In August 1963 members of the clan groups living in the area of Yirrkala sent these petitions to Parliament.
In 1963 the Yirrkala bark petitions were recognised by the Australian Parliament, and are thus the first documentary recognition of Indigenous people in Australian law. These are the first documents bridging Commonwealth law as it then stood, and the Indigenous laws of the land. These petitions from the Yolngu people of Yirrkala were the first traditional documents recognised by the Commonwealth Parliament and are thus the documentary recognition of Indigenous people in Australian law.
Read more here:
Join us as we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2025, 6 - 13 July, reflecting on the legacy of those who came before, to champion the strength of emerging young leaders, and to look to the future with active hope. Explore ways to engage, take action and join in prayer
Read more
Right now children as young as 10 are being arrested, charged, and imprisoned in Australia. Join us as we call on our nations leaders to #RaiseTheAge of criminal responsibility to at least 14 years of age.
Read more