About Us
Who are Ngunya Jarjum?
Ngunya Jarjum is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing culturally appropriate Out of Home Care and family support services across the North Coast of NSW, from Tweed to Grafton. We work with Aboriginal children, young people, families, and communities to ensure children grow up safe, connected to culture, and supported by strong family and community networks.
Our name reflects our purpose. Jarjum means First Nations children and young people, recognising their role as future leaders and cultural knowledge holders. Ngunya means “ours” in Bundjalung, so together, Ngunya Jarjum means “all our children” — a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect, nurture, and strengthen every child in our care.
Established in 1995, the organisation has grown from a small Aboriginal foster care support agency to one of the largest Aboriginal community-controlled designated agencies under the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian.
Governed by a Board of Aboriginal Directors and supported by a strong Aboriginal membership, we are proud to be one of the largest Aboriginal employers in Northern NSW.
Our Story
In 1995, Elders in Casino NSW identified the need for more Aboriginal kinship and foster carers. Community leaders recognised that Aboriginal children needed culturally safe care provided by their own people, to keep them connected to family, culture and Country.
From this vision, Ngunya Jarjum was born. Its mission was simple but powerful — to make sure that if children could not stay at home, they would be cared for safely, within an Aboriginal family, and on Country. This commitment to community-led, culturally safe care has guided our work ever since, shaping the services, values, and approach we uphold today.
Our Vision
A connected, culturally rich and thriving community where Ngunya Jarjum support our local families to nurture their children, raise them on country, and preserve our culture and strength into the future.
Vision 2025 – 2030:
Culture, Country, and Connection – empowering our Jarjums and families for generations to come, while remaining agile to the evolving needs of our community.
Our Values
Culture
We lead with culture in our practice.
Jarjum-Centred
Everything we do is in the best interests of our jarjum ensuring they are empowered to lead and thrive.
Community-Oriented
We work to meet community needs and aspirations, actively engaging with Elders leaders and families.
Family-Led
Families participate in and lead decision making where possible, ensuring cultural values are respected in all processes.
Gan Ngaa Lee La
We pay attention, listen deeply and take time to ensure meaningful relationships.
Teamwork
Our staff are dedicated to reaching the highest standards in their work. They are highly valued and supported in their wellbeing and careers.
Voice
The active involvement and agency of our jarjum and families in decision-making processes is central to all our work.