SAALSMA has grown from a shared understanding across southern Australia that while there is deep knowledge, strength and leadership across our communities, we are too often asked to engage separately on matters that affect us all. This can weaken what is already strong, creating fragmentation and making it harder to progress our shared priorities for Country. 

For many years, Elders and leaders across southern Australia have called for a way to come together, a space that strengthens connection, supports shared learning and enables us to act collectively where it matters. While Aboriginal-led stewardship continues across land, sea and sky Country, opportunities and support have not always been consistent, limiting what is possible. 

In 2024 this vision came into clearer focus. Elders and leaders gathered on Dharawal Country to map a shared direction for SAALSMA and define how it could be built in the right way, guided by community and responsive to what is needed.  

From this came a shared commitment that SAALSMA would be an alliance of southern Aboriginal Nations, bringing people together to strengthen cultural leadership, support collaboration and create the conditions for stronger long-term care for Country. An Establishing Committee was formed and has since become SAALSMA’s Initial Board, continuing to guide the Alliance forward. 

This continues to shape where we are heading, building an Alliance that grows through relationships, strengthens collective action and creates the conditions for Aboriginal-led care for Country to thrive.