Key points:
- CSIRO has launched its Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), advancing from the Innovate RAP to drive deeper reconciliation efforts.
- The Stretch RAP embeds reconciliation initiatives into CSIRO's core strategies, aiming for high-impact outcomes and measurable targets that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- The launch event featured an Indigenous Business Market, cultural performances and workshops, demonstrating CSIRO's commitment to fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship and cultural engagement.
Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, launched its first Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) today, marking a significant step towards advancing reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Held at South Eveleigh in Sydney on the lands of the Gadigal People, the event brought together community members, leaders, partners and allies to celebrate Indigenous culture and entrepreneurship, reaffirming CSIRO's commitment to meaningful reconciliation.
Building upon the achievements of CSIRO's previous Innovate RAP, the Stretch RAP represents a new level of engagement for CSIRO.
This plan signals a shift towards reconciliation leadership, committing CSIRO to embedding reconciliation initiatives into its core business strategies.
Spanning three years, the Stretch RAP outlines high-impact commitments with clear, measurable targets.
It is designed for organisations like CSIRO that have already demonstrated strong, meaningful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and are ready to make reconciliation a routine part of operations.
CSIRO is proud of its achievements to date, which include 30 Indigenous-led research projects enabled by the Indigenous Research Grants program, $5.8 million invested in Indigenous STEM scholarships across 11 Australian universities, and the launch of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Principles and the Indigenous Jobs Map.
However, CSIRO recognises that reconciliation is an ongoing process, and the Stretch RAP aims to build on this foundation with even more ambitious goals.
Dr Chris Bourke is a proud Gamillaroi man and Director of CSIRO's Indigenous Science and Engagement team.
"The Stretch RAP marks a new chapter in our reconciliation journey, where Indigenous leadership and perspectives become fundamental to our work," Dr Bourke said.
"We are committed to working in respectful partnership with Indigenous Australia to deliver sustainable and holistic solutions to our nation's greatest challenges."
Louisa Warren is a proud Torres Strait Islander woman hailing from Badu Island and Executive Manager of CSIRO's Indigenous Science and Engagement team.
"Transitioning to a Stretch RAP allows us to deepen our commitment to reconciliation and create long-lasting change for the communities we partner with," Ms Warren said.
"Our Stretch RAP is about putting our commitments into action, integrating reconciliation across all levels of the organisation, and empowering Indigenous voices in scientific research and innovation."
The launch event featured an Indigenous Business Market, providing a platform for local Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, organisations and businesses to showcase their products and services.
Attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with stallholders, learn about their crafts, and make ethical purchases, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to Indigenous vendors.
The day's activities also included a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony, cultural workshops and live performances, offering an immersive experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
The timing of the RAP launch coincides with Indigenous Business Month, aligning with its goal to promote and celebrate Indigenous business success throughout Australia.
CSIRO invites the public to stay connected with its ongoing reconciliation journey. The Stretch RAP is available on CSIRO's website.
Learn more about CSIRO's Indigenous science and engagement.
