Southern Grampians Reconciliation Action Plan Formally Endorsed

Published on 20 December 2024

Southern Grampians Shire Council received endorsement from Reconciliation Australia for the newly developed Southern Grampians Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan late last month. 

The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a document that enables organisations to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation with First Nations communities.  

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said it was an achievement to have the Plan endorsed by Reconciliation Australia and is an important step forward. 

“It’s the right step in moving forward together as a community to achieve reconciliation and it is great that our plan, which was conditionally endorsed in July, has now received full endorsement,” said Cr Heslin. 

“The plan is built around the core pillars of relationships, respect and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, increasing equity and supporting First Nations self-determination.  

“This is our formal commitment to support our communities First Nations peoples’ rights, culture, heritage, needs and aspirations.  

“It’s a whole-organisation approach to explore, develop and embed strategies towards reconciliation through strengthening our relationships, providing opportunities for education and also recognition of culture within our community. 

“This Plan has been led by Council’s First Nations Community Engagement Officer, Staycee Charles, and developed together with a Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group made up of internal and external stakeholders. 

“Some of the actions already implemented include an ongoing commitment to reconciliation events and partnerships, internal training and cultural awareness activities, story-time at the Library, special performances at the Hamilton PAC and more.  

“The RAP is just the first stage to a long reconciliation journey and is quite an achievement, so we look forward to seeing great things come from this plan for the future of reconciliation in the Southern Grampians Shire,” concluded Cr Heslin.  

There are four stages with Reconciliation Action Plans, Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate. With each stage, the deliverables expand making the reconciliation process more meaningful for all involved. The Reflect stage focuses on the internal policies and procedures for the organisation so that it is a culturally safe and understanding environment for First Nations Peoples.  

The RAP is available via the Council website at www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au.