We're excited to announce the adoption of our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024-26 (RAP).
The RAP outlines our commitment to building respectful relationships and creating meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Developed with guidance from Reconciliation Australia, this Plan represents a significant step forward in our Reconciliation journey.
Earlier this year, we reached out to our community to gather ideas on how we can strengthen connections with local First Nations peoples, businesses, and organisations.
We conducted two rounds of consultation, in early 2024 and again in June, working closely with local Indigenous groups like the Bunurong Land Council, First People's Assembly, and the Willum Warrain Gathering Place.
We'd like to thank everyone who provided their thoughts and insights during the consultation process. The feedback we received was invaluable in shaping the final RAP.
What's in the RAP?
The adopted RAP 2024-26 includes a range of actions aligning with key legislative frameworks, including the Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Strategy and the Local Government Act 2020.
Some of the key actions include:
- Beginning an Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC): This committee, made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, will provide cultural advice and guidance to the Shire, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making. This adds valuable lived experience advice to help Council in its decision making, as does a range of other existing advisory committees of Council including Peninsula Advisory Committee for Elders, Disability Advisory Committee and Triple A Housing Committee.
- Youth programs: We'll be running programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to learn about and connect with culture.
- Employment initiatives: We're committed to employment outcomes by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development.
- Cultural protocols: A strengthened protocol for the acknowledgment of significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dates and of the passing of important Aboriginal people in our Flying of Flags policy.
- Acknowledging 26 January: Consulting with the community on options for acknowledging the significance of 26 January and how our community would like to continue to celebrate it. The recommendation does not propose to change the date of Australia Day.
To view the RAP click here
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Simon Brooks:
"Adopting this RAP is a significant milestone for our Council and our community.
"Our RAP is about building a united community. The Indigenous Advisory Committee will offer valuable cultural insights, with all recommendations going through Council for consideration, just like our other advisory committees.
"Council is also committed to hearing from the community on how we should continue to acknowledge Australia Day. This RAP does not propose changing the date but rather seeks to understand and respect the different meanings this day holds for our community.
"This Plan will guide us as we work to protect and promote Indigenous cultural heritage and support the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the Mornington Peninsula."
