The City of Perth welcomed Aboriginal Elders, members of the Whadjuk Working Party, the CEO of Reconciliation WA, external RAP Working Group members and Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal stakeholders and community members to celebrate the symbolic milestone.
Chair of Commissioners Eric Lumsden said the City of Perth was focused on the journey towards reconciliation after spending 14 months working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to develop the RAP.
“This is a proud moment for the City of Perth as we celebrate our first RAP alongside the Traditional Landowners, and acknowledging wrongs that have occurred is important as we work conscientiously and courageously to reconcile the community,” Mr Lumsden said.
“Here, on Country where our troubled relationship first began as Western Australians, the City is taking real steps towards genuine partnership and trust with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to arrive at a place of acknowledgement and commitment.”
With 71 actions in the Reflect RAP, Mr Lumsden said there was a strong emphasis on building the foundations for relationships, respect and opportunity while developing a positive internal ethos and cultural awareness at the City, particularly about Whadjuk Nyoongar history and cultures.
“The City will continue to grow our focus and commitment to building respectful relationships and opportunities with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Mr Lumsden said.
“Through the RAP, the City is engaging in a sincere and formal process of reconciliation with Aboriginal peoples (particularly Whadjuk Nyoongar people) and collaborating with the Traditional Owners has helped the City to learn about the history and culture of Aboriginal peoples as we strive for the common goal of reconciliation.”
The launch comes before National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June).
Issued by: Caitlin Tiller, Corporate Communications Officer, Strategic Projects, 0437 814 514, Caitlin.tiller@cityofperth.wa.gov.au
Image: Michael Fuller performs Didgeridoo at the City's Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan launch.
Image: A crocheted blanket presented to the City of Perth by Aboriginal Elder Aunty Margaret Culbong.
Image: An Aboriginal Smoking Ceremony at the City's Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan launch.
Background:
The City of Perth’s Reflect RAP was adopted in February 2018, and endorsed by Reconciliation Australia in April.
A RAP is a framework that uses a holistic approach to create meaningful relationships, enhanced respect and promote sustainable opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It is the action plan for an organisation to realise their vision for reconciliation.
The four levels of a RAP include Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate.