My primary school teachers taught me the last Tasmanian First Nations person died in 1876. 

In Grade 4 we visited a museum in Devonport, Tasmania, set up in memory of Truganini’s life and death. I heard the word “extinction” used. It made me sad. But, being a kid I just believed my teachers. In actual fact, this information was wrong and harmful.

Every student on Tasmania’s North-West Coast was taught the same thing, including my classmates from First Nations families who had lived on that island for thousands of years. Were they thinking: “If Truganini was the last Tasmanian Aboriginal, what does that make me?”

This is part of my biased education story. But it doesn't have to be this way anymore.

Ahead of Reconciliation Week, we want to hear your story.

Good or bad, we want to learn from our past to create a more understanding, connected future. 

Disappointed by your education about First Nations people?

Or were local First Nations community perspectives respectfully included in what you learned? We conducted research last year that revealed that 68% of Australians WISHED they had a better education about First Nations peoples, cultures and histories.

We want to collect stories about what you were taught in school about First Nations people. 

World Vision Australia is supporting an upcoming First Nations-led campaign to ensure that the next generation of children will get the opportunity to learn more about our ancient country and the rich and diverse cultures of First Nations people that continue to this day.

Thanks for sharing your story,

Ruth Lamperd

World Vision Advocacy Lead

Good or bad - share your story here: