A Guide To Exploring Indigenous Melbourne

Known as the Kulin Nation to its traditional owners, Melbourne has a rich Indigenous culture dating back more than 40,000 years. Through these six immersive experiences, you can discover Indigenous history and art, tuck into bush food and explore the legacy of the Kulin Nation.

1. Charcoal Lane

Restaurant, Australian

Mission Australia’s social enterprise Charcoal Lane provides mentoring and support to young, vulnerable Indigenous Australians. Under the guidance of executive chef Greg Hampton, the trainees are taught a curriculum of hospitality skills to enforce self-confidence. Together the team prepares contemporary Australians meals, which champion native ingredients including spiced roasted emu fillet with beetroot and lemon tea tree soufflé, Pumpkin and pepper leaf gnocchi with macadamia and warrigal greens pesto, and the Lemon Myrtle meringue pie.

2. Koorie Heritage Trust

Art Gallery, Museum

Located at Federation Square, the Koorie Heritage Trust is an Indigenous not-for-profit cultural center which supports and celebrates Australia’s South Eastern Indigenous people. Open seven days a week, the Koorie Heritage Trust is home to Victoria’s only dedicated public collection of Koorie art and culturally significant artefacts including a photographic collection, Oral History Program and a Reference Library.