Behaviour analysts and behaviour support practitioners work at the intersection of behaviour, relationships, systems and lived experience. Across disability, education, health, justice and community settings, practitioners are increasingly working alongside Aboriginal individuals, families and communities. While behaviour support is grounded in evidence-based practice, there are important risks when behaviour is viewed in isolation from the broader cultural, historical and systemic contexts that shape people’s experiences.

Aboriginal people continue to experience the impacts of colonisation, intergenerational trauma, systemic racism and institutional mistrust. These realities can influence engagement with services, relationships with practitioners, family decision-making, help-seeking behaviours and responses to support. Without an understanding of these factors, behaviour may be misunderstood, strengths overlooked, and well-intentioned interventions may inadvertently contribute to harm.

This interactive workshop explores cultural safety through a culturally trauma-informed lens and examines its practical application within behaviour support practice. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on how behaviour is interpreted, how professional power operates within service systems, and how culturally safe approaches can strengthen relationships, engagement and outcomes.

Drawing on real-world examples, case studies and facilitated discussion, the workshop will explore the connections between trauma, culture, behaviour and service delivery. Participants will be introduced to practical communication and engagement strategies, including the Speaking Safe framework, to support more culturally safe interactions with Aboriginal individuals, families and communities.

This workshop moves beyond cultural awareness and focuses on what culturally safe behaviour support looks like in practice, providing participants with practical strategies they can immediately apply within their own professional settings.