23 July 2026
South Metropolitan TAFE commemorated National Reconciliation Week, from 27 May – 3 June; a week that holds profound significance for all Australians as we reflect on our shared journey towards reconciliation.
This year’s theme, “All In” is a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day.
At South Metropolitan TAFE, we have a diverse community of staff and students across our twelve campuses. During National Reconciliation Week, everyone is invited to learn about our nation’s histories, cultures and achievements. This year we held a commemorative gathering at our Armadale campus on 3 June.
Attendees heard a Welcome to Country from Whadjuk Noongar woman Kandice Hansen with sounds on the didgeridoo from Whadjuk Noongar man Adrian Tanner.
South Metropolitan TAFE Manager of Enhanced Aboriginal Engagement, Jeannie Jones, was one of our speakers at the event. Jeannie is a proud Bidigal woman with ancestral ties to the Yuin Nation.
Jeannie shared what the theme “All In” meant to her.
“To me, the theme All In is about recognising that reconciliation and supporting the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is something we all share, a journey shaped by many people over time. It also acknowledges the important role First Nations people have played, often carrying much of the work in advocating, explaining and leading this space over the years."
Jeannie Jones
South Metropolitan TAFE Manager of Enhanced Aboriginal Engagement
“It reminds me to think about the role I play in that journey — listening more, learning continuously, and finding ways to contribute with respect and understanding,” continued Jeannie.
Community Services Lecturer Matthew Pasquill also said a few words, as winner of the Reconciliation category at last year’s Staff Awards.
Attendees enjoyed authentic bush-tucker inspired catering and wrote a personal pledge sharing how they will continue to be “All In” throughout the year.
National Reconciliation Week invites all Australians to take meaningful steps toward strengthening relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
While the week has officially ended, reconciliation is something we must commit to every day of the year, embracing the spirit of being “All In.”
The event began with sounds from Adrian Tanner on the didgeridoo.
Guests heard a Welcome to Country from Kandice Hansen.
Matthew Pasquill, Jeannie Jones, Kandice Hansen and Adrian Tanner joined by our Managing Director Darshi Ganeson and Manager Defence Partnerships and Projects Hayley Cassidy.
Staff and students shared personal pledges on how they will be ‘All In.’
Bush tucker inspired catering was enjoyed by guests.