Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre state secretary Trudy Maluga has called for more Aboriginal history to be taught in schools so an authentic representation of Australian history is shared.
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Senior schools in New South Wales could see a greater focus on Aboriginal history in their curriculum, it was revealed this week.
Ms Maluga said we needed to see a similar change in Tasmania to ensure students had the opportunity to learn our nation’s past.
“I think telling the truth about Tasmania’s history and the atrocities that Tasmanian Aboriginal people have endured, and are still probably enduring today, is very important,” she said.
“The state curriculum can broaden students’ knowledge of Aboriginal history and the need to protect it, not only for future generations but for all Tasmanians - it’s going to be a very successful outcome.”
Ms Maluga said a key to making such a change successful was to have Aboriginal community members help teach the subjects.
“We have to work with Aboriginal people so we don’t just have the European or non-Aboriginal version, but the Aboriginal version too,” she said.
“Only then can these future leaders and Tasmanians move forward.”
The state government funded $520,000 over two years in its 2016-17 budget to provide more resources and training so teachers could deliver an enhanced Aboriginal curriculum.
The department is in the midst of working with the Aboriginal community to develop an Aboriginal history and culture component.
Premier Will Hodgman said embracing the Aboriginal community meant celebrating the history, both good and bad.
“Work is already underway between the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community and the Department of Education to introduce a focus on Tasmanian Aboriginals into the history and culture component of the Australian Curriculum, taught in all schools,” Mr Hodgman said.
“The first stage of this began in March this year, and included increasing participation in learning programs that promote Aboriginal history and culture.
“The second stage is on track to commence in term four this year, and will provide schools with additional curriculum resources reflecting Tasmanian Aboriginal history and culture.”
He said this would ensure Aboriginal history had a place in every classroom.
