Over the last 12 months we have been working closely with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, Traditional Owners and the wider community to develop the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The Innovate RAP is a two-year commitment and is the second phase to Council’s reconciliation journey.

Community and stakeholder consultation was held during November 2021 through to December 2021. Feedback was received from 202 community members including representatives from Indigenous organisations, Traditional Owner groups, the registered Aboriginal party, the external Aboriginal Advisory Committee and the internal RAP working Group.

The draft Innovate RAP was exhibited on Council’s Have Your Say page from 11 April to 3 May 2022. Over 600 community members visited the Have Your Say page on the draft RAP and 6 of these provided feedback.

Through this process we heard from a wide range of community members that contributed their ideas on how Council can build and strengthen relationships, show respect, and improve opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The ideas have been used to create a framework that will guide Council in achieving its vision for, and commitment to protecting and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage, and the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Bayside.

Read more about the community engagement results

We will be seeking Council endorsement for the RAP at its meeting on 28 June 2022.

The Innovate RAP requires Council to develop and strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, engage staff and external stakeholders in reconciliation, as well as develop and pilot strategies to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Innovate RAP includes 20 actions and 98 deliverables over the next two years.