Reconciliation
Lander & Rogers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. As a law firm, we are aware that our legal system is based on the dispossession of First Nations people, who have a sacred and sovereign connection to the land.
Our firm is committed to genuine reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community. We understand that reconciliation is only possible when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are empowered to decide its terms. Our approach pursues these objectives by building meaningful relationships, promoting respect and creating opportunity.
Relationships
We believe constructive, two-way relationships are foundational to the pursuit of reconciliation. Our firm forges genuine connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations. These include strong and meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander human rights groups, legal centres, lawyer and law student associations, arts centres and NGOs.
Respect
Guided by our belief that respect needs to embody both understanding and active recognition, we actively improve awareness within our firm of the ancient cultural connection and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the Australian continent and surrounding islands. Through increased knowledge, greater engagement, recognition and truth-telling, we encourage appreciation of the respective Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements.
Opportunities
Recognising the barriers experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in relation to employment, business and education, as well as being an equal opportunity employer we facilitate education, recruitment and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians . We also directly engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned enterprises to create opportunities for business development and growth.
We want to be known as a culturally safe and welcoming environment for employees of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent to join, work with or visit the firm.
Our partners
Lander & Rogers has provided pro bono legal advice to Djirra (formerly Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention and Legal Service Victoria (FVPLS)) since 2009. The Service performs vital work building knowledge, strengthening culture and helping to empower women to escape family violence. Djirra supports victims of family violence to build new lives, contribute to their community and ensure strong family foundations for their children.
Lander & Rogers has worked with Murrup (formerly Community Spirit Foundation) since 2010. Our partnership focuses on supporting positive life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Our legal work and community engagement support the organisation's aim to build full potential in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Lander & Rogers first partnered with the East Kimberley-based Warmun Art Centre in 2013, through the Arts Law Centre "Adopt a Lawyer" program. We help service the Centre's legal needs and assist with promoting a strong local culture and community. We're grateful to the Centre for providing opportunities to engage with the Gija people of the East Kimberley. These experiences enrich our firm's knowledge and understanding of Indigenous language and culture. The relationship has deepened through legal work, secondments and visits facilitated through the Centre.
Reconciliation Action Plan
Our first and second Reconciliation Action Plans have provided us with vehicles to further reconciliation efforts in a meaningful and rewarding way. Below, we share our third Reconciliation Action Plan.
Fast facts
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4,729
is the number of pro bono hours we've completed for First Nations clients in FY24.
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We have a long-standing commitment to reconciliation and achieving better outcomes for Indigenous Australians, and we proudly endorse the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
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$28,000+
in artworks sold at our recent Warmun Art Centre showcase, with all proceeds going to the artists and supporting the centre's mission to empower Gija artists and the Warmun community through sustainable arts enterprise.