A New Resource for Local Governments on the Path to Reconciliation
What Is Kolbang Yanginy?
Kolbang Yanginy is a new online platform supporting local governments across Western Australia to build strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Focusing on key themes like reconciliation, partnerships and placemaking, Kolbang Yanginy provides advice, resources, case studies and an interactive map to build capability across local governments.
The website also provides information about legislative, regulatory and policy requirements with respect to Aboriginal heritage and native title, with links to further information from State Agencies.
Who’s Behind the Project
Kolbang Yanginy is a collaborative effort between Reconciliation WA, WALGA, The Department of the Premier and Cabinet, The Department of Local Government Industry Regulation and Safety, and Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, with support from Lotterywest.
Local governments play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive and cohesive communities.
Kolbang Yanginy provides a holistic resource dedicated to empowering local governments to embrace partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, honouring cultural heritage and culture and embedding reconciliation into decision making.
By using the tools and insights provided, local governments can take meaningful steps in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and building strong, inclusive communities. Local governments are invited to explore the Kolbang Yanginy website and consider how it can support their reconciliation journey.
What the Partners Are Saying
“Reconciliation is up to all of us. The new Kolbang Yanginy (going forward | sharing) Local Government Reconciliation Resource, is a true example of what can be achieved when we come together as one. Through sharing our stories, learnings, policies and reconciliation best-practices we can help local governments strengthen relationships, drive reconciliation commitments and build positive outcomes that impact the whole community. Congratulations to Reconciliation WA and to all the partners involved in the development and launch of the website. This will no doubt be a significant online resource for the Western Australian community, and we look forward to seeing it grow.” — The Department of the Premier and Cabinet
“The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety is proud to have collaborated with partners to develop Kolbang Yanginy, a dynamic online resource supporting reconciliation across local governments. This initiative provides practical guidance on engaging respectfully with Aboriginal communities and helps councils understand and meet their legislative responsibilities relating to Aboriginal heritage and Native Title. We were honoured to have the opportunity to work together fostering positive, collaborative relationships that honour culture and strengthen community.” — The Department of Local Government Industry Regulation and Safety
“The Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage is committed to building meaningful reconciliation and is a proud contributor to the Local Government Reconciliation Resource Project. Supporting the project is important to ensure Western Australia’s local governments have the opportunity to access resources that highlight the significance of land and cultural heritage to Aboriginal people and demonstrate how to best respect the ongoing connection Aboriginal people have with the land, waters and community. The Department is also committed to providing advice and support to local governments to reduce the impact to Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and places.” — The Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
“WALGA joins Reconciliation WA and State Government partners to celebrate the launch of Kolbang Yanginy. This new digital reconciliation resource will support Local Governments to strengthen their relationships with Aboriginal communities. I’m confident the case studies, tools and resources available will be invaluable to Local Government and their communities embarking on their reconciliation journeys and will drive meaningful action and partnerships.” — Nick Sloan, CEO WA Local Government Association (WALGA)
“At Reconciliation WA, Kolbang Yanginy represents more than just a resource; it’s the culmination of a shared journey. We embarked on this path with local governments to ensure that reconciliation isn’t just an aspiration but a lived experience in every community. This resource was born from a need to create genuine, respectful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and to empower councils to lead with respect, truth, and understanding. We hope it inspires deep and lasting change, supporting communities where everyone feels connected to our shared history and a united future.” — Reconciliation WA
Explore the Features
Kolbang Yanginy provides:
- A first of its kind interactive map linking local governments with Traditional Owners and organisations
- Inspiring case studies and local voices
- Tools and resources that help local governments work respectfully with Aboriginal communities
- Guidance on cultural protocols, heritage, and partnership building
- Support to local governments to understand and meet legislative, regulatory and policy requirements with respect to Aboriginal heritage and native title
The project collaborated with Winyama, an Indigenous geospatial company, to design and develop this interactive mapping tool. The map brings together data and stories to help users explore and connect Country, community and organisations across Western Australia. This is the first of its kind in WA.
The Story in the Artwork
Robyn Jean and Emily Rose are a mother-daughter duo, proudly connected to their Noongar/Yamatji heritage. Emily honours her roots through art inspired by healing, motherhood, and Country. Robyn, a multimedia artist with over 30 years of experience, brings a rich essence through photography and digital art, capturing the stories of her ancestors. Together, they create works that reflect their deep connection to culture and land, blending traditional and modern techniques to share their family’s legacy with future generations.
The intricate artwork explores the theme of collaboration and the passage of time, with a central tree symbolising the enduring effort and patience required to build lasting relationships. Detailed lines and textures in the tree reflect the ongoing process of working together. The interconnected water and earth elements highlight the unity of natural forces, while the resilient roots, spreading in all directions, represent strength and stability from deep, enduring connections. Layers in the land lines evoke history and traditions. The setting sun speaks to natural cycles, the passage of time, and the rhythm of life, symbolising renewal and the enduring spirit of the land and its people.
