In Conversation with Darren Moffitt

Darren Moffitt is a Bidjigal man who joins us to discuss his recent work in North-East Victoria as a Recovery Coordinator for Aboriginal Culture and Healing.

Darren’s role is part of the Black Summer recovery initiative activated by Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) and is one of the first examples of a government program recognising Aboriginal Healing as a dedicated line of recovery within the pillars of disaster recovery.

In this conversation, Scotia and Darren discuss:

  • The importance of ensuring Aboriginal voices have a seat at the table when it comes to recovery planning and processes
  • BRV’s introduction of a dedicated line of recovery focused on Aboriginal Healing which stands alongside traditional recovery pillars of health, economy, natural environment, and infrastructure, and supports projects led by Aboriginal community organisations and Traditional Owner groups
  • The effectiveness and challenges of Victoria’s Bushfire Recovery Grants that support Traditional Owner-led recovery projects
  • The complexities of identifying and engaging Aboriginal community members who may not always be highly visible within communities
  • How Darren and BRV’s work in the North-East to initiate meaningful engagement with Aboriginal community members has been a catalyst for more ongoing positive engagement across health and local government agencies
  • The important role of culture and the arts and cultural events such as NAIDOC week to build community connectedness

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