About Us
Overview
Yeddung Mura is a grassroots Aboriginal Corporation founded to address critical gaps identified by Aboriginal elders in supporting Aboriginal people within the community. The organisation focuses on reducing recidivism by aiding the smooth reintegration of Aboriginal prisoners post-release, particularly those lacking strong community connections.
Mission and Programs
Yeddung Mura’s programs are designed to:
- Reduce recidivism: Support Aboriginal prisoners to avoid re-offending.
- Facilitate reintegration: Promote a successful transition back into the community.
- Address complex needs: Tackle social exclusion and the multifaceted challenges faced by prisoners and their families.
A strong community connection is vital for successful reintegration, which helps lower re-offending rates. The organization’s work responds to the significant gap in release and parole arrangements for Aboriginal prisoners, addressing the high social and financial costs of imprisonment through coordinated support systems.
History and Growth
Established with a $1,000 donation from a local church, Yeddung Mura initially focused on supporting detainees released from prison. From its origins with part-time volunteers, the organization has grown to employ over 10 staff members, expanding its capacity to serve the community effectively.
Registrations and Endorsements
- Aboriginal Corporation: Registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).
- Charity Status: Recognized as a Public Benevolent Institution by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
- Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR): Endorsed to receive tax-deductible donations.
Our Elders
We honour and thank our Elders, Aunty Coral King, Aunty Kim Peters, and Aunty Theresa Monaghan, for their passionate and invaluable contributions to our community.
We also express deep gratitude to the Nannies who gather weekly at Yeddung Mura to share stories and provide peer support. Through regular meetings with ACT ministers and government representatives, they offer critical advice on issues impacting Aboriginal people in the ACT. The Nannies actively participate in community forums, engaging with broader perspectives to enrich discussions at their gatherings.
We are profoundly grateful for the Nannies’ unwavering encouragement, wise counsel, and expert guidance to the Yeddung Mura community.