Published on Friday, 16 March 2018 at 10:54:20 AM
A number of programs and projects to work towards reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will go ahead as part of the City of Greater Geraldton’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
The RAP 2017-2020 was adopted at the last Ordinary Meeting of Council and reflects the City’s commitment to the process of reconciliation in supporting the challenges of closing the gap of disadvantage.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the RAP outlines the City’s strategies to provide equitable access to Aboriginal people.
“We really want to build capacity, support and respond to the current and future identified needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders,” he said.
“This is the third RAP undertaken by the City and in the last two years the strategic document has led to some very significant achievements so we know how important it is.
“The Plan aims to not only strengthen the links between the City and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, but also improve social outcomes for the communities by advocating for improved services.”
The RAP is the culmination of over three years’ community consultation and close collaboration with national peak body ‘Reconciliation Australia’.
The plan will be overseen by a Reconciliation Advisory Committee, who meet regularly to review the progress of the City in working towards the actions outlined in the RAP.
The Committee is comprised of representatives from various agencies and groups representing the aboriginal community, two community members and four City of Greater Geraldton Councillors.
At the same Council Meeting, the revised Welcome to Country Guide was also acknowledged.
The revised document included a change in the spelling of the word Yamaji to ‘Yamatji’ to reflect the spelling used by the current Native Title Groups.
The Welcome to Country Guide reinforces the City’s commitment to ensuring that a Welcome to Country is observed whenever appropriate in a manner that is consistent and respectful.
The City would like to thank the Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation Lawyers and Traditional Owners for providing updates and assistance with new information on the Native Title Groups in our boundary.
There is currently an Expression of Interest for a community member to join the Reconciliation Advisory Committee. Those who may be interested can seek more information by contacting the City on 9956 6600.
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