AbSec recently welcomed community members to our South Coast Roadshow and Community Organisations Disaster Adaptation (CODA) Workshop at the Batemans Bay Soldiers Club. The gathering brought together representatives from Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Local Aboriginal Land Councils, local government, non-government organisations, community groups and community members for a morning of connection, learning and meaningful discussion on Yuin Nation.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Auntie Loretta for providing a heartfelt Welcome to Country and helping to create a culturally safe and welcoming space for everyone in attendance.
Representing AbSec on the day were Carlee Maccoll from our Policy and Advocacy team and Taliya-Via Tuiono from Strong Families Our Way team, who shared updates on AbSec’s work across the sector and facilitated discussions focused on strengthening outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.
Participants were provided with an overview of AbSec, including the work of our Strong Families Our Way program and the important advocacy and initiatives being led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across New South Wales.
The Roadshow also provided an opportunity to showcase several of AbSec’s recent initiatives, including:
- Know Your Rights – a new online resource supporting Aboriginal children, young people and families to better understand their rights and available supports.
- Leaving Care Hub – Life After the System – a dedicated online resource designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people transitioning from out-of-home care to independent living.
A key component of the day was the Community Organisations Disaster Adaptation (CODA) Workshop, which encouraged participants to share their experiences, insights and ideas about disaster preparedness, response and recovery within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The discussions were thoughtful, engaging and community-led, highlighting the importance of local knowledge, cultural leadership and community connection during times of crisis. Participants reflected on the challenges faced during recent disasters across the South Coast and identified opportunities to strengthen collaboration, communication and support systems for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities before, during and after disasters.
The workshop generated valuable feedback that will contribute to the broader CODA Project, ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and lived experiences are central to shaping future disaster resilience planning and community-led solutions.
AbSec is grateful to everyone who took the time to attend, contribute and share their knowledge throughout the day. The conversations, ideas and connections formed will help inform our ongoing advocacy and project work while strengthening relationships across the region.
Together, we continue to build stronger outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.
