Country Was Here First
A Story for Australia Day / Survival Day

Australia Day can be a complex time to hold in early childhood settings.

"Country Was Here First" is a gentle story for children aged five and under, offering an age-appropriate way to approach Australia Day / Survival Day through listening, relationship, and care for Country.

The story centres Country as living and shared, places First Peoples at the heart as long-term carers of land, and acknowledges the arrival of new people in a truthful but developmentally suitable way. It avoids blame and graphic detail, while supporting meaningful conversations with children, educators, and families.

This resource can be used as a shared story with children, a discussion tool for educator teams, or a way to communicate values and intent with families. Download the story and accompanying educator note to support thoughtful, respectful conversations in your setting.
Click below to receive the story link in your email.