UNSW welcomed hundreds of participants from across Australia to the Allies for Uluru National Allyship Summit, held on 18 September at the John Niland Scientia Building and online.

The Summit brought together representatives from government, not-for-profit and private sector organisations, alongside Voice community groups from across the country. It provided an opportunity for allies to reflect on lessons from the 2023 referendum, share emerging research and consider the future of allyship in support of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

The event was planned and delivered by the UNSW Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Society, in close collaboration with the Allies for Uluru leadership group, including ANTaR, the Fred Hollows Foundation, Settlement Services International, Oxfam and the Brotherhood of St Laurence. Together, ANTaR and ACOSS represent a network of more than 4,000 Australian community organisations supporting the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Exploring Australia’s changing national story

The day opened with a keynote address from journalist and author George Megalogenis, who examined the changing composition of Australian society and the implications of migration and population change for Australia’s national story.

His presentation explored the demographic forces reshaping the country and provided a foundation for the conversations that followed throughout the day.

The Summit’s second keynote was delivered by Scientia Professor Megan Davis AC, who shared insights from post-referendum research and analysis. Her address highlighted key lessons for the allyship movement and the importance of rigorous, evidence-based reflection on collective strategy.

Professor Davis encouraged participants to consider the nature, purpose and effectiveness of allyship, and how it can best support First Nations aspirations in the years ahead.

Building stronger collaboration

The afternoon brought participants together for discussion and knowledge sharing across sectors and organisations. Conversations focused on strengthening collaboration, sharing practical experiences and identifying opportunities to build a more coordinated and effective allyship movement nationally.

The Summit provided a valuable space for participants to connect, reflect and consider how organisations and individuals can continue to contribute to the aspirations of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

The event reflects UNSW’s ongoing commitment to supporting these aspirations through research, education, public engagement and community partnerships.