It appears to be an oxymoron that we call ourselves both old and young.

We are young when it comes to governance and a Commonwealth country.

In the same breath, we are also one of the oldest in the world. Science, through DNA, has confirmed that Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest on Earth.

The testing determined indigenous Australians were descendents of the first people to leave Africa up to 75,000 years ago. They were the first modern human to traverse unknown territory in Asia and Australia.

The treatment of indigenous Australians upon the Western world’s discovery of Australia was deeply shameful. Unfortunately that abhorrent treatment continued until very recently with the Stolen Generation.

In 1998 Sorry Day was formed. Reconciliation Australia says this day was an important moment every year to reflect and heal.

This year also marks a decade since then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a national apology to indigenous Australians for the suffering caused by mistreatment.

We are a country bursting with national pride. But this doesn’t mean we are perfect. 

Australia has become a melting pot of cultures over the years. It’s considered one of our greatest strengths.

Our history has also made it difficult to sum up our identity given its complexity. In recent years the spirit of the Anzacs has been used to sum up our Australian character. We have placed a high value on mateship, courage, selflessness, endurance and good humour.

All cultures can relate to these values. It’s what unites us.

This week is Reconciliation Week. The theme this year is: ‘Don’t keep history a mystery’.

The theme highlights the negatives and the positives.

It’s important that the past is not forgotten with a strong focus on a future that demonstrates a completely reconciled Australia. 

True reconciliation is across all areas of society – this includes, but is not limited to, legal, health, education and environment. Unfortunately this won’t happen overnight. However, it’s important that the process is open and respectful.

This week we should be mindful of our past, celebrate Aboriginal culture and work together to secure a future we can all be proud of.