Grafton Regional Gallery Cultural Competency Statement

The Grafton Regional Gallery respectfully acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Clarence Valley region — the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl people and recognise the important contribution First Australians make to the artistic and cultural landscape of this country.

We are dedicated to promoting and honouring the culture and traditions of our Aboriginal communities through its arts programs and opportunities.  We work collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, communities, and cultural leaders to ensure our practices are guided and informed by cultural protocols and respectful cultural and creative engagement.

We recognise and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of our region and the artists we work with. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and accessible environment that values the histories, perspectives, and creative expressions of all peoples.

Cultural competency is embedded in our operations, programming, and community engagement. We strive to continuously learn, reflect, and adapt—recognising that true inclusion comes from listening, building trust, and creating space for diverse voices, perspectives, and stories to be seen, heard, and respected.

Through ongoing training, dialogue, and partnerships, we aim to open and maintain thoughtful, considerate and respectful dialogue, and uphold ethical and equitable practices across all facets of our work.

Our work is informed by the Clarence Valley Council Reconciliation Action Plan and the Arts Northern Rivers First Nations Forward report which explores the needs and aspirations of the First Nations creative community of the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl territories.