Reconciliation in action at Wellways
At Wellways, reconciliation is not something we talk about in isolation. It is something we actively practice. This happens through meaningful opportunities for connection, cultural learning and truth-telling across the organisation.
One of the ways this comes to life is through our annual On-Country Cultural Summit. The Summit brings together First Nations team members from across Australia. It is a time for cultural learning, connection and reflection on Country.
Now in its fourth year, the Summit is a cornerstone of Wellways’ reconciliation journey. It reflects our commitment to creating a culturally safe workplace. It also supports First Nations employees to strengthen cultural identity and deepen connection to Country and community.
Learning on Country, guided by Traditional Owners
Each year, Wellways hosts the Summit in a different region across its service footprint. This reflects the diversity of the communities where the organisation works.
The location is chosen in partnership with the Traditional Owners of that Country. Elders and Custodians guide cultural learning and knowledge-sharing throughout the program.
Participants learn directly from Elders while on Country. They hear local histories, cultural knowledge and stories of connection between people and place. These experiences build understanding across the organisation. They also strengthen professional and personal networks between First Nations staff from different regions.
Uncle Warren sharing knowledge of Country
Shared cultural immersion with local allies
The Summit also creates space for shared learning. Wellways invites local allies, including non-Indigenous staff from nearby services and programs, to join a dedicated day of cultural immersion.
This brings people together across different lived experiences. It also supports shared understanding while recognising that participants are at different points in their learning journey.
For allies, the experience offers time to listen, reflect and learn from First Nations voices, culture and knowledge in a supported environment.
For First Nations staff, the Summit provides a culturally safe space to connect with Elders. It supports learning that is grounded in cultural authority and connection to Country and community.
Truth-telling and lived experience
The Summit also creates space for truth-telling and reflection. Employees share personal stories and lived experience in a respectful environment.
These conversations explore both the impacts of colonisation and stories of strength, survival and resilience. They help deepen understanding of how history continues to shape communities today.
Connection through Country
This year, the Summit was held on Barkandji/Paakantyi, Mutthi Mutthi and Ngiyampaa Country in the Mildura and Willandra Lakes region. Time was also spent at Lake Mungo.
Guided by Elders, participants spent time on Country learning through story, place and shared experience. These moments created space for reflection and connection beyond day-to-day work.
Strengthening reconciliation in the work ahead
As Wellways prepares to launch its first Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, the Cultural Summit continues to demonstrate what reconciliation in practice looks like.
It is built on listening, learning and respect for cultural authority. It also strengthens relationships across the organisation.
By investing in cultural connection, First Nations leadership and local partnerships, Wellways is building a stronger, more connected organisation. People feel respected, supported and able to bring their whole selves to work. Reconciliation is an active, intentional part of the journey and the work ahead.