The Australian Government is deepening cultural cooperation with India, building on our strong relationship and people-to-people links.

Prime Minister Albanese has welcomed progress to repatriate an Australian First Nations ancestor held in the Government Museum of Chennai.

The ancestor will be voluntarily and unconditionally repatriated by India to their Traditional Custodians.

The repatriation of ancestors to their Traditional Custodians is a priority for First Nations people and represents some of the most important and respectful work governments can undertake. India’s agreement to repatriate reflects the strong cultural relationship and mutual respect between our two countries.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also announced the voluntary return of several items of cultural significance to India previously held in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia and Art Gallery of NSW.

The voluntary returns demonstrate Australia’s ongoing commitment to being an international leader in the ethical collection of cultural material and best-practice collection management.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“Australia and India share a deep history, and we are building strong people-to-people links between our two countries.

“The repatriation of First Nations ancestors promotes healing, justice and reconciliation.

“I commend Prime Minister Modi for the decision to repatriate Australian First Nations ancestors to their Traditional Custodians.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for the Arts Tony Burke

“The repatriation of ancestors and the voluntary return of items of cultural significance are both examples of the values shared between Australia and India.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy

“Every repatriation of ancestors from overseas is an act of truth-telling and righting wrongs of the past.

“I welcome India’s repatriation efforts, as we continue to work to return First Nations ancestors to their Country and their people.”