A Parliament of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Location
Canberra, Australia
Size
18,000 square metres
Status
Concept
The project imagines an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Parliament for Australia's First Peoples, to be located at 'Reconciliation Place' in the Parliamentary Triangle in Canberra.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are Australia's First Peoples. Their ancestors have lived on and been custodians of the continent for over 50,000 years over which time they developed strong cultural connection to the land, based on each community's distinct cultures, traditions and laws. Colonisers ignored the presence, laws and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples when Australia was settled as a British colony in 1788. Australia remains the only Commonwealth nation that has not entered a treaty with its First Nations Peoples.
The project imagines Australia has entered into a Treaty with its First Peoples, where Reconciliation Place becomes the site of Indigenous self governance and self-empowerment. It is only when communities are in power of their own futures that true Reconciliation can take place. It seeks to recognise the inherent dignity, self-determination and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations.
The building is proposed for Reconciliation Place in Parkes, Canberra.
The structure is inextricably connected to the land. It grows out of it, but never dominates yet. It grows out of the ground, and transitions from heavy Earth to lightweight timber.
The building is concieved as part of the landscape, and forms landscape views itself from other parts of the building.
The cultural zone of the Parliament is built into the Earth, making reference to diverse landscapes across Australia and the close connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to the land.
Project Team
Imran RadinA special thanks to the Wollotuka Institute at the University of Newcastle, and National Congress of Australia's First Peoples, for providing advice and consultation for the project.
I also extend a warm thank you to Richard Leplastrier for his guidance and supportive mentorship.