The Royal Australian Navy is reaffirming its commitment to reconciliation and strengthening partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Launched on the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, the Djalkiri – Foundational Footsteps: Navy Indigenous Action Plan 2026-2031 outlines how Navy will deepen cultural understanding, bolster community partnerships and create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The five-year plan includes actions to expand Indigenous recruitment and career pathways, while encouraging youth engagement and fostering stronger connections with Indigenous organisations.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley, AM, CSC, said the action plan represented an important next step in Navy's ongoing journey with First Nations Australians.

"Djalkiri reminds us that meaningful change is built one step at a time," Vice Admiral Buckley said.

"At its heart, Djalkiri is about building a deeper maritime story alongside a shared purpose. Long before the establishment of the Royal Australian Navy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples navigated, understood and protected the waters surrounding our continent.”

It recognises the contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have made to Australia's maritime heritage and the service of First Nations Australians in Navy, both past and present.

Madarpa Elder and clan leader Dr Djambawa Marawili, AM, as one of the leaders in the Sea Rights movement, helped provide the vision behind the action plan.  

“I thank Dr Djambawa Marawili for sharing the spirit of Djalkiri with Navy to strengthen our journey as we advance this shared endeavour with First Nations Australians,” Vice Admiral Buckley said.

Navy Indigenous Advisor, Lieutenant Commander James Holman, said the plan reflected years of engagement across Indigenous personnel and veterans, Indigenous Elders and communities, as well as the broader Navy.

"The launch of Djalkiri represents Navy's commitment to building on strong foundations and creating lasting change," Lieutenant Commander Holman said.

"Through First Nations-led diplomacy and partnerships, we will continue deepening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and working together to achieve shared outcomes for future generations."

Media note

The Navy Indigenous Action Plan can be found at Navy Indigenous Action Plan 2026–2031 | Royal Australian Navy.

Media can access imagery/vision at Defence Imagery: Search: Bäniyala Sea Rights