Renewed Hope and Growth for UAICC
At the Synod meeting on Sunday 13 July, members of the Synod received a significant update on the work of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC).
At the Synod meeting on Sunday 13 July, members of the Synod received a significant update on the work of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC). Delivered by Nathan Tyson, Head of First Peoples Strategy and Engagement, the report highlighted important milestones and future directions that reaffirm the Church’s Covenant relationship with First Peoples.
This update came just days after the 31st anniversary of the signing of the Covenant between the Uniting Church in Australia and the UAICC on 10 July 1994 considered to be a momentous occasion led by then-President Jill Tabart and UAICC Chairperson Pastor Bill Hollingsworth.
This Covenant remains a foundational commitment by the Church to walk in solidarity with First Peoples, and to seek justice, healing, and reconciliation.
Renewed Congress
In December 2024, Pastor Tom Sloane and Nathan Tyson were appointed as interim Co-Chairs of UAICC in NSW and the ACT by the National Executive of Congress. Their appointment signals a renewed chapter for UAICC in the region, with a clear focus on rebuilding and strengthening governance and community engagement.
Work is already underway to establish a new governance framework to support growth and sustainability, and a statewide membership drive is planned for the second half of 2025. This will culminate in a gathering of UAICC members in 2026.
Looking ahead, Congress aims to serve as a space of fellowship, learning, and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples engaged in ministry and mission.
The Synod is committed to backing this vision, including continued support for Ministry Centres in Wellington and Condobolin, and exploring the creation of a new UAICC Ministry Centre in Western Sydney, a move that could significantly enhance engagement with local communities.
Celebrating Ministry and Honouring Service
A key moment in the update was the acknowledgment of Pastor Beth Goolagong, who retired in April 2025 after 16 years of faithful ministry in Condobolin and beyond. The Synod sincerely honours Pastor Beth for her deep commitment to God and community.
Pastor Tom Sloane and his wife Stella have since relocated to Condobolin to continue the ministry work, with recruitment underway for a new leader to take up the UAICC role in Wellington.
Walking Together Action Plan in Motion
Progress under the Walking Together Action Plan 2024–2027—a core part of the Synod’s “Walking Together as First and Second Peoples” strategic pillar—was also shared with the Synod.
This includes the creation of a Local Walking Together Action Plan Template, designed to help congregations take meaningful steps toward developing relationships with First Peoples in their local context. The editable template guides churches to reflect on their current initiatives and identify future goals.
In addition, the Synod has made its Aboriginal Cultural Capability online learning modules available to all Uniting Church members. Produced by an Aboriginal-led organisation, the modules provide foundational knowledge to better understand and appreciate Aboriginal culture, history, and protocols.
Recognising that cultural understanding must also be rooted in local relationships, the Synod has organised Walking on Country events in 2025. These immersive learning opportunities has taken place in Woy Woy (24 May), Huskisson (28 June), and is set to welcome attendees to Dubbo on 13 September, allowing participants to learn directly from Elders and community members.
Strengthening Policy and Engagement
There has been encouraging progress in policy areas that support the goals of covenanting and justice.
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The Proceeds of Sale Policy is now active, allocating 3% from property sales to support Congress and First Peoples initiatives
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An Aboriginal Employment Strategy is being developed collaboratively by the Synod’s People and Culture team and the First Peoples Strategy and Engagement team
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The procurement policy is under review to identify ways to increase the inclusion of Aboriginal-owned businesses in the Synod’s supply chain
In December 2024, the Synod also welcomed Mikenzie (“Kenzie”) Ling to the First Peoples Strategy and Engagement Team. Kenzie, a Wiradjuri woman with a Master of Theology, brings a depth of experience working with both Aboriginal and Pacifika Christian networks, and is active in global First Nations ministry through her connections with the World Council of Churches.
Continuing the Journey
Since its founding in 1985, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress has stood as a prophetic voice and spiritual home for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christians. Its establishment was shaped by leaders such as Rev. Charles Harris, Rev. Dorothy Gordon-Harris, Professor Anne Pattel-Gray, and Aunty Pearl Wymarra.
Now, in 2025, the Congress in NSW and the ACT is embracing a new chapter one that builds on the past and looks forward with courage, faith, and unity. The Synod recommits to walking together in covenant, standing in solidarity with First Peoples, and continuing the journey of healing and justice led by the Creator Spirit.