- BusseltonDepartment of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) ServiceCentrefirstinWestern Australia to receive Aboriginalplacename
- CentreofficiallydualnamedDjooditj(pronouncedDjooditch) acknowledging the significance and value of Aboriginal living culture in the regions where DTMIservicecentresoperate
The Busselton Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) Service Centre has become the first location in Western Australia to receive an Aboriginal name under the Transport and Major Infrastructure Portfolio's Aboriginal Placenames Project.
Theprojectaims to deepen public understanding of Aboriginal language, history, and cultural heritage. By incorporating Aboriginallanguageinto service centres across the State, the initiativeaims tosupport reconciliation and fosters cultural awareness while recognising the enduring connection ofAboriginal peopletocountry.
Djooditjis the Noongar term for the Western Quoll, WA's largest native carnivore, traditionally found throughout the jarrah forests of theSouthWest. The name and its cultural significance were shared by the Wardandi, Bibulmun/Piblemen and Kaneangpeople of the Noongarnation, in collaboration with KarriKarrakAboriginal Corporation.
The story of the Djooditj is also reflected in artwork created by Noongar artist Melissa Spillman from Maarakool Art, which is featured on the exterior of the Busselton DTMI Service Centre. The original artwork, which inspired the building design, was formally presented to Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation as part of the announcement event.
Using Djooditj as the dual name for the Busselton centre honours Noongar living culture and symbolises the journey each community member undertakes when accessing licensing and transport services. Just as the Djooditj skilfully navigates varied landscapes, the centre supports people embarking on their own paths toward independence, opportunity, and growth.
Busselton is the first of 19 DTMI service centres across Western Australia set to receive a dual name through the project, with work already underway for the next locations in Kalgoorlie and Carnarvon.
Comments attributed to Minister Assisting the Transport Minister Jessica Stojkovski:
"The Aboriginal Placenames Project wasinitiatedto acknowledge the significance and value of Aboriginal living culture and cultural heritage in the locations where our DTMI service centres operate.
"This project provides an opportunity for visitors to our centres to learn about and engage with Aboriginal language and culture, which is vital for reconciliation. It fosters cultural awareness, strengthens identity for Aboriginal people, and promotes healing.
"It was a privilege to officially unveil the artwork, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Wardandi, Bibulmun/Piblemen and Kaneang people who, in collaboration with the Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation, have shared the cultural significance and story behind the name Djooditj, chosen for the Busselton site.
"Djooditj refers to the Western Quoll, whose preferred habitat is the jarrah forests of the southwestern corner of WA.
"Busselton is the first of 19 locations across the State that will be dualnamed as part of this important project, with Kalgoorlie and Carnarvon next in line."
Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"Recognising Aboriginal place names in our everyday spaces is a practical and respectful way to acknowledge the deep and continuing connection of Noongar people to Country, while building broader understanding across the community.
"There is nothing more Australian than recognising Aboriginal heritage.
"The adoption of Djooditj at the Busselton service centre reflects the importance of Aboriginal language and living culture and shows how respectful partnerships can strengthen reconciliation across Western Australia."
