WithRespect acknowledges the traditional owners of the land — the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations — and pays respect to their Elders both past and present.

WithRespect acknowledges and apologises to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia for the injustices and trauma suffered as a result of European settlement, the Stolen Generation and other policies, such as the forced removal of children from their families, communities, culture and land.

WithRespect recognises the significant impacts of this history and the fundamental importance of cultural traditions, beliefs and connection to country and land for the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people, families and their communities. We recognise Aboriginal culture, community connection, and self-determination are critical protective factors for wellbeing. We therefore are committed to focus on achieving health (including life expectancy) and education equality and responding appropriately to the welfare needs of Aboriginal children and families. This requires our efforts to urgently address disadvantage, including targeting the social determinants of poor health and wellbeing outcomes, and intergenerational experiences of trauma and to do this in a collective and respectful ways.