NSW Ombudsman - 2024

  • Review of the DCJ Complaint System in respect of its Aboriginal Child Protection functions

    This special report was completed as part of the NSW Ombudsman's community services complaint system review function. It follows a comprehensive review of the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) system for handing complaints from, or concerning Aboriginal children in the child protection system. It makes recommendations to improve DCJ's complaint handling system at a foundational level, starting with a recommendation that DCJ develop a plan for overarching system reform.

    Visit the NSW Ombudsman Website 

  • The Artwork

    "Caring Through Connection: A Path to Justice"

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"Caring Through Connection: A Path to Justice"

This artwork is a visual narrative of the NSW Ombudsman’s vital work in reviewing the Department of Communities and Justice’s approach to handling complaints involving Aboriginal children, young people, and families in the child protection system.

The top section, in deep blue, reflects the state of New South Wales, where this critical work is being carried out. At the centre of this section lies a gathering symbol, representing the NSW Ombudsman as a central figure. Inside, hands symbolise the care and responsibility involved in addressing these sensitive issues. Surrounding the gathering are people symbols, each representing the families and children at the core of this review.

The circles around the gathering symbol evoke a sense of collaboration—each one representing those who contributed to the report, illustrating how this work is a collective effort.

Boomerangs throughout the design embody the extensive research, information, and data gathering that shaped this report. They serve as metaphors for knowledge, investigation, and the cyclical journey of learning and understanding.

The bottom section, in a lighter blue hue, grounds the artwork in communities and country. It is a reminder of the importance of connection to culture, land, and the people at the heart of this process — an ever-present foundation for the work of ensuring justice and equity for Aboriginal children and families.

The colours used in the artwork and design are from the NSW Ombudsman branding guide primary colour palette.

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water - 2024

  • The First Nations Clean Energy Strategy 2024 - 2030

    The First Nations Clean Energy Strategy (the Strategy) was released on 6 December 2024, following extensive public consultation and stakeholder engagement. 

    The Strategy is co-sponsored by the Minister for Energy and Climate Change and the Minister for Indigenous Australians and is a key priority under the National Energy Transformation Partnership.

    Visit the DCCEEW Website 

  • The Artwork

    “Renewal: Connecting Country, Cultures, and Clean Energy”
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“Renewal: Connecting Country, Cultures, and Clean Energy”

In Australia, where ancient landscapes meet modern challenges, a vibrant and transformative Aboriginal contemporary artwork tells the story of Renewal. This piece encapsulates the shared journey towards a sustainable future, where the impacts of climate change are acknowledged and addressed through collaboration, respect, and the integration of First Nations perspectives.

The central theme of the artwork revolves around a powerful representation of the interconnectedness between Country, culture, and clean energy. The canvas is divided into distinct sections, each illustrating key aspects of the journey towards a renewable future.

Cultural Guardians: Aboriginal people symbol stands tall as custodians of the land, embodying the Guiding Principles. The figures are adorned with symbols reflecting cultural heritage, emphasising the ongoing and enduring connection to Country.

Harmony in Diversity: A visual depiction of diverse landscapes, symbolising the remote and regional areas of Australia. From arid deserts to lush coastlines, the artwork reflects the nation’s varied ecosystems impacted by climate change.

Rivers of Resilience: Flowing rivers illustrate the floods and the detrimental impacts on human health. Indigenous motifs along the riverbanks emphasise the importance of water and its sacred connection to life and culture.

Environmental Harmony: Native flora and fauna are intertwined, representing the recognition of First Nations peoples’ environmental values. The Indigenous design thinking concept is visually portrayed, showcasing the potential for environmental co-benefits.

Hands of Collaboration: Surrounding the central theme, handprints symbolize the collaboration between government, communities, and industry. The diverse colours represent the commitment to inclusive engagement, reflecting the allocation of funds for the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy.

Flames of Transformation: A section is dedicated to the challenges faced, with flames representing the longer droughts and severe fire seasons. Amidst the flames, resilient Aboriginal symbols emerge, signifying the strength of First Nations communities in the face of adversity.

Pathways to Participation: Footprints trace pathways throughout the artwork, illustrating the varying roles of participation outlined in the guiding principles. From community engagement to workforce
development, the pathways symbolise the journey towards a sustainable and inclusive future.

Economic Legacy: A section focuses on economic development, featuring line and dot design representing financial support and opportunities for First Nations businesses. It emphasises the enduring economic legacy created through government and private sector initiatives.

Goals and Objectives: Within this ripple are elements such as the boomerang representing sending out, gathering and the return of information as well as gathering elements representing summarising the goals and objectives of Australia’s clean energy transition. These serve as anchors, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the purpose and vision behind
the collaborative effort.

Renewable Horizons: A sun radiates rays of hope, embodying Australia’s commitment to achieving the Paris goal. Wind turbines and solar panels are seamlessly integrated, showcasing the nation’s move towards 82% renewable electricity by 2030.

“Renewal” stands as a visual narrative, inviting viewers to contemplate the significance of cultural heritage, the connection to land, and the collective responsibility in building a sustainable and inclusive future for all Australians.