Push to include Indigenous names on mailing addresses
A movement to make Indigenous First Nations names an official part of Australian postal addresses could change the way mail is sent and received around the country.
Gomeroi woman Rachael McPhail told the ABC she’s been speaking with Australia Post to normalise the use of traditional names on address labels.
Ms McPhail is already adding the traditional names herself.
“I live in a town called Coolamon [southwest NSW], which is located on Wiradjuri Country,” she wrote on Instagram.
“When I place an online order, or have to write down my address for something, I have started to add in ‘Wiradjuri Country’ in the second address line.
“Adding in the nation or Country that you are on is something easy that all Aussies can do to be more inclusive of our Indigenous history.
“I would love for @auspost to make the original place name a standard part of address information in Australia, the same as your house number and postcode.”
Ms McPhail found out about her heritage when she was 30 and is pushing for the change in honour of her great-great-grandmother.
"She didn't tell anyone she was Aboriginal because she was protecting her family, so I celebrate my Aboriginal heritage for her because she wasn't able to," she told the ABC.
She is hoping if Australia Post takes her advice on, large corporations such as PayPal, Star Track, Uber and other businesses will follow suit.
An Australia Post spokesperson told news.com.au people are welcome to include the traditional name on their parcels and envelopes.
“We recommend the traditional name is included below the recipient's name but above the street address,” the spokesperson said.
Ms McPhail is in talks with AusPost about how the idea can be promoted.
Indigenous place names (according to Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies)
Sydney - Eora
Adelaide - Kaurna
Melbourne - Woiworung
Perth - Wajuk
Brisbane - Yuggera
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
