Aboriginal Catholic Social Services

Aboriginal Catholic Social Services (ACSS) is a part of Centacare Catholic Social Services (CCSS) in the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta.

Mission statement

To serve in an Aboriginal way, under the leadership and decision-making of the Aboriginal committee. ACSS strives to assist, nourish and facilitate the sharing and enrichment of all Aboriginal people so as to bridge the gap between Aboriginal people and the rest of the Australian Community.

ACSS Team

Daisy Barker, Janice Brown, Judy Curry, Jenny Ebsworth, June Farrell, Margaret Farrell, Janice Kennedy, Sharon Mumbler, Rhonda Randall, Victoria Warner.

Supporting Team

Fr Phil Medlin CSsR Director/ Chaplain, Sr Margaret Lambert RSJ, Sr Naomi Smith RSJ, Sr Frances Flemming RSJ, Mrs Neroli Stratti.

The ACSS symbol

The ACSS symbol (Copyright. Janice Brown (ACSS))

The symbol of ACSS was created by artist and ACSS member, Janice Brown. Below, Janice explains the meaning behind the various elements of the artwork.

The inner circle represents the table for gathering at ACSS
The cream chairs around the inner circle represent eight Aboriginal women volunteer Members
The white dots around the chairs represent the people the ACSS has helped and supported
The purple chairs represent the Catholic Church
The gold chairs represent the employed and volunteer members
The copper chairs represent the men who contribute to our ongoing work
The cream dots around the painting represent the prayers and hope for all ATSI people, Australia-wide, for the future
The dove was chosen as a symbol of peace and hope
The roads from the centre are tracks leading us back to our ancestral home and tribes
The red dots along the path represent our message stick ensuring our stories are heard and help build understanding.