VicHealth consultations have identified that sport is central to the fabric of Aboriginal communities. Sporting clubs, facilities and locations have the potential to be safe places for Aboriginal people to fully express their talents and skills. It’s also a place where they can express this on an even playing field with the wider community. In many cases, Aboriginal people join sport clubs because other Aboriginal people are already involved. It helps bridge the gap between not feeling welcome and wanting to join.
Cultural competence in clubs
Cultural competence in an organisation means there are policies, attitudes and behaviours which enable the staff or volunteers to work effectively in cross-cultural situations. VicHealth research has identified that participation would be boosted throughout mainstream clubs if proper cultural competence was practiced, and if there were staff on hand with experience in this area to liaise with Aboriginal people. This means having individuals involved who identify as Aboriginal so that parents know they have someone they can speak to. If that is not an option, your organisation may also consider undertaking cultural awareness training (read below for more information).
Ensure leaders have relevant skills
Sport organisations aiming to increase participation by Aboriginal people should consider how the skills and experiences of board or committee members, staff, coaches and volunteers allow them to have a positive impact within the sport. Ideally, leaders will be representative of the Aboriginal communities or be competent in developing relationships and empathising with the needs of local communities. Either way, there are some great examples of how sport organisations have increased participation, which everyone can learn from.
Cultural awareness training
Every individual has their own experiences, perspectives and beliefs. Making sport more welcoming and inclusive involves understanding other perspectives, and the needs of people of all ages, backgrounds and ability. But you are not expected to already know everything about everyone. Therefore, cultural awareness training is an excellent option for any sport organisation aiming to encourage greater participation by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Specific training programs do exist, and your organisation is encouraged to consider providing a training session for your staff or volunteers. This is important at both the state association level and at local clubs. Training may help develop:
- Knowledge of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Attitudes and tolerance of diverse cultures
- Increased knowledge of different languages and behavior styles from different cultures
- More inclusive workplaces or club environments
Various organisations can provide cultural awareness training, so it is recommended you engage with training providers to find out if the program meets your needs. Some organisations which provide cultural awareness training include the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Services Association Ltd (VACSAL), and the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT).
Organisations participating in the State Sport Association Participation Program found that organising cross-cultural awareness training was very beneficial in supporting staff to work with Aboriginal communities.