Perth Council House lighting aims to strengthen connection with First Nations communities
Perth Deputy Mayor David Gonclaves Image: Ngaarda Media
By Katherine Glass
The City of Perth says lighting Council House in the colours of the Aboriginal flag is part of a broader commitment to reconciliation, community connection and First Nations-led engagement.
Perth's Deputy Lord Mayor says the annual illumination of Council House in the colours of the Aboriginal flag is designed to create a stronger connection between the city and First Nations communities.
David Gonclaves said the lighting displays had evolved over more than a decade and were now used throughout the year to recognise a range of significant commemorative dates, not just during NAIDOC Week.
He said the City had spent years developing the lighting system and working with community groups to ensure the displays reflected what mattered to the people of Perth.
"We've really reached out to different community groups and asked them what's important for them to make sure there's a real connection between what we're doing at Council House and what the community wants to see," he said.
Mr Gonclaves said anyone could approach the City to request recognition of significant commemorative dates.
The lighting system has also evolved, with thousands of LED lights now capable of displaying animated designs rather than static colours.
He said the City continued to investigate new technology and opportunities to expand illuminated displays across Perth landmarks.
"We're always looking out for new ways to make that better, to make it more exciting, and also to see what other landmarks around the city can really tie in," he said, pointing to locations including Optus Stadium, Narrows Bridge and Kings Park.
Front view of Council House on St George’s terrace, Perth. Image: Ngaarda Media
Mr Gonclaves said consultation with Aboriginal Elders had been central to the project through the City's Reconciliation Action Plan.
"We've got an Elders group and it's certainly been a key part of our dialogue," he said.
"We've got an open commitment to keep working with our Elders, keep working with our First Nations community to make sure that we're doing what's right."
Asked what he hoped young Aboriginal people would feel when they saw Council House illuminated in their flag's colours, Mr Gonclaves said he wanted everyone to feel they belonged.
"I hope that everyone feels a sense of connection — that the City of Perth is a place for everyone and certainly a place for our First Nations people."
Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, Mr Gonclaves described it as a time for learning and recognising the ongoing journey towards equality.
"There's a reason why it's called Deadly. It's been about protest, it's been about dialogue, it's been about pushing to make sure there's equality in this country," he said.
"It's been an important time to recognise that we've got a lot more to do but that this council is willing to step up to that."
Looking ahead, Mr Gonclaves said the City was considering future First Nations initiatives, including discussions about bringing back the Birak concert following a motion from electors.
He said any future event would be developed in partnership with First Nations people.
"We're committed to having a roundtable and looking at that through our budget process ... it's about sitting with First Nations people in the decision making and in the dialogue ahead."
Back view of Council House in late afternoon (Left) and Early Evening. Image: Ngaarda Media