9 Welcome to Country Protocols for welcoming visitors to Country have always been a part of First Nations cultures. Boundaries were clear, and crossing into another group’s Country required a request for permission to enter. Today, while these protocols have been adapted to contemporary circumstances, the essential elements remain: welcoming visitors and respect for Country. Welcome to Country is delivered by Traditional Owners, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have been given permission from Traditional Owners to welcome visitors to their Country.910 Welcoming Cities Welcoming Cities is a national local government network of cities, shires, towns and municipalities committed to an Australia where everyone can belong and participate in social, cultural, economic and civic life.10 Reconciliation Australia (2024) Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country, accessed 19 February 2024 10 Welcoming Cities (2024) What is Welcoming Cities, accessed 19 February 2024