The Australian Labor Party included formal support for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country ceremonies in its draft national platform, ahead of debate at its 50th National Conference in Adelaide from July 23 to 25.
These ceremonies, performed by Traditional Owners to show respect for the land, trace back to 1970s adaptations of ancient protocols and are defended by Albanese as non-harmful courtesy amid criticism from One Nation’s Pauline Hanson, who wants them ended.
Polls show mixed views, with 56-60% in an April survey calling them divisive, while supporters like Indigenous psychologist Dr. Tracy Westerman see them as steps toward reconciliation.
