Embracing First Nations Culture and Connection during NAIDOC Week 2024

At Lendlease, our commitment to reconciliation is embedded in everything we do. Our Elevate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is more than just a framework; it’s a reflection of our values and a cornerstone of our efforts to build lasting relationships with First Nations communities. Since 2011, our RAP has guided us in acknowledging, respecting, and taking meaningful steps towards reconciliation with the Traditional Custodians of the lands we operate on.

This commitment is evident in how we do business. It shapes the way we design our spaces, collaborate with communities, and create experiences that celebrate cultural diversity and foster inclusivity. By prioritising reconciliation, we aim to build stronger, more connected communities where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and inspired. These values are at the heart of our NAIDOC Week celebrations and our year-round efforts to deepen community connections.  

NAIDOC Week: A celebration of history, culture, and achievement

Held in the first week of July each year, NAIDOC Week is a chance to honour the rich histories and significant contributions of First Nations peoples across Australia. It brings communities, retailers, and organisations together to learn, connect, and celebrate. This year’s theme, Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud, and Proud, inspired many of our initiatives as we collaborated with respected Elders and prominent First Nations identities.

Elevating First Nations Voices in our communities

Throughout NAIDOC Week, Lendlease proudly collaborated with Gudanji/Wakaja artist Ryhia Dank (Nardurna), whose commissioned artworks beautifully capture the essence of modern life intertwined with important environmental and cultural narratives. Her vibrant pieces have been showcased across Lendlease shopping centres as part of a larger AW24 campaign, making her art accessible to all, including through free mobile wallpaper downloads.

Ryhia shared her story alongside the authentic voice of media personality Brooke Blurton in the Good Yarns video series—a Lendlease initiative that amplifies meaningful stories of connection, culture, and reconciliation. These collaborations serve to educate and inspire, sparking conversations that resonate far beyond NAIDOC Week.

Immersive experiences at a local level

This year, several of our centres came alive with unique activities that embraced creativity and learning.

Erina Fair partnered with Tim Selwyn of Girra Girra for storytelling and art workshops that guided customers through the rich history of our ancient country.

• Macarthur Square welcomed Elders from the Campbelltown Arts Centre, offering bracelet weaving and boomerang decoration workshops that engaged customers of all ages.
  
  
• Sunshine Plaza and Plumpton Marketplace elevated Ryhia Dank’s artwork with interactive, take-home colouring activities inspired by the Keep the Fire Burnin! Blak, Loud, and Proud theme.
  
  

A lasting impact for our retailers

For our retailer partners, embracing initiatives like NAIDOC Week fosters stronger connections with the community while showcasing their commitment to cultural respect and inclusivity. Incorporating First Nations art, stories, and traditions into their offerings creates a welcoming environment that resonates with customers who value social impact. These efforts not only enhance brand loyalty but also reinforce the power of collaboration in creating vibrant, inclusive spaces for all.

Looking towards the future

At Lendlease, our journey with First Nations recognition doesn’t end with NAIDOC Week. Through our Elevate Reconciliation Action Plan, we continue to strive for deeper engagement, understanding, and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures throughout the year.

By embracing First Nations art, stories, and voices, we’re not only honouring Australia’s oldest living cultures, but also creating a pathway to a more connected and inclusive future for everyone who walks through our doors.

Discover how Lendlease is shaping a more inclusive future through our Elevate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) here.

To view more of the Good Yarns video content series please click the links below:

Reconciliation Week

Book Week