Cultural awareness training was the first step in Australia’s reconciliation journey. But awareness alone is not enough. This article traces how cultural awareness training began, why it was widely used, and why cultural safety is now the standard. Backed by evidence, we show how cultural safety delivers measurable benefits in health, employment, and organisational performance.

Buneen’s Safe Space Coaching provides culturally grounded support for First Nations staff navigating trauma, cultural load, and unsafe systems — with care, not compliance.

At the 2024 Koorie Conversations Conference, Buneen shared a powerful story of overcoming gambling, rejection, and hidden pain — and reminded us all that cultural leadership starts by creating safe spaces within.

Buneen facilitated a multi-month Truth Telling and Healing process with the Bunurong community — creating culturally safe space for reconciliation, healing, and cultural governance.

Buneen proudly supported the formation of Khuunwilam Gayon-ganyin — the Bunurong Elders Circle. Through truth-telling, cultural leadership, and co-designed governance, the Campfire has been lit.

Over six months, Buneen helped Mentone Grammar co-create a Cultural Safety Framework to embed truth, inclusion, and systemic change across the school.

At Buneen, we believe cultural leadership isn’t just delivered in boardrooms — it lives in community. For five consecutive years, we've supported Belgrave Survival Day through emceeing, facilitation, and holding space for storytelling, truth-telling and cultural celebration. This blog reflects on our ongoing commitment to creating safe spaces — whether it’s through forums, strategic planning, or community-led events that honour the strength and survival of First Peoples.

In Feb 2025, Buneen joined Burrinja Cultural Centre to host Winhanganha — a First Nations-led film fundraiser for Belgrave Survival Day. A night of truth, culture, and purpose.

In partnership with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Buneen facilitated a culturally grounded Strategic Vision Day — building trust, alignment, and a future direction led by community. This wasn’t just co-design. It was co-decide.