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We are committed to fostering and embedding a workplace culture grounded in respect, understanding and appreciation for First Nations peoples’ cultures, sovereignty, histories and rights. Through active engagement, learning, sharing and celebration, we strive to create a supportive, respectful and inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes reconciliation. We embed reconciliation initiatives in our organisational framework and ensure First Nations perspectives are considered and reflected in all facets of our work. Together, we strive to empower representation, reconciliation and contribute to an equitable future of mutual respect and understanding.
| Action | Deliverable | Timeline | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5. Increase understanding, value and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights through cultural learning. | 5.1. Conduct a review of cultural learning needs within our organisation. | June 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division |
| 5.2. Consult Traditional Owners and/or First Nations advisors to inform a Cultural Capability Development Plan. | June 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division | |
| 5.3. Develop, implement, communicate and regularly review a cultural learning action plan for all staff. | June 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division | |
| 5.4. Introduce progressive cultural learning offerings for all staff, including face-to-face training sessions with local First Nations providers in addition to our existing online training – mandated reporting will apply to employees at the APS 6 classification and above. | November 2027 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division | |
| 5.5. Develop and implement a First Nations Employment Manager Guide which includes building capability to provide culturally safe workspaces. | August 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division |
| Action | Deliverable | Timeline | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6. Demonstrate respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by observing cultural protocols. | 6.1. Increase staff understanding of the purpose and significance behind cultural protocols, including Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country protocols. | February 2026 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: First Assistant Secretary, Employment Strategy and Policy |
| 6.2. Develop, implement and communicate cultural protocols, including protocols for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country, in partnership with local Traditional Owners. | November 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division | |
| 6.3. Invite local Traditional Owners and Custodians to provide Welcome to Country or other ceremonies at significant events each year. | May 2026 May 2027 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: Assistant Secretary, PALM Operations Policy | |
| 6.4. Include an Acknowledgement of Country or other appropriate protocols at the commencement of important meetings. | February 2026 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: First Assistant Secretary, Employment Strategy and Policy | |
| 6.5. Publish a First Nations terminology style guide on the intranet to help staff when referring to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander words and cultures. | February 2026 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: First Assistant Secretary, Employment Strategy and Policy | |
| 6.6. Develop and implement a communications strategy to acknowledge historically significant dates and histories for First Nations peoples. | September 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division |
| Action | Deliverable | Timeline | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7. Build respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements by celebrating NAIDOC Week. | 7.1. Review our HR policies, procedures and guidance to reduce barriers to staff participating in departmental NAIDOC Week events. | July 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division |
| 7.2. Promote and encourage staff to participate in external NAIDOC events to all staff. | July 2026 July 2027 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: First Assistant Secretary, Employment Strategy and Policy | |
| 7.3. RAP Working Group members to participate in an external NAIDOC Week event at least once per year over the life of this RAP. | July 2026 July 2027 | Chair, RAP Working Group | |
| 7.4. Develop and implement annual activities to support the celebration of NAIDOC Week. This includes creating and sharing culturally appropriate events with access to funding where necessary. | July 2026 July 2027 | Lead: First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division Support: Assistant Secretary, PALM Operations Policy | |
| 7.5. Recognise and celebrate the achievements of First Nations staff with the creation of a permanent intranet page. | May 2026 | First Assistant Secretary, People and Communication Division |