NAIDOC 2022 – Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!

NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This Year's theme, Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities fighting for change and working towards treaties and reconciliation. The theme calls on people to amplify their voices and narrow the gap between aspiration and reality, good intent and outcomes.

Voices in Parliament

The WA Parliament has had representation by Indigenous people including the former treasurer, Ben Wyatt, MLA. Ernie Bridge was the first Indigenous person to win a seat in the WA Parliament when he was elected to the seat of Kimberly in 1980. It was then held by Indigenous women, Carol Martin and Josie Farrer. The seat is now held by another Indigenous woman, Divina D'Anna MLA. In 2021, Rosie Sahanna became the first Indigenous person elected to the Legislative Council.

Language in Parliament

Josie Farrer, former MLA for Kimberley, a Gidja woman, spoke her native language in the WA Parliament on a number of occasions. Josie Farrer speaking in her native language. (Gidja of the East Kimberley region.) - YouTube .

Art in Parliament

Opened in 2004, the Aboriginal Peoples Room and Gallery established a unique space to recognise the state’s First Peoples heritage and culture. View Parliaments Aboriginal Art Collection.

Engaging with Parliament

Aboriginal Teacher and Student workbooks provide a culturally responsive and engaging resource for Aboriginal English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) students from remote and regional areas who are not able to visit Parliament House.