BDO Australia, a prominent accounting and audit firm, has launched an internal investigation following alleged derogatory comments made by a senior partner regarding the Acknowledgement of Country. The incident occurred during a national town hall meeting for the firm's projects and infrastructure advisory group in July.
The unnamed executive reportedly declined to deliver an Acknowledgement of Country, a statement recognizing the traditional custodians of the land. This occurred despite the acknowledgment appearing on every page of the firm's website. Tim Reardon, chief commissioner of Infrastructure Australia, a guest panellist at the meeting, subsequently delivered his own acknowledgment.
DAVID GARVEY, BDO's chief executive partner, stated on Wednesday that he was "deeply disappointed by what occurred and that we did not meet the standards and values we are committed to upholding." He added that the remarks made were "unacceptable, inconsistent with BDO's values and do not reflect the inclusive, respectful and people-centric culture we expect across our firm."
Garvey confirmed that the firm is treating the matter seriously and that an internal investigation is underway to determine the facts and appropriate next steps. He noted that BDO is in communication with the individual concerned and those who attended the event. The firm has stated it does not tolerate conduct that undermines its commitments to embedding respectful practices, fostering cultural understanding, and building relationships with First Nations stakeholders.
The incident has reportedly caused discomfort among BDO's guests and upset staff. The senior partner, currently overseas on annual leave, is understood to have acknowledged that his comments were inappropriate. The firm's internal investigation is ongoing.
An Acknowledgement of Country is a practice to show respect for the traditional custodians of the land where an event takes place. Unlike a Welcome to Country, which must be performed by traditional owners, an Acknowledgement of Country can be delivered by anyone. BDO Australia's website includes a statement acknowledging the traditional custodians of Country throughout Australia and paying respect to Elders past and present.
This event follows a separate incident where three One Nation senators turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country in the Australian federal parliament. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has previously expressed her intention to scrap Welcome to Country ceremonies in schools, government departments, and official events.