National Reconciliation Week (NRW), is an important time for all Australians to pause, reflect and contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia by acknowledging the trauma experienced by First Nations peoples.
In honour of Reconciliation Week commencing today on May 27 and running to June 3, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) officially released the 2024-2027 Reframing the Relationship Plan at a luncheon held at Roma Street Police Headquarters.
The Reframing the Relationship Plan is a critical step in the shared journey towards building the cultural capability of the QPS and continuing to promote positive change in the organisation and is framed around eight key principles that highlight the importance of providing a professional service to First Nations peoples and communities built on partnerships and meaningful relationships.
This year’s NRW theme of ‘Now More Than Ever’, a reminder of the need for reconciliation and a celebration of the many diverse cultures that constitute Australia, was brought to life at the QPS headquarters luncheon through the creation of a collaborative painting.
The collaborative painting encouraged all QPS members and visitors to make a tangible commitment to reconciliation by contributing to the artwork.
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski applauded the work being undertaken by First Nations people within and outside of the wider QPS.
“The QPS acknowledges the valuable role our First Nations people play in our organisation, community and with our partners,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“The launch of the Reframing the Relationship Plan marks a positive step in our journey to reconciliation.
“It recognises the pathway to strengthen respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Together, we can embrace, respect, and celebrate Queensland’s First Nations people.”
First Nations Division Executive Director Alan Dewis opened by acknowledging the need for reconciliation, citing the critical importance of inclusivity amongst the community.
“Now more than ever, is the time for reconciliation,” Executive Director, Alan Dewis said.
“First Nations peoples are among the most marginalised in our country, representing only up to four per cent of our population.
“Reconciliation Week is a wonderful opportunity for reflection and echoes the sentiments of our newly launched Reframing the Relationship Plan which seeks to acknowledge and support our First Nations community members.
“Through these positive steps, we can better ensure all of our community members are respected and cared for.”
For more information, and to read the full 2024-2027 Reframing the Relationship Plan – please visit the Queensland Police Service website.
