NSW AECG Inc.

Earlier this week, our President Ray Ingrey was invited to attend the Department of Education's NAIDOC celebration in Parramatta. The day focused on the 2026 theme '50 Years of Deadly', celebrating where we are and honouring our old people who were in the struggle.

NSW Department of Education Secretary, Murat Dizdar opened the event with an address. Highlights included the student hosts who are descendants of Jack Patten and William 'Bill' Ferguson from Alex Park Community School, Dubbo College South Campus and Dubbo Public School, the student performer from John Edmondson High School, performances from Emma Donovan and special guests that included Uncle Vic Chapman, the first Aboriginal teacher and first Aboriginal principal in NSW, and Aunty Linda Olive AM, Life Member of the NSW AECG.

The Nanga Mai Awards celebrate excellence in Aboriginal education, recognising the outstanding achievements of Aboriginal students, staff and Community and the power that recognition holds with inspiring future generations.

This year’s theme, ‘Deadly stories, Deadly futures’, reflects the rich cultural stories and histories that empower Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, staff and community to achieve their educational dreams and aspirations that contribute to building more positive futures.

Nominations close on Wednesday 29 July 2026 (Term 3 Week 2). The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at 105 Phillip St, Parramatta held on 4 November.

How to nominate?
Fill in the online form and in 200 words share recent examples of the nominee’s achievements. You will need:
- an endorsement by the principal
- acknowledgment by the local or regional AECG representative
- an image of the nominee.

For more information on how to prepare your nominations, refer to The 21st NSW Department of Education Nanga Mai Awards page: https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/aec/aboriginal-education-in-nsw-public-schools/nanga-mai-awards/21st-Nanga-Mai-Awards

RECRUITMENT OPEN

The NSW AECG is looking for a highly motivated, well organised individual to join our team as an Administration Officer.

The Administration Officer position will require someone who has administration skills and experience to support the operation of programs and services being delivered to the Hunter and surrounding areas.

For more information or to apply, please visit https://au.seek.com/job/92792862?ref=cm-ui

Applications close 5pm Friday 10th July 2026

Aboriginal land rights in NSW are under attack.
Federation is standing with the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group to oppose the Crown Land Management Amendment (Statutory Review) Bill 2026 that would undo more than 40 years of progress under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, one of Australia's most significant land restitution frameworks.
We're calling on the Government to withdraw the Bill or amend it to remove every provision that undermines established legal protections and Aboriginal land rights.
Take action now: sign the petition today to help us reach 20,000 signatures and force debate in NSW Parliament. Every signature makes a real difference. Click the link in the comments to read more and add your name.

RECRUITMENT OPEN

The NSW AECG is looking for highly motivated well organised individuals to join our Strong Spirit Girls Leadership Program.

The Strong Spirit Girls Leadership Program supports female Aboriginal students in Years 7-12 with its primary goal to enhance self-determination and engagement in school; empowering students to take active steps toward reaching their full potential.

For more information or a recruitment pack, please contact [email protected]

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Join us for the NSW AECG Paakantji Language & Culture Camp at Culpra Station!

Dates: 28th - 30th October 2026

Applications can be submitted via Google Form using the link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYBKd3blGzCuVCzEZdgBdae0-TWmn4XYV4tmH3p4xJTFfQyg/viewform

EOI closes Monday 31st August 2026

Last week President Ray Ingrey and NSW AECG Training Managing Director, Uncle Merv Donovan attended the 2026 TAFE NSW Gilli Awards.

President Ray Ingrey was presented with the signed Partnership Agreement between TAFE NSW and the NSW AECG. This is a landmark partnership to create clearer pathways to education and employment for Aboriginal peoples across the state.

Uncle Merv Donovan had the privilege of presenting the Bruce Kendall award alongside Kylie Provest, recognising service to TAFE NSW.

Photography by Michael Boyle

The Healthy Culture Healthy Country program is a culturally informed PLto strengthen cultural understanding and create responsive learning environments for Aboriginal students.

Please note: This professional learning opportunity is delivered in partnership between the NSW AECG and the NSW Department of Education and is available exclusively to NSW Department of Education staff.

Cost - FREE

NSW DoE staff can register via the NSW AECG website or the link below:
https://shorturl.at/kBhsk

For any enquiries, please contact [email protected]

The Healthy Culture Healthy Country program is a culturally informed PL to strengthen cultural understanding and create responsive learning environments for Aboriginal students.

Please note: This professional learning opportunity is delivered in partnership between the NSW AECG and the NSW Department of Education, and is available exclusively to NSW Department of Education staff.

Cost - FREE

NSW DoE staff can register via the NSW AECG website or the link below:
https://shorturl.at/kBhsk

For any enquiries, please contact [email protected]