Why this matters  

The Northern Rivers Connecting with Country Framework seeks to help the RA embed cultural understanding into its work, ensure respect for local First Nations Knowledge and improve First Nations leadership in disaster recovery and planning in the Northern Rivers. 

The Framework will focus on key concepts:

• Country: Understanding what is Country

• Culture: Understanding and valuing culture

• Community: Embedding First Nations voice across project lifecycles

What’s happening?

Jagun Alliance will lead the engagement, inviting First Nations peoples living across Bundjalung, Yaegl and northern parts of Gumbaynggirr lands, to co-design the Framework concepts, commitments and actions.

• Stage 1 (Completed): Gatherings with cultural advisors and community leaders, informed by the Government Architect NSW Connecting with Country Framework, will help to create a draft Northern Rivers Connecting with Country Framework.  These include respecting Country, working in partnership, honouring cultural priorities, maintaining a local focus, supporting capacity building, and empowering First Nations people to continue to care for land, water and air through traditional practices. 

• Stage 2 (January-June 2025): Jagun Alliance will continue to connect with knowledge holders at broader community events and gatherings to seek feedback on the draft Northern Rivers Connecting with Country Framework. 

This is an opportunity for local First Nations people to guide the RA on how they work with First Nations communities on Country. The final Framework Northern Rivers Connecting with Country Framework will be provided to the RA for review after the stage 2 engagement.

Looking ahead 

Download a copy of the Northern Rivers Connecting with Country Framework Handout here.

This is a draft document and will continue to evolve with input.

Submit your feedback on the Framework here