New Aboriginal Cultural Liaison Officer to link schools and community

Leanne Bovington, the new Aboriginal Cultural Liaison Officer for Catholic Education, Diocese of Bathurst, has been appointed to assist schools become more culturally safe and aware.

Leanne will work with all 33 schools in the diocese, but particularly the 14 that don’t have access to their own Aboriginal Education Worker (AEW).

Formerly an AEW at James Sheahan Catholic High School in Orange for eight-and-a-half years, Leanne’s new role will enable her to benefit all 33 schools of the diocese.

A proud Aboriginal woman from the Walbunja Yuin language group, she has strong connections to the land and its peoples.

“My role is an exciting step forward for all our students and staff in the Bathurst diocese, a movement forward culturally and professionally, as it truly fosters reconciliation for all students and staff, allowing them to develop respect for diversity and an understanding of cultural difference,” Leanne said.

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students will be able to embrace their identity and be proud to be a member of our First Nations, something I didn’t have when I was growing up.

She aims to support schools to include Aboriginal cultural and education goals in their strategic plans. She has already started liaising with principals to that end.

“It will provide all students and just as importantly all staff with a well-rounded knowledge of Australia’s histories and cultures. This is a cross-curriculum priority," Leanne said.

“I aim to provide our teaching and support staff with an appreciation of our culture and will provide an environment where they can respond safely about their understanding and knowledge of Aboriginal history, culture and the diversity of Aboriginal families and the wider community.

“My role is particularly important to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students as it will lead to a sense of belonging and knowing who they are.

“Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students will be able to embrace their identity and be proud to be a member of our First Nations, something I didn’t have when I was growing up.

“Everyone needs to know who they are and where they have come from to determine where they need to be in the future. This essentially builds their wellbeing and self-worth, leading to better life outcomes.”

Sue Osborne
Journalist