Aboriginal Family Support Services Incorporated is a recognised community based and controlled organisation that was established in 1978. It was born out of the passion and tireless commitment of strong Aboriginal leaders who were determined to address the inequities that existed around the removal of Aboriginal children from their families and communities. Removal of these children often occurred without family consent and the emotional impact on those involved is still being experienced today.

It is acknowledged with great respect that the founders of this organisation had vision and foresight which has left a strong legacy to build on. Almost thirty years later Aboriginal Family Support Services remains the leading organisation in strengthening Aboriginal families, children and young people to remain safe and connected to our rich heritage and culture. In all that the organisation does the safety of our children and young people is at the forefront of the organisation and will continue to be so into the future.

Although significant progress has been made it is vital that the organisation remains focussed to ensure safe and positive futures for our children. Aboriginal culture is thousands of years old and it is a living vibrant culture and as our children remain connected to it they will grow strong and will be able to achieve their maximum potential.
The vision and strategic directions of this organisation is to work together with the community to achieve our mission and goals. By building on the strong foundations left by our founders the organisation will continue to provide powerful leadership and committed staff to deliver the future directions of the organisation. This will require passion and dedication that will challenge and influence social change for the well-being of our community. Aboriginal Family Support Services has this strong leadership and by working together with the community will strengthen and empower our children and young people for the future.

As already stated this is a journey that began over 40,000 years ago – we are part of the rocks and the river – no Aboriginal child should have that taken away from them. I made this statement and I will stand by it and I will do all that I can to develop safe pathways to keep our children and young people connected to their culture.
I would like to personally thank the Board and the staff for their focussed enthusiasm in creating a shared vision and future for the organisation and for our community.
Sharron Williams is a Narungga/Kaurna woman.

Aboriginal Family Support Services Inc.
Telephone 61 8 8212 1112 • FAX 61 8 8212 1123 • Postal address 134 Waymouth Street, Adelaide SOUTH AUSTRALIA 5000