Developing a reconciliation action plan
Reconciliation is a way of building better relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal people for the benefit of all Australians. During 2013–14, the EPA commenced development of a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to document actions it can take to contribute to reconciliation in Australia.
Although the EPA had not previously published a RAP, it had implemented a number of strategies to engage with Aboriginal people and increase Aboriginal employment at the EPA:
- In 2009, the EPA developed a Remediation Action Plan to meet South Australia’s Strategic Plan target related to Aboriginal employees. Since then, it has employed Aboriginal cadets to assist with its scientific and policy advice functions. The EPA also continues to engage with a range of Aboriginal people across South Australia through various state and national initiatives.
- The EPA also sources Aboriginal employment services from the Department of Environment and Water (DEW) to promote employment opportunities to Aboriginal people, and assist with providing mentoring and support to EPA Aboriginal employees and their line managers.
- The EPA has also reported progress made towards achieving the Cultural Inclusion Framework to the Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
A draft RAP was launched for staff consultation to coincide with National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June 2014). Key features of the draft RAP are:
- a reconciliation vision that includes recognition of Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the state’s lands, water, plants and animals
- identification of engagement opportunities with Aboriginal people to address key environment projects and programs
- establishment of a RAP Working Group with an executive lead
- improving the visibility and accessibility of the EPA for Aboriginal people and communities
- investigating opportunities to further increase Aboriginal employment
- cultural awareness and anti-racism training.
The RAP is being prepared for launch in 2014–15.