Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity Training
Learning Through Understanding
MTWAC’s Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Training provides participants with knowledge and insights into the history, culture and contemporary experiences of Tasmanian Aboriginal people. Designed for non-Aboriginal participants and delivered in a safe and respectful environment, the program explores Tasmanian Aboriginal beliefs and practices, past and present, and the deep and enduring connections between people, culture and Country.
Over two days, learning moves from the training room to Country. Participants first explore Tasmanian Aboriginal history and its continuing impacts through facilitated discussion and interactive learning, before travelling to Tebrakunna at Cape Portland to walk on Country, learn from the landscape and take part in cultural activities. Together, these experiences provide an opportunity to deepen understanding, challenge assumptions and build more respectful relationships.
The course is available for individual or group bookings, with courses generally accommodating 10–14 participants.
What The Program Covers
This training provides participants with the opportunity to:
- Understand the impact of culture on communication and relationships.
- Explore cultural differences and the historical and social contexts that shape them.
- Recognise subtle cues in cross-cultural interactions.
- Develop a deeper understanding of culture beyond race and ethnicity.
- Learn how to ask questions respectfully, listen actively, and learn from lived experiences.
- Break down cultural barriers and build mutual respect.
- Improve communication and cultural awareness in a safe and supportive environment.
- Exchange perspectives and learn through meaningful discussion with others.
This training can be both emotionally confronting and enlightening, offering new perspectives on cultural understanding, respect, and connection.
The Two Day Learning Journey
Day 1 - Understanding The History
Participants explore the timeline of Tasmanian Aboriginal history, from deep history to the present day, including both national and Tasmanian history.
The session includes:
- Aboriginal history from deep history to the present day.
- Discussion of key events and experiences, including the Walk across the Bridge, racism, government policies, the Referendum and the Redfern Speech.
- An interactive activity building the historic journey-lines
Session Time: 4-5 hours.
Location: Noonameena (Home) – Old Riawunna Building, UTAS Newnham Campus
Day 2 - Learning on Country
Walk on country
Participants travel to Tebrakunna, Cape Portland, for an opportunity to walk on Country and discover and discuss landscapes of cultural significance to Tasmanian Aboriginal people.
The day includes:
- Continuing the discussion of Aboriginal history.
- Discovering food and medicinal sources and living sites.
- Exploring what Country means for Aboriginal people.
- Taking part in a cultural activity, such as string-making or working with wood and kelp.
Session Time: 4-5 hours.
Location: Tebrakunna Ranger Base, Cape Portland.
Testimonials
“It was a fantastic couple of days. I felt very privileged to be part of the training. I would recommend this to everyone and I would love to do it again”.
“It will change how I operate as an employer and as a person – wonderful experience. Thank you all so very much”.
“I had completed a cultural awareness course earlier and understood some of the history, however the level of detail provided in this course was great”.
Course Fees & Information
COURSE FEES
$440.00 (inc GST) per person
DEPOSIT & PAYMENT
A 20% non-refundable deposit per participant is required at the time of booking. This confirms the participant's place in the course. The remaining fees will be invoiced following the completion of the course.
GROUP SIZE
A minimum group size of ten people is recommended. Smaller or larger groups may be accommodated on request.
TRANSPORT
Transport via bus to Tebrakunna Country, Cape Portland can be arranged at an additional cost.
LUNCH
Lunch can be provided each day for an additional cost.
Book Online
View our upcoming courses, and book online using the button below, or contact us for more information