Navy identify, develop and support the different types of community engagement with local First Nations people.
Activities are coordinated by the Regional Indigenous Development Coordinators (RIDCs) established around Australia.
As serving First Nations members of the Navy, the RIDCs have a wealth of experience at sea and in the community, and represent both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Activities include:
- remote locality visits
- immersion activities on Country
- encouraging others to learn local lore and culture
- participating in First Nations sporting and community events
- promoting employment opportunities for First Nations members in the community
- supporting in-school programs, major Navy events and First Nations events of significance
- the Navy Indigenous Development Program in Cairns
- representing First Nations members at conferences
- Bungaree performances
RIDCs locations:
- HMAS Albatross and HMAS Kuttabul, New South Wales
- HMAS Coonawarra, Northern Territory
- HMAS Cairns, Queensland.
- HMAS Cerberus, Victoria
- HMAS Stirling, Western Australia
Navy supports cultural immersion activities such as the Sea Rights anniversaries for the Blue Mud Bay. In addition, Navy participates in events that support First Nations members led by organisations such as Clontarf and the South Sydney Football Club.