions and communications align with these values.
Our Protocols Guide outlines the appropriate ways to engage with First Peoples, including:
- Acknowledging Traditional Owners
- Using respectful language
- Understanding cultural ceremonies and events
These guidelines support staff and the wider community in fostering respectful relationships.
Our policies ensure that the rights and cultural practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are respected in all Council activities and guide our efforts towards reconciliation, cultural safety, and equal opportunities.
Recognising Traditional Owners Policy(PDF, 198KB)