About

The Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation Cultural Centre and Keeping Place aims to supply and maintain an educational, creative and supportive environment for the community and our people. The Cultural Centre is a significant keeping place for Aboriginal culture and heritage in the Illawarra region and is committed to equity and equality for all Aboriginal people.

We function as a voice for our people and provide culturally appropriate services to the unemployed, youth, elderly and needy.  We aim to respond to the needs of the Aboriginal community and consistently work towards positive development and change in these areas. 

The staff at our centre strive towards a positive future for Aboriginal people, promoting and maintaining cultural pride in our heritage, based on the traditions, efforts and achievements of members of the Aboriginal community from the past. We value a commitment to learning and education and aim to provide opportunities for training and study at every level in the organisation.

We endeavour to act as role models for young Aboriginal people, with a view for them to inherit leadership roles in the Aboriginal community through appropriate education and mentoring programs. We see the process of breaking down cultural barriers, removing stereotypical and racist attitudes, behaviours and representations as an essential part of this commitment.The Cultural Centre is also highly committed to and passionate about promoting Aboriginal Art and Culture. We provide the space and support for the creation and exhibition of Aboriginal Arts and Crafts, as well as Aboriginal cultural art exhibitions, excursions and cultural awareness experiences. 

The Cultural Centre participates in commercial ventures in order to reduce our reliance on government funding, whilst maintaining our dedication to preserving and strengthening our culture. We have function rooms available to hire for conferences, meetings and workshops, as well as educational lectures and activities for students of all levels.

The Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation Cultural Centre and Keeping Place is a not-for-profit organisation incorporated under the provisions of the Aboriginal Councils & Associations Act of 1976 and is governed by a board of twelve voluntary directors.