Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns

SNAICC – National Voice for our Children
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Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns is the official podcast from SNAICC – National Voice for our Children dedicated to amplifying the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities. Produced by Australia’s national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, the Kids, Culture, Community podcast fills a vital gap in the podcast landscape. With a strong focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-led solutions, each episode explores real issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families across the country—featuring expert insights, lived experience and cultural knowledge from voices of community. Tune in on your preferred podcast platform and be sure to subscribe and share the podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 16: Shifting Mindsets Around Early Education and Care in Australia

    “I’m not sure sustained, meaningful change is possible, without addressing and thinking about mindsets” - Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO FrameWorks Institute In this episode of SNAICC Yarns, Executive Director of Communications, Mandy Taylor, yarns with Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO of FrameWorks Institute, about how mindsets shape the way Australians understand early education and care, and why shifting these beliefs matters for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.  The conversation looks at mindset work more broadly: how shared beliefs, assumptions and dominant narratives shape the way people understand an issue, what solutions they see as possible, and where they believe responsibility lies. Mandy and Nat discuss how language and strategic communications can build public understanding, strengthen support for policy reform and help avoid deficit-based or “othering” narratives that limit meaningful change.  The episode also previews emerging findings from FrameWorks and SNAICC’s mindsets work, including the importance of activating collective responsibility and developing practical tools for organisations working with children, families and communities. It reminds us that the way we communicate can be a powerful tool for change, leading to more effective advocacy, smarter reform and better outcomes for children.   Click the below link to read FrameWorks’ interim findings report, Listening to Mindsets: Cultural Mindsets of Early Childhood in Australia: https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/resources/interim-findings-listening-to-mindsets-cultural-mindsets-of-early-childhood-in-australia/  For the latest report, Measuring Early Years Mindsets: Patterns of Thinking that Shape Australia’s Future, click here: https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/resources/measuring-early-years-mindsets/  To learn more about FrameWorks’, click here: https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/  Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  2. Sep 14

    Episode 15: Parliamentary Inquiry into Racism

    “The one thing you can’t protect yourself from in this country is racism” – Dakoda Lally    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, SNAICC’s Social Media Coordinator, Dakoda Lally, yarns with Executive Director, Mandy Taylor, about the recent parliamentary inquiry into racism and hate directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  Together, they discuss how racism shows up in personal, structural and online forms, and the lasting impacts it has on the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities. The conversation unpacks structural racism across systems such as child protection and youth justice, its direct impact on Australia’s progress toward Closing the Gap targets, and the urgent need for social media platforms to better moderate racism directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people online.  While this episode addresses difficult and confronting realities, it also celebrates the pride, strength and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and culture and reinforces the importance of supporting Aboriginal community controlled organisations (ACCOs) in the vital work they do to challenge structural racism in Australia.  Keep the conversation going. Follow, subscribe and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.  ---  We would like to thank CAAMA Radio for hosting the recording of this episode of SNAICC Yarns at their deadly recording studio in Mparntwe, Alice Springs.  https://www.caama.com.au/    To learn more about the inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, visit: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Aboriginal_and_Torres_Strait_Islander_Affairs/Responsestoracism    If you or someone you know has been impacted by the issues discussed in this episode, free and confidential support is available through 13YARN: https://www.13yarn.org.au/  Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  3. Aug 4

    Episode 14: Living Our Truth with Marlee Silva

    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, SNAICC Media Manager Charlie Bowcock yarns with proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman and 2026 Children’s Day Ambassador Marlee Silva about this year’s theme, Living Our Truth, and what it means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to grow up strong, proud and connected to culture.  Marlee reflects on growing up in a family where culture was part of everyday life, and how that early confidence and pride shaped her path as a storyteller, writer, broadcaster and sports media presenter. She speaks about the responsibility that comes with representation, the importance of opening doors in mainstream media and sport, and why young people should feel encouraged to back themselves, create their own pathways and show up as their full selves.  Together, Charlie and Marlee celebrate the strength, identity and limitless potential of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, while recognising the vital role of families, communities and Aboriginal community-controlled organisations play in helping children live their truth and reach their full potential.  Keep the conversation going. Follow, subscribe and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities. Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  4. Jul 9

    Episode 13: Listening to Young People: Building the SNAICC Youth Voice

    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Joel Matysek yarns with Karrii Johnstone and Jaharn Mundy-Drazevich about the launch of SNAICC's Youth Voice Engagement Report and young Mob's contribution to SNAICC's advocacy. SNAICC's Youth Voice engagement lead Joel Matysek is joined by Karrii Johnstone and Jaharn Mundy-Drazevich, two members of SNAICC's Youth Advisory Group to reflect on the journey from SNAICC's Youth Advisory Group to the establishment of the Youth Voice sub-committee, a key part of SNAICC's strategy to create more space for young people to build skills, strengthen connections, and inform and influence decisions that affect their communities and beyond. This episode highlights the strength, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for their voices to be heard. Karrii and Jaharn share their experiences of joining the Youth Voice sub-committee, building confidence, learning from other young people, and helping shape what the Youth Voice will look like into the future. If you would like to speak to someone in the SNAICC Youth Advisory team, feel free to reach out to them at youth@snaicc.org.au Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  5. Mar 30

    Episode 12: Unpacking What ACCO Transformation Really Means

    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Nadia Currie (Acting Director, Sector Engagement & Innovation) and Sid Williams (Acting Manager, ACCO Transformation) sit down for a yarn about ACCO transformation, diving into what it really means, and what it looks like in practice.  Through this yarn, Nadia and Sid unpack the shift towards Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations leading the design and delivery of services, and why this approach is so important for children, families and communities. It’s a conversation that moves beyond policy language and into lived experience, centring community, connection to Country and the value of working in genuine partnership.  Together, they reflect on what’s been learned so far, the challenges that still exist, and the importance of continuing to listen, adapt and walk alongside community in this work. Because ACCO transformation isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about creating the right conditions for communities to lead.  At its heart, this episode is a reminder that we already know what works. The focus now is on backing that knowledge with trust, resources and long-term commitment.  Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

    Episode 12: Unpacking What ACCO Transformation Really Means

  6. Mar 5

    Episode 11: From Yarns to Reels – How to Get Your Stories Heard in 2026

    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Eastern Arrernte and Gurindji woman and SNAICC Communications Coordinator, Dakoda Lally, joins host Michael Lynch for a powerful yarn about storytelling, social media and why our stories matter more than ever.  Dialling in from Mparntwe (Alice Springs), Dakoda reflects on the power of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander storytelling, reminding us that we are the original storytellers of this Country. She unpacks how social media can be a tool for amplifying strength-based narratives, shifting deficit discourse and showcasing the incredible work happening across the ACCO and early childhood sector. Together, they explore practical, accessible strategies for organisations wanting to strengthen their online presence in 2026, from yearly content planning and working month-by-month, to understanding the personality of each platform. Is Facebook the loose uncle at Christmas? Is Instagram the cool cousin? Is LinkedIn the polished entrepreneur? Dakoda breaks down how each space requires a different approach and why short-form vertical video is here to stay. Whether you’re new to social media or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply have a yarn and press record. Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  7. Jan 15

    Episode 10: From Strength to Strength – Celebrating 2025 and shaping 2026 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families

    In this milestone 10th episode of Kids, Culture, Community — SNAICC Yarns, host and SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle sits down with SNAICC Executive Director Mandy Taylor on Wurundjeri Country in Naarm for a reflective and forward-looking yarn. Together, they look back on the transformative year that was 2025, exploring its successes, lessons and challenges, and share their vision for 2026.  Catherine and Mandy discuss the 10th anniversary of the Family Matters report, the historic SNAICC’25 conference and the critical reforms that are reshaping how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families are supported across the country. They explore the urgent need to shift investment from crisis response to prevention, the strength of community-controlled services, and the power of storytelling to drive systemic change.  This episode also  celebrates the full establishment of SNAICC’s Youth Voice initiative, the removal of the childcare activity test and  the landmark appointment of the National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children; a key accountability mechanism long advocated for by SNAICC and the sector. Catherine and Mandy share personal highlights from the year, including the joy of Children’s Day and the inspiring voices of young people, reflecting on what it means to carry  the work of SNAICC forward with hope, determination and unity.  As we step into 2026, this yarn is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much further we can go when we listen to, invest in, and celebrate our children, families and communities.  Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

  8. 12/18/2025

    Episode 9: Wrapping Support Around Families: A Yarn with Richard Weston on Family Matters 2025

    In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, Michael speaks with Meriam man Richard Weston, CEO of Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, about the findings of the 2025 Family Matters Report and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-led solutions that work to ensure children grow up safe, cared for and connected to family and culture.  Richard shares the hard truths from a decade of data, which show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to be disproportionately represented in all stages of Australia's child protection systems. He explains how the current child protection system prioritises crisis intervention over early family support and how removal perpetuates a cycle of harm and trauma.  For over 30 years, Maari Ma in Far West NSW has proven a better way. Richard explains the organisation’s integrated, early intervention model that wraps health, family support and deep cultural connection around families. This holistic approach builds strength, keeps children safe at home and actively prevents contact with statutory systems.  He shares powerful stories from the ground, like an example of a three-year-old girl who spoke of her heart and spirit in Barkanji language, embodying the cultural pride this model nurtures. The core message from Richard is clear: to fix the system, governments must stop investing in removal and start investing in proven, community-controlled services that keep children connected to their families, culture and Country.  Content Warning: This episode discusses child removal and trauma. For 24/7 crisis support, call 13YARN (13 92 76).  Keep the conversation going—follow, subscribe, and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. Visit SNAICC’s website to learn more, access resources and find out how you can get involved.

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About

Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns is the official podcast from SNAICC – National Voice for our Children dedicated to amplifying the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities. Produced by Australia’s national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, the Kids, Culture, Community podcast fills a vital gap in the podcast landscape. With a strong focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-led solutions, each episode explores real issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families across the country—featuring expert insights, lived experience and cultural knowledge from voices of community. Tune in on your preferred podcast platform and be sure to subscribe and share the podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.

Information

  • Creator
    SNAICC – National Voice for our Children
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns
  • Show Website
    Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns

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