Culturally Informed, Compassionate Support
Our services reflect a commitment to quality, dignity, and cultural integrity. Guided by recognised frameworks of care and a deep respect for tradition, we aim to alleviate hardship, address vulnerabilities, and improve quality of life. Together, we move forward through:
Our Story
Woka Walanga
In Yorta Yorta, woka means “land” or “country,” reflecting our deep connection to Country and culture. In Dharawal, walanga means “to follow” or “the path forward,” symbolising movement, progress, and shared purpose. Together, Woka Walanga stands for walking forward while remaining grounded in our land and traditions.
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Our mission is to walk alongside children, families, and communities, providing culturally safe support that connects to culture, strengthens families, and opens pathways of opportunity—always in collaboration with our people and Elders.
Our vision is a proud, thriving future for our people—where every Aboriginal child, family, and community is strong in culture, connected to heritage, and empowered to achieve their dreams on Country.
Our Values
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Family Connection: We actively promote programs that keep families strong, united, and together.
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Cultural Integrity: We embed cultural knowledge and traditions into our services, always honouring and celebrating the cultural identity of the communities we serve.
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Respect & Dignity: We ensure all interactions with our community and stakeholders reflect respect for human dignity and individuality.
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Transparency & Accountability: We maintain trust through clear communication, transparent operations, and accountable practices.
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Collaboration & Community: We collaborate meaningfully with partners, stakeholders, Elders, and the broader community to ensure relevance, effectiveness, and shared success.
Current Initiatives
Walking Together to Create Lasting Change
Our current initiatives reflect Woka Walanga’s dedication to offering impactful, culturally grounded programs that honor heritage while addressing modern challenges. Each initiative is shaped by community input, cultural guidance, and a commitment to person-centered support—ultimately aiming to uplift individuals and alleviate disadvantage.
Youth Justice
Woka Walanga supports culturally informed youth justice initiatives that prioritise mentorship, education, and community-based interventions over punishment.
Why It Matters:
Aboriginal youth account for nearly 60% of young detainees in Australia, despite being just 6% of the youth population. Culturally appropriate interventions reduce reoffending and offer real pathways out of the justice system.
Child Safety
Woka Walanga believes every child deserves safety and stability. We strive to keep Indigenous families together, but when that's not possible, we provide culturally safe and nurturing out-of-home care, deeply connected to culture and community.
Why It Matters:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are 11 times more likely to enter out-of-home care than non-Indigenous children. Culturally safe care significantly improves mental health, identity formation, and long-term wellbeing.
Family Support
Woka Walanga delivers culturally grounded, wraparound services designed to strengthen families, reduce crisis situations, and help Indigenous families build sustainable futures.
Why It Matters:
Indigenous families face higher rates of family breakdown, with children significantly more likely to be placed in care. Evidence shows holistic family support dramatically improves family stability and child outcomes, reducing the need for out-of-home care.
Community Engagement
Woka Walanga actively fosters community resilience through culturally informed mentorship, local leadership, and inclusive community events, strengthening social bonds and identity.
Why It Matters:
Connected communities experience greater wellbeing and fewer harmful behaviours. Indigenous youth participating in cultural programs show significantly improved mental health, including a 25% reduction in substance abuse and lower justice system involvement.
Woka Wadu acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, in particular the Tharawal and Yorta Yorta Peoples. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognize their enduring connection to Country and community. We extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and honor the rich cultural heritage and traditions that continue to shape and strengthen these lands today.
How to Refer or Get Support
