The City has been working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to develop the region’s first ever Reconciliation Action Plan, which was last night unanimously adopted by council. This significant plan will pave the way towards reconciliation within the City of Greater Geelong and in the community.
The plan outlines practical actions for the City, that build on advancing a positive relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and non-Indigenous people and demonstrate respect and self-determination for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The plan also ensures equality of opportunity and access in all dealings with the community.
The City’s Reconciliation Action Plan is set by Reconciliation Australia and its theme is Reflect. It has been developed around the themes of Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance.
It’s based on priorities and aspirations identified through consultation with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, City staff and the community.
Some of the actions include:
- Promote reconciliation through the City’s sphere of influence;
- Promote positive race relations through anti-discrimination strategies;
- Increase understanding, value and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights through cultural learning;
- Create a physical environment within the Greater Geelong region that is respectful, welcoming and inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples; and
- Improve employment outcomes by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development.
Some actions have been completed since starting the plan’s process last year.
Reconciliation Australia will need to endorse the plan.
The Traditional Owners of the land, the Wadawurrung People, have lived in the Greater Geelong region for more than 25,000 years. The City has the largest population of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people in any local government area in Victoria.
The Reconciliation Action Plan can be viewed in the 14 April council agenda.
Councillor Stephanie Asher – Mayor
The Reconciliation Action Plan is a significant document that reflects council’s commitment to reconciliation with the Traditional Owners in Greater Geelong. My fellow councillors and I were proud to support this important piece of work.
The City is dedicated to carrying out the actions in the plan, which will increase understanding, provide support and offer improved opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Councillor Sarah Mansfield – Chair, Social Inclusion portfolio
Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have a long and proud history and vibrant culture in Greater Geelong. The diversity and complexity of this community cannot be underestimated, nor its contributions to our region.
This Reconciliation Action Plan is a significant moment for our council. The plan marks the start of a journey for us in council and in the community, that involves continuous learning and growth by clearly setting out priorities and actions that will drive the City’s contribution to reconciliation.
