Anniversary of the Redfern Speech

10 December

On 10 December 1992, Prime Minister Paul Keating delivered the Redfern Speech at Redfern Park during the Australian launch of the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People. The speech acknowledged the dispossession, violence and exclusion experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as consequences of colonisation.

The speech remains an important historical document. Marking its anniversary can support critical reflection on truth-telling, responsibility and whether words have been followed by lasting change.

Ways to mark the date

• Read or listen to the speech in full rather than relying on short extracts.
• Discuss the speech with contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander commentary and perspectives.
• Identify a practical action your school or organisation can take beyond the anniversary.

Sources and further reading

This section is under development. More information, sources and further reading will be added as this page grows.

• Australian Government transcript, Redfern Speech
• Dictionary of Sydney, historical context

Related products and resources

We are developing carefully selected products and learning resources for this date. This page will be updated as suitable items become available.