Our formal title is the National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, but we are known as TANDANYA.

TANDANYA was established in 1989 under the South Australian Associations Incorporations Act 1985. 

Tandanya sits on Kaurna (pron. Garna) land. The name is the Kaurna word for ‘place of the Red Kangaroo’.

The Kaurna people are the traditional owners and custodians of the Adelaide Plains. Tandanya’s name reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to honor and respect the traditional owners and custodians of this country.

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We are an internationally significant First Nations owned and run multi-purpose centre dedicated to supporting and promoting First Nations arts and cultures – the oldest of its kind in Australia.

We are inclusive of First Nations people and communities everywhere and invite others to walk alongside us. TANDANYA is built on respect for tradition, cultural laws and protocols. We know that culture is dynamic and changing. We are strong and accountable in our cultural work practices and show leadership in our artistic excellence.

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We bring people and communities together to share stories and build connections. We welcome experimentation and exploration in the development of creative practice. Our visitors increase their understanding and respect of First Nations arts and cultures through the exhibitions, performances and others events we present. This enabling of deeper, more respectful and meaningful relationships is nation building work, in every sense.

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​Tandanya is recognized as Australia’s leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander multi-arts and cultural venue, and has successfully promoted reconciliation with, and understanding of, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples via exhibitions and performances that feature artistic expression, participation and interaction.

 

Our Vision

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Culture. Connection. Community

TANDANYA is a place for creativity.

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Our Values

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Nurturing generations – We are committed to intergenerational knowledge transmission. It is important for our children and young people to develop the wisdom to know when things need to evolve and when things should remain constant.

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Respect – We follow cultural protocols and pay respect to our ancestors. We acknowledge the Elders and leaders who laid the foundations of TANDANYA. We are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive space for everyone.

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Integrity – We are honest and accountable. We have clear and open communication with our members, communities, partners and other stakeholders and networks.