Welcome to Country speeches are a meaningful tradition in Australia that pay respect to the traditional custodians of the land on which an event is taking place.
These speeches, given by Indigenous Elders or representative, acknowledge the enduring connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to their lands and waters.
Whether you’re organizing a corporate conference, a community gathering, or a school assembly, a Welcome to Country speech sets the tone for your event and shows respect for Indigenous culture.
In this article, we’ll explore several example Welcome to Country speeches of varying lengths that you can draw inspiration from for your next event.
Welcome to Country Example Speeches
Before we dive into the example speeches, it’s important to note that a Welcome to Country should always be given by a recognized Indigenous Elder or representative from the local area.
If you’re unsure who to approach, contact your local Indigenous land council for guidance.
Now, let’s look at some sample speeches.
Short Welcome to Country Speech
Yaama. Ngaya yiradhu Wiradjuri. Hello, I am from Wiradjuri country.
I acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we gather today, the Wiradjuri people. I pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here today.
Thank you for the opportunity to Welcome you to Wiradjuri Country. We are honored to have you here, and we hope your time on our lands is meaningful and enriching. Mandaang guwu.
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This short Welcome to Country speech is suitable for brief events or as an opening to a larger event. It acknowledges the traditional custodians, pays respect to Elders, and extends a warm welcome to all attendees.
Medium-Length Welcome to Country Speech
Wominjeka. I acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we meet today, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. I pay my respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognize their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture.
We gather today on land that was never ceded. This land, known to the Wurundjeri people as Naarm, has been cared for by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of generations. Their stewardship has nurtured the land and sustained unique cultures and ways of life.
As we come together today, let us remember the history of this land and the ongoing resilience of Aboriginal peoples. Let us also commit to working together towards reconciliation, understanding, and mutual respect between all Australians.
Thank you for your presence here today. We hope your time on Wurundjeri Country is enriching and thought-provoking. Wominjeka.
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This medium-length Welcome to Country speech is appropriate for events where you want to provide more context about the traditional custodians and their connection to the land. It touches on themes of resilience, reconciliation, and shared commitment to understanding.
Long Welcome to Country Speech
Niina marni. Greetings and welcome.
I acknowledge that we are gathering today on the traditional lands of the Kaurna people. I recognize the Kaurna people as the original custodians of the Adelaide Plains and pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. I extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here today.
The Kaurna people have cared for this land for tens of thousands of years through their cultural and spiritual connection to country. They have a deep understanding of the land, its seasons, its resources, and its stories. Despite the impacts of colonization, the Kaurna people have shown incredible resilience in maintaining their culture, language, and connection to country.
As we gather here today, it’s important for us to reflect on this history and consider how we can all contribute to a future of greater understanding, respect, and partnership between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This starts with learning, listening, and being open to different perspectives and ways of knowing.
We are grateful for the opportunity to meet, work, and learn on Kaurna land today. We acknowledge the generosity of the Kaurna people in welcoming us to their country, and we commit to treating this land and its people with respect.
Ngaityalya tampinthi. Thank you for being here and listening. Enjoy your time on Kaurna country.
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This long Welcome to Country speech is suitable when you want to provide a more in-depth acknowledgement of the traditional custodians, their history, resilience, and the importance of ongoing learning and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It’s a good choice for significant events, conferences, or gatherings focused on themes of reconciliation or Indigenous issues.
Lengthy Welcome to Country Speech
Jingi Walla. Hello and greetings to everyone gathered here today on the traditional lands of the Yugambeh language speaking people. I pay my respects to the Elders past, present, and emerging, and acknowledge their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. I extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here today.
The Yugambeh language speaking people are the traditional custodians of the land stretching from the Tweed River, down to the Logan River, and west to the Scenic Rim. This region has always been home to the Yugambeh people, who have cared for it with knowledge and spirit for thousands of generations.
When Lieutenant James Cook sailed the HMS Endeavour along this coast in 1770, he and his crew encountered and were welcomed by the Yugambeh people, the Kombumerri, who have always been recognized as the saltwater people. The Kombumerri have a deep and spiritual connection to the ocean, and have traditionally relied on the sea for sustenance and cultural practices.
We have much to learn from the centuries of wisdom held by the Yugambeh people and other Indigenous communities. Their knowledge of living sustainably on the land, caring for country, and maintaining balance in the ecosystem holds valuable lessons for us all, especially in this era of climate change and environmental challenges.
It’s a privilege to live, work, and gather on this land, but it comes with a responsibility – a responsibility to honor the custodians, to respect their cultures, and to work together towards healing, understanding, and a more equitable future for all.
We are grateful for the generosity of the Yugambeh people in welcoming us to their country today. Let us move forward with open hearts and minds, ready to listen, learn, and walk together on the path towards reconciliation.
Thank you all for being here today. Please enjoy your time on Yugambeh Country, but remember to tread gently and with respect. Nyahmbu yey. Thank you.
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This lengthy Welcome to Country speech is appropriate for significant events where you want to provide a comprehensive acknowledgement of the traditional custodians, their history, and the importance of learning from Indigenous wisdom in the face of contemporary challenges. It emphasizes themes of responsibility, respect, and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Conclusion
A Welcome to Country speech is a powerful way to show respect for Indigenous custodians and set a tone of acknowledgement and inclusion at your event.
By drawing inspiration from these example speeches and working with local Indigenous Elders or representatives, you can craft a Welcome to Country that is meaningful, respectful, and resonant.
Remember, a Welcome to Country is more than just a formality – it’s an opportunity to learn, to build understanding, and to contribute to the ongoing journey of reconciliation in Australia.
As you plan your next event, consider how you can incorporate a Welcome to Country in a way that is authentic, respectful, and impactful.