Relationships and respect at the heart of Reconciliation Action Plan

Relationship building and respect are driving the implementation of Kingston’s first Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).  

Since the adoption of the RAP in April 2022, Kingston has been working with Traditional Owners from The Bunurong Land Council, the Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place, community groups and schools on a range of events, projects, and initiatives.  

Kingston Mayor Hadi Saab said he is proud Council has taken a strong stand on this very important issue.  

“This important work is all about providing tangible and substantive benefits for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by increasing equity and supporting First Nation’s self-determination,” Cr Saab said.  

Among the key achievements to this point are:  

• Endorsing the Uluṟu Statement from the Heart.  
• The development and design of Acknowledgement of Country decals in collaboration with the Bunurong Land Council and RAP Advisory Group to be displayed in Council buildings.  
• Expanded NAIDOC Week celebrations.  
• Supporting the Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place to deliver a wide range of new programs and community events.  
• The RAP Working Group completed cultural competency training at the Koori Heritage Trust and senior leaders completed cultural immersion training. 

“The RAP not only provides us with a strong framework, but importantly includes definite commitments and has allowed us to be aspirational as we strive to advance reconciliation on both a local and national scale,” Cr Saab added. 

“We are fortunate to have some terrific partners within Kingston and we want to continue to lead the push for positive change.” 

Menchie Khairuddin

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Menchie Khairuddin is a writer Deputy Content Manager at Akolade and content producer for Third Sector News. She is passionate about social affairs specifically in mixed, multicultural heritage and not-for-profit organisations.

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