At Taronga we proudly celebrate National NAIDOC Week 2025, we invite you to join us in honouring and recognising the enduring culture, strength and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, resonates deeply with Taronga’s purpose: to secure a shared future for wildlife and people. It speaks to the strength of our Elders, the bold vision of Indigenous communities, and the legacy we are building together - one that empowers the next generation to lead with pride, wisdom and connection to Country.

For 50 years, NAIDOC Week has been a powerful movement for recognition, justice, and cultural celebration. At Taronga, we are committed to ensuring this movement lives on in action and impact. Across our two zoos, we are privileged to operate on Cammeraigal  and Wiradjuri Country – and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from and walk alongside First Nations communities.

Through programmes such as Burbangana in Sydney and Walanmarra in Dubbo, we support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in developing skills, building confidence, and deepening their cultural connections. The Animals of the Dreaming Zoomobile, led by respected Elder Col Hardy OAM, brings Dreamtime stories and native wildlife to schools and communities across New South Wales. These initiatives are more than educational – they are transformative, helping to strengthen identity, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

We’re also proud to offer School-based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) positions at Taronga. These roles enable students to earn credits towards their Higher School Certificate (HSC), gain nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications, and benefit from paid, hands-on experience. Our SBATs focus on key areas such as Tourism, Animal Care, and Conservation & Ecosystem Management - all while students continue their school studies and work towards their HSC.

NAIDOC Week invites all Australians to learn, listen and act. At Taronga, this week and every week, we strive to elevate Indigenous voices, embed cultural knowledge into our work, and support a future where young people thrive - connected to Country, culture and community.

To our First Nations staff, Elders, community partners and program participants - thank you. Your strength, vision and leadership lights the path forward.

We are inspired by you. We walk beside you.

With thanks and respect,

Cam Kerr OAM - Chief Executive Officer, Taronga Conservation Society Australia