In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, SNAICC Media Manager Charlie Bowcock yarns with proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman and 2026 Children’s Day Ambassador Marlee Silva about this year’s theme, Living Our Truth, and what it means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to grow up strong, proud and connected to culture. 

Marlee reflects on growing up in a family where culture was part of everyday life, and how that early confidence and pride shaped her path as a storyteller, writer, broadcaster and sports media presenter. She speaks about the responsibility that comes with representation, the importance of opening doors in mainstream media and sport, and why young people should feel encouraged to back themselves, create their own pathways and show up as their full selves. 

Together, Charlie and Marlee celebrate the strength, identity and limitless potential of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, while recognising the vital role of families, communities and Aboriginal community-controlled organisations play in helping children live their truth and reach their full potential. 

Keep the conversation going. Follow, subscribe and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Joel Matysek yarns with Karrii Johnstone and Jaharn Mundy-Drazevich about the launch of SNAICC's Youth Voice Engagement Report and young Mob's contribution to SNAICC's advocacy.

SNAICC's Youth Voice engagement lead Joel Matysek is joined by Karrii Johnstone and Jaharn Mundy-Drazevich, two members of SNAICC's Youth Advisory Group to reflect on the journey from SNAICC's Youth Advisory Group to the establishment of the Youth Voice sub-committee, a key part of SNAICC's strategy to create more space for young people to build skills, strengthen connections, and inform and influence decisions that affect their communities and beyond.

This episode highlights the strength, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for their voices to be heard. Karrii and Jaharn share their experiences of joining the Youth Voice sub-committee, building confidence, learning from other young people, and helping shape what the Youth Voice will look like into the future.

If you would like to speak to someone in the SNAICC Youth Advisory team, feel free to reach out to them at [email protected]

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Nadia Currie (Acting Director, Sector Engagement & Innovation) and Sid Williams (Acting Manager, ACCO Transformation) sit down for a yarn about ACCO transformation, diving into what it really means, and what it looks like in practice. 

Through this yarn, Nadia and Sid unpack the shift towards Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations leading the design and delivery of services, and why this approach is so important for children, families and communities. It’s a conversation that moves beyond policy language and into lived experience, centring community, connection to Country and the value of working in genuine partnership. 

Together, they reflect on what’s been learned so far, the challenges that still exist, and the importance of continuing to listen, adapt and walk alongside community in this work. Because ACCO transformation isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about creating the right conditions for communities to lead. 

At its heart, this episode is a reminder that we already know what works. The focus now is on backing that knowledge with trust, resources and long-term commitment. 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Eastern Arrernte and Gurindji woman and SNAICC Communications Coordinator, Dakoda Lally, joins host Michael Lynch for a powerful yarn about storytelling, social media and why our stories matter more than ever. 

Dialling in from Mparntwe (Alice Springs), Dakoda reflects on the power of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander storytelling, reminding us that we are the original storytellers of this Country. She unpacks how social media can be a tool for amplifying strength-based narratives, shifting deficit discourse and showcasing the incredible work happening across the ACCO and early childhood sector.

Together, they explore practical, accessible strategies for organisations wanting to strengthen their online presence in 2026, from yearly content planning and working month-by-month, to understanding the personality of each platform. Is Facebook the loose uncle at Christmas? Is Instagram the cool cousin? Is LinkedIn the polished entrepreneur? Dakoda breaks down how each space requires a different approach and why short-form vertical video is here to stay.

Whether you’re new to social media or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply have a yarn and press record.

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this milestone 10th episode of Kids, Culture, Community — SNAICC Yarns, host and SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle sits down with SNAICC Executive Director Mandy Taylor on Wurundjeri Country in Naarm for a reflective and forward-looking yarn. Together, they look back on the transformative year that was 2025, exploring its successes, lessons and challenges, and share their vision for 2026. 

Catherine and Mandy discuss the 10th anniversary of the Family Matters report, the historic SNAICC’25 conference and the critical reforms that are reshaping how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families are supported across the country. They explore the urgent need to shift investment from crisis response to prevention, the strength of community-controlled services, and the power of storytelling to drive systemic change. 

This episode also  celebrates the full establishment of SNAICC’s Youth Voice initiative, the removal of the childcare activity test and  the landmark appointment of the National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children; a key accountability mechanism long advocated for by SNAICC and the sector. Catherine and Mandy share personal highlights from the year, including the joy of Children’s Day and the inspiring voices of young people, reflecting on what it means to carry  the work of SNAICC forward with hope, determination and unity. 

As we step into 2026, this yarn is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much further we can go when we listen to, invest in, and celebrate our children, families and communities. 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Michael speaks with Meriam man Richard Weston, CEO of Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, about the findings of the 2025 Family Matters Report and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-led solutions that work to ensure children grow up safe, cared for and connected to family and culture. 

Richard shares the hard truths from a decade of data, which show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to be disproportionately represented in all stages of Australia's child protection systems. He explains how the current child protection system prioritises crisis intervention over early family support and how removal perpetuates a cycle of harm and trauma. 

For over 30 years, Maari Ma in Far West NSW has proven a better way. Richard explains the organisation’s integrated, early intervention model that wraps health, family support and deep cultural connection around families. This holistic approach builds strength, keeps children safe at home and actively prevents contact with statutory systems. 

He shares powerful stories from the ground, like an example of a three-year-old girl who spoke of her heart and spirit in Barkanji language, embodying the cultural pride this model nurtures. The core message from Richard is clear: to fix the system, governments must stop investing in removal and start investing in proven, community-controlled services that keep children connected to their families, culture and Country. 

Content Warning: This episode discusses child removal and trauma. For 24/7 crisis support, call 13YARN (13 92 76). 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this inspiring episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, we sit down with two legendary Elders, Aunty Norma Ingram and Aunty Margret Campbell. 

Hosted by Narelda Jacobs, this conversation takes us back to Redfern in 1973, to Sheppard Street where Aunty Norma, Aunty Margret, and a group of determined Aboriginal mothers created Murawina, the first fully Aboriginal-run preschool in Australia. With no funding, no toys, and facing a system against them, they built a movement from the ground up. 

They share how they broke rules to develop their own curriculum rooted in Country, even if that meant taking busloads of children to the park to find the trees. They yarn about the strategic humour that became a tool for survival and resistance, the fight against colonisation and the ongoing battle to have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems valued in education. 

This is a story of care, intergenerational strength, and belief that passing culture and belonging to our children is the ultimate act of love. Aunty Norma and Aunty Margaret’s legacy is a masterclass in community-led change, reminding us that the answers have always been with community. 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

Recorded live on the main stage at SNAICC’25 in Meanjin/Brisbane, this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns takes you to a conversation about what must change to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families. 

Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung, and Boon Wurrung Elder Aunty Muriel Bamblett (VACCA CEO and SNAICC Chairperson) convenes a panel of commissioners and guardians from across the country to discuss the safety, wellbeing and justice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people. 

Joining Aunty Muriel are Adjunct Professor Sue-Anne Hunter (National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People), Dale Agius (South Australia’s Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People), Natalie Lewis (Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Commissioner), Jacqueline McGowan-Jones (WA Commissioner for Children and Young People), Shahleena Musk (NT Children’s Commissioner) and Shona Reid (SA Guardian for Children and Young People). 

Commissioners and Guardians are independent voices who champion and advocate for children’s rights and hold systems to account. In this episode, they bring a human rights and accountability lens to the discussion on the continued over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care and youth justice systems. Together, they discuss the priorities for reform and what real change looks like for the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities. 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, and Community – SNAICC Yarns, we take you right to the main stage of the SNAICC'25 Conference for the Youth Voice plenary.

Join Meuram man Joel Matysek, SNAICC’s Youth Voice lead, and Youth Advisory Group members Samuel Dela Bon, Rylie Cadd, Kasey Kopp and Jaharn Mundy Drazevich as they yarn about the work of establishing a formal youth structure within SNAICC. 

Listen as the panel shares what makes them deadly and dives into the motivations behind creating the Youth Advisory Group. They discuss the eight-month co-design journey from nationwide consultations to their key principle of not duplicating existing community efforts but building from them. The group reflects on the importance of creating culturally safe, flexible spaces where young people are the experts in their own lives and can influence the policies that affect them. 

Hear their personal stories of navigating the anxieties and triumphs of leadership, the importance of collaboration, and the need for an ‘ecosystem approach’ that amplifies voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth from urban, regional, and remote communities. This conversation is an inspiring testament to the power of youth voice, cultural identity, and the responsibility of organisations to listen, support and act.

Watch the full episode on YouTube 

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved. 

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, we celebrate Indigenous Literacy Day — a national day that honours the rich stories, cultures, and languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, Strength in Our Stories – For Now and Future Generations, is a reminder that languages and cultures are alive, strong and thriving, and that sharing language and stories with children and adults across Australia helps ensure they continue for generations to come.

Eastern Arrernte and Gurindji woman Dakoda Lally hosts this special episode, reading I Saw We Saw — a beautiful book created by Yolŋu students at Nhulunbuy Primary School in North East Arnhem Land. Developed through the Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s Community Publishing Program, the story was crafted in both English and Dhaŋu, a Yolŋu Matha language, with guidance from Yolŋu Elders and support from Ann James and Ann Haddon. With its vibrant illustrations and bilingual storytelling, I Saw We Saw opens a window into Yolŋu Country and culture through the eyes of children.

Dakoda also reflects on the significance of Indigenous Literacy Day, held each year on the first Wednesday of September — a day of listening, learning and celebrating the incredible diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages and stories.

Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.