We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and pay our respects to all Elders past and present, and to the children of today who are the Elders of the future.
Artist: Jasmine Sarin, a proud Kamilaroi and Jerrinja woman.
The NSW Ombudsman attended the Yabun Festival on 26 January 2026, joining thousands of community members at one of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander gatherings in the country.
Our presence at Yabun is an important part of how we engage directly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It provides an opportunity for our staff to listen, and speak with community members about their experiences, concerns and priorities. These conversations help inform our work and ensure our services remain inclusive and responsive.
“It is great to have the opportunity to speak with community members about what matters to them,” said Tom Millett, Deputy Ombudsman, Public Interest Disclosures and Complaints Handling. “We can answer questions quickly, have a chat about problems they may be facing, and if it isn't something we can help with, link them with another organisation who can.”
The NSW Ombudsman has an express legislative function to monitor and assess Aboriginal programs, including OCHRE (Opportunity, Choice, Healing, Responsibility, Empowerment), and other government initiatives supporting the health, cultural, economic, educational, and broader wellbeing of Aboriginal peoples. We look forward to continuing to engage with communities across the state and strengthening connections that support fairness, accessibility, and positive outcomes for all.
Read more about our work in monitoring and assessment of Aboriginal programs.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and pay our respects to all Elders past and present, and to the children of today who are the Elders of the future.
Artist: Jasmine Sarin, a proud Kamilaroi and Jerrinja woman.