The City of Subiaco announced the launch of its first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in May 2024. The plan outlines actionable strategies and initiatives aimed at promoting cultural awareness, fostering relationships and enhancing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the community.
Click here to download the City’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
The City’s initial Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) concluded in April 2025. Since its completion, the City has continued to advance meaningful reconciliation by delivering initiatives that honour and celebrate Aboriginal culture, strengthen relationships, and support the wellbeing of Aboriginal people. These ongoing actions demonstrate the City’s continued commitment to reconciliation and to working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal communities.
Click here to download the Reflect RAP Wrap Up information sheet.
Taking the time to deliver an Acknowledgement of Country, or including a Welcome to Country at an event, reminds us that every day we live, work, and dream on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lands.
A Welcome to Country is delivered by a Traditional Owner or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who has been given permission by a Traditional Owner, to welcome visitors to their Country e.g., a Whadjuk Noongar Elder.
Contact the
Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation for recommendations on who can deliver your Welcome to Country.
An Acknowledgement of Country can be delivered by a non-Aboriginal person.
The City’s Acknowledge of Country wording is as follows:
We acknowledge the Whadjuk Noongar people as the Traditional Custodians of the area. We recognise their cultural connection to the land and waterways of Subiaco, and their continuing contribution to our City.
For more information on Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country, visit the
Reconciliation Australia website.
To find an Aboriginal business for the procurement of goods and services, contact the
Noongar Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Subiaco for recommendations.
Alternatively, search the
Supply Nation Indigenous Business Directory or the
Aboriginal Business Directory WA for verified indigenous businesses.
To view a comprehensive list of services that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, view the
Ruah Aboriginal Resources Directory (2021). Ruah Community Services is an integrated community service provider in Western Australia.
For information on Aboriginal Health, including Aboriginal resources and key Aboriginal health contacts, visit the
Department of Health website.
To research Aboriginal history in WA, including family histories and place names, visit the
Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport website.
On 15 November 2023, the
Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (the 1972 Act) was restored as the legislation that manages Aboriginal heritage in Western Australia.
The City carries out a broad range of works and services that may interact with Aboriginal cultural heritage, and we acknowledge the vital importance of safeguarding these places and values. Local Governments are often required to navigate the balance between protecting cultural heritage and delivering essential community services efficiently and cost-effectively.
Landowners, developers, and other proponents also have a responsibility to comply with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972. This means ensuring that any activity they propose does not harm Aboriginal cultural heritage and undertaking the necessary due diligence before works begin. Compliance may include seeking advice from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, consulting with Aboriginal knowledge holders, obtaining approvals where required, and adjusting project plans to avoid or minimise impacts. By following these steps, proponents can also help protect culturally significant places.
Information about Aboriginal cultural heritage legislation, responsibilities, and compliance requirements is available on the
Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage website.
Yirra Yaakin
The City of Subiaco is honoured to partner with
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company — a vibrant, Aboriginal-led performing arts organisation based at the Subiaco Arts Centre. For over three decades, Yirra Yaakin has “stood tall” in its mission to share Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories through world-class theatre, educational programs and community events. Yirra Yaakin has grown into Australia’s largest First Nations theatre company.
Through our shared commitment to reconciliation and cultural inclusion, the City continues to proudly support Yirra Yaakin’s programs, from major theatrical productions to free family events like the beloved annual Yirra Yaakin Family Picnic and school holiday performances. Together, we nurture creativity, amplify First Nations voices, and foster meaningful cross-cultural connections, ensuring that Subiaco remains a place where all stories are welcomed, heard and celebrated.
Shane Pickett’s Six Seasons Series
Acquired by the City of Subiaco
The City of Subiaco is proud to announce the acquisition of the late Shane Pickett’s renowned Six Seasons series from
Mossenson Galleries in Subiaco. One of Western Australia’s most significant Noongar artists, Pickett spent time at Mossenson Galleries as an artist in residence, and his work captures the deep cultural knowledge, stories, and rhythms of the Noongar seasonal calendar.
The Six Seasons — Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba, and Kambarang — reflect the cycles of country through changes in weather, plants, animals, and cultural activity. Unlike the European four-season model, the Noongar calendar recognises six distinct periods, each marking subtle shifts in nature and guiding sustainable living practices.
Pickett’s series beautifully interprets these transitions, offering a powerful visual expression of Noongar connection to boodjar (Country). The City is honoured to preserve and showcase this important cultural work for the community, celebrating Aboriginal knowledge, creativity, and enduring connection to place. The Subiaco Museum will exhibit his art for all to see.
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Art by Dana Garlett
The City of Subiaco is proud to showcase artwork created by Whadjuk, Nyikina, Minang, Ballardong artist Dana Garlett (pictured left), whose vibrant and contemporary designs celebrate connection to Country, community, and culture. Dana’s work for the City reflects her Whadjuk Noongar heritage, drawing on stories passed down through generations and inspired by the natural environment, family, and the enduring strength of her ancestors.
Dana is a multidisciplinary artist known for her bold colour palettes, expressive linework, and storytelling approach. Her practice spans painting, digital illustration, and community arts projects, with a strong focus on celebrating Aboriginal identity and empowering young people. Dana has exhibited across Western Australia and has collaborated widely on public art, educational resources, and cultural programs.
The City has proudly incorporated Dana’s artwork (pictured left) across a range of initiatives, including Reconciliation Week promotions, City publications, community event branding, and digital platforms that highlight the City’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation. Dana has also facilitated art workshops at Subiaco Museum and helped to create native flora exhibits for Subi Blooms – an annual floral festival in Subiaco. Her artwork helps to visually express Subiaco’s respect for Aboriginal culture and create a welcoming, inclusive identity across our community spaces.