Aboriginal Engagement and Inclusion: Experiences of natural disasters

The Ground Up research team from the Northern Institute at Charles Darwin University have been working with Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation and the Australian Red Cross in the NT, undertaking research into the experiences of housed and homeless Aboriginal people in Darwin during cyclones and other emergencies. Research methods have involved collaborative work with Aboriginal knowledge authorities as co-researchers, taking seriously the institutionalised knowledge and governance practices of Aboriginal people. Beginning with community leaders in each Town Community, we have worked to develop research under their authority, and where possible worked in language, translating and transcribing discussion with Town Community residents, and Aboriginal people living in the Long Grass. In this paper we report on the outcomes of this research, detailing stories people told of their experiences of cyclones and bad weather events, and about the strategies they employ for remaining safe during these times.