Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
MELTON CITY COUNCIL
2010-2014 Reconciliation Action Plan - 2012/13 Review
2
Contents
1. Executive Summary ........................................................................................... 3
2. Context ............................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Reconciliation .............................................................................................. 4
2.2 Reconciliation Action Plan program ............................................................. 4
2.3 City of Melton Indigenous community .......................................................... 5
2.4 Council‟s vision for reconciliation ................................................................. 6
2.5 Council‟s position......................................................................................... 6
3. Methodology .................................................................................................... 8
4. Achievements and Opportunities ................................................................... 9
4.1 Relationships ............................................................................................... 9
4.2 Respect and recognition ............................................................................ 10
4.3 Opportunities and inclusion ....................................................................... 12
4.4 Reporting and tracking progress and outcomes ........................................ 13
5. Risk Analysis ................................................................................................. 14
Appendices
Appendix One: Reconciliation Action Table Progress May 2013
3
1. Executive Summary
Reconciliation aims for all Australians to work together to address the
underlying causes of division and inequality between Indigenous and non-
Indigenous people. It is an action driven process that when effective can
provide beneficial outcomes for all Australians1.
Melton Shire Council‟s Reconciliation Action Plan 2010-2014 (“the Plan”) is
Council‟s commitment to building mutually respectful relationships between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to generate understanding,
acceptance and inclusion in our local and wider community2.
The Plan was adopted by Council at its 26 July 2010 meeting, with a life of 4
years.
The Plan consists of reconciliation principles, a statement of commitment and
an Action Plan that has committed Council to nineteen actions under the
following four themed areas:
1. Relationships;
2. Respect and Recognition;
3. Opportunities and Inclusion; and
4. Reporting and Tracking Progress and Outcomes.
Of the 19 actions, Council has to date achieved delivery of 13 items. With 12
months remaining until completion (end date 26 July 2014), there are
opportunities to continue to build on achievements and to complete all actions
contained within the Plan.
The purpose of this Reconciliation Action Plan Review (“the review”) is to
provide Council with an internal evaluation of Council‟s progress in delivering
on committed actions; provide information for the public reporting of the plan;
identify collaborative opportunities to implement actions to overcome
challenges and barriers to delivery; and considerations for Reconciliation
planning moving forward.
The information contained in this review provides an opportunity for Council to
strengthen its involvement and leadership of Reconciliation within the City of
Melton and the wider Indigenous community that can translate into significant
positive outcomes for all residents in the City of Melton.
1 Reconciliation Australia, www.reconciliationaustralia.org.au
2 Melton City Council Reconciliation Action Plan 2010-2014
4
2. Context
The following sections provide a summary of what Reconciliation means, the
purpose of the Reconciliation Action Plan program, demographics of the local
Indigenous community and Council‟s vision and position in the Reconciliation
process to provide improved understanding and context of the review:
2.1 Reconciliation
Reconciliation, in a broad context, means the „coming together‟ of
Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to address the underlying
reasons that cause division and inequality between Indigenous and
non-Indigenous Australians.
It is about building better relationships between Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community for the
benefit of all Australians.
The process of reconciliation reaches beyond the acknowledgment and
recognition of Australia‟s First People, it is an action driven process that
aims to overcome the health and wellbeing disparities that exist
between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
For the process and action of reconciliation to be effective,
reconciliation must be everyone‟s business with a firm commitment to
work together to provide benefits for all Australians.3
2.2 Reconciliation Action Plan program
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program requires organisations
to develop business plans that document what they will do within their
sphere of influence to contribute to reconciliation in Australia.
RAPs outline practical actions an organisation will take to build strong relationships and enhanced respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. A RAP also sets out the organisation‟s aspirational plans to drive greater equality by pursuing sustainable opportunities.
Put simply, the RAP Program is about working with organisations across Australia to turn their good intentions into real actions.4
3 Reconciliation Australia, www.reconciliationaustralia.org.au
4 Reconciliation Australia, www.reconciliationaustralia.org.au
5
2.3 City of Melton Indigenous community
The traditional owners of the land on which the City of Melton spans
are the Wurundjeri and Wathaurong people.
Wurundjeri country includes all land east of the Werribee River to the
Melton LGA boundary. Wathaurong country includes all land west of
the Werribee River to the Melton LGA boundary. See below:
2012 Census data indicates that the City of Melton is home to a
growing Indigenous community that has increased by 65% in the period
2006 to 2011, with a total of 792 indigenous residents.
The Indigenous population is young with 50% under 25 years and a
median age of 21, which significantly younger than the median age of
32 years for non-Indigenous residents.
6
The large increases in Indigenous population in the City of Melton can
be attributed to several factors that include migration from the inner
metropolitan areas as costs of living increases, housing availability and
affordability and the young population maturing and having families of
their own.
The Indigenous population in the City of Melton experiences similar
issues of disadvantage and disparity as other Indigenous populations
around Australia.
Life expectancy of Indigenous people in the City of Melton is
approximately 10 years less than that of non-Indigenous residents.
Some of the reasons for this discrepancy are due to the large
disparities in the social determinants of health that exist between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. For example there are
lower levels of higher education attainment by Indigenous people than
non-Indigenous people with research suggesting a strong link between
education and socio-economic status. It is already known that those
with a lower socio-economic status have poorer health outcomes and
lower levels of health and wellbeing.
The municipality‟s Indigenous population consists of traditional owners
and Indigenous people from many areas around Australia. Kirrip
Aboriginal Corporation is a locally located Indigenous organisation that
represents a portion of Melton‟s local Indigenous community.
Wurundjeri Council and Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation represent
the interests of traditional owners.
2.4 Council’s vision for reconciliation
“A united Australia which respects this land of ours, values the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and provides justice and
equity for all”5
2.5 Council’s position
Council is ideally placed to provide leadership on Reconciliation as it
builds relationships and delivers services at the local community level.
Council‟s role and responsibility is via a committed, whole of
organisation implementation approach.
The Reconciliation Plan 2010-14 demonstrates Council‟s commitment
to bringing about important changes and improvements that will result
7
in benefits for all including the younger generations of our Aboriginal
and Torres Islander residents so they can live proudly as descendants
of the First Australians, the traditional owners of this land.6
Of key importance to the achievement of Reconciliation is the need for
all of us to work together in partnership and with full regard for the need
of self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Australians. Of equal importance is ensuring that Council maintains its
commitments to deliver on the actions in this Plan.
6 Melton City Council Reconciliation Action Plan 2010-2014.
8
3. Methodology
The review was conducted via interviewing relevant Council service
departments, responsible for leading the committed actions in Melton
Council‟s Reconciliation Action Plan 2011-2014. These interviews provided a
detailed understanding of progress to date, and a supportive approach in
recognising and working together to meet the challenges and barriers to
achieving delivery and inform future planning and actions.
The Interview context was established by distributing pre-interview information
informing staff of the requirement for Council to publicly report progress
towards achieving the plan. It provided clarity of the purpose and function of
the review, with an attached copy of the action items committed by Council.
Staff were able prepare to engage with the review to capture the progress,
achievements and challenges in delivering the plan.
During interviews, respondents provided information on the progress and
challenges in delivering each action item their department was responsible
for. This information was recorded and reported back to respondents for
accuracy and then tabulated (Appendix 1).
The information was analysed to evaluate Council‟s progress to deliver on the
committed actions before the expiration of the Reconciliation Action Plan (26
July 2014), and identify measures required for delivery.
Findings from the evaluation process have been categorised into
achievements and opportunities for action to deliver the plan commited
actions over the final implementation stage of the plan.
Information and learning from this review process has been utilised to identify
areas of opportunity for improvement, to provide support in informing Council
to consider future commitment and participation in moving the Reconciliation
process forward.
Informal interviews were also conducted with the local and wider Indigenous
community to inform an understanding of the context and raise issues from
their perspective.
9
4. Achievements and Opportunities
The Plan contains four action areas being:
1. Relationships,
2. Respect and recognition,
3. Opportunities and inclusion, and
4. Reporting and tracking progress and outcomes.
This section details these four areas and provides a summary of the
achievements to date, followed by opportunities for action that will support the
delivery of the plans commitments over the final year.
For a comprehensive documentation of the achievements to date, please see
attached (Appendix 1).
4.1 Relationships
Council’s respectful, genuine and active relationships with
traditional owner groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
community groups, Indigenous governance networks, residents,
service providers and others are the foundation for appropriate
and meaningful action and change
Council has built relationships within the City of Melton Indigenous
community and continues to be proactive in further strengthening and
expanding these relationships. For example, the relationship with the
Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation has continued to grow and strengthen
through mutual respect and understanding that has provided several
opportunities to undertake activities as a partnership such as
Indigenous art workshops, Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week activities
that include the Spring Dance and the recent “Let‟s Talk Recognition”
Forum. These outcomes enrich the community and provide excellent
examples of reconciliation.
Council has broadened relationships with the Indigenous community to
include individual community members, traditional owners, Indigenous
organisations and stakeholders by actively and consistently engaging
individual community members, traditional owners and stakeholders at
events, network meetings and community gatherings.
Approaches Council has adopted to build relationships with the
Indigenous community, service providers and stakeholders is through
10
more direct engagement, participation on working groups and
committees, and by providing support and assistance in a range of
capacities. Examples include participation on various networks that
include the Local Indigenous Network (LIN), Regional Aboriginal
Justice Advisory Committee (RAJAC) and support of the Journey to
Recognition Campaign.
Opportunities
Improving current and building new relationships are critical to Council
strengthening its role in contributing to positive and permanent change.
The following opportunities present for Council to meet all of the actions
in this area of the RAP:
4.1.1 Develop a Reconciliation Advisory Committee that will provide
advice and linkages to continuously improve relationships
between Council, the Indigenous community and wider
stakeholders.
4.1.2 In collaboration and consultation with the Wurundjeri and
Wathaurong people, identify opportunities to improve the
management of Indigenous cultural and heritage aspects across
the municipality that includes preservation of significant
Indigenous sites in developing areas within the municipality.
4.1.3 Provide greater internal communication and coordination to
support a variety of services deliver a consistent and culturally
appropriate approach to service delivery.
4.1.4 In consultation with Indigenous stakeholders facilitate culture
awareness training across Council with an emphasis on
approaches to improve managing and maintaining relationships
with the Indigenous community.
4.1.5 Support Indigenous organisations and stakeholders to self
evaluate their service capacity and identify with Council
opportunities to work together to build service provision capacity.
4.2 Respect and recognition
Council’s consistent practice of respect and recognition of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures demonstrates
Council’s commitment towards Reconciliation.
Council is active in recognising and respecting Indigenous culture by
annually supporting all major cultural events that includes supporting
the facilitation of Indigenous art workshops, flag raising ceremonies
during annual Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week celebration events;
11
and by providing opportunities for the Indigenous community to display
their art and culture to the wider community at events such as the
Djerriwarrh Festival and Summersault Festival.
Council respects and recognises Indigenous people and culture within
the municipality by continually flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander flags at all major sites across the municipality, acknowledging
the traditional owners of the land on which the City spans and
supporting Welcome to Country introductions by traditional elders at
Council events.
Recently Council has been involved in supporting Indigenous people to
be recognised in the Constitution by hosting a community breakfast
event with organisers of the national Journey to Recognition campaign
that included guest speakers Aiden Ridgeway and Fred Chaney
(former Senators); and performances by Indigenous performers the
Skin Choir and The Louds. Following on, the Let‟s Talk Recognition
forum with guest speaker Dr Peter Lewis and screening of the Our
Generation film was held in finalising a busy Reconciliation Week 2013.
Council will continue to encourage all Indigenous people, groups,
organisations and stakeholders to work together and recognise the
valuable contributions by all. The following opportunities support
Council to build on achievements and meet all actions in this area:
Opportunities
4.2.1 Further engage the Wathaurong Aboriginal Corporation and
Wurundjeri Council through regular meetings to provide input
into matters that impact traditional Indigenous culture and
heritage within the municipality.
4.2.2 Develop and maintain a broader Indigenous network through
direct engagement, formation of the Reconciliation Advisory
Committee and regular participation in Indigenous workings
groups, committees and stakeholder groups.
4.2.3 Develop protocols in collaboration with the Wathaurong
Aboriginal Corporation and the Wurundjeri Council i.e. Welcome
to Country and acknowledgements.
4.2.4 Develop Indigenous cultural awareness training with Indigenous
stakeholders to be delivered to Melton City Council staff.
12
4.3 Opportunities and inclusion
It is acknowledged that there are long lasting negative effects of
Post European contact practices and policies and that these
effects are still being experienced by many generations of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians with impacts on
all Australians.
Council provides a wide variety of opportunities for the Indigenous
community to participate and promote Indigenous culture and heritage
annually through direct and indirect support of Indigenous events and
inclusion in non-Indigenous events. Examples include the Taylor‟s Hill
Kindergarten Public Art Project, Indigenous Oral Story Telling and
Aboriginal Mural Project.
Council provides officer support with specialist advice to inform
planning processes and liaison with indigenous stakeholders. The
Indigenous community will continue to be encouraged and supported to
participate in all areas and aspects of the wider community. Council
achieves this through a variety of approaches that include:
Direct invitations to the Indigenous community to participate in
council activities, networks and working groups, i.e. Service
Providers Network and Suburb Naming Committee.
Encouraging input into council strategies and action plans.
Building and facilitating partnerships and relationships with
Indigenous and non- Indigenous stakeholders.
Providing and promoting a range of direct care support services to
the Indigenous community i.e. Reconnect Program and Home and
Community Care (HACC).
Opportunities
The following opportunities would enable Council to build on
achievements and to meet all actions:
4.3.1 Work with a Reconciliation Advisory Committee to engage
stakeholders to support and add value to already existing CTG
local strategies.
4.3.2 Explore options with community and Indigenous stakeholders to
access existing community services and or to identify and create
a permanent Indigenous meeting place / service hub.
4.3.3 Work with the local Indigenous community, traditional owners
and other indigenous stakeholders to develop strategies to
13
encourage Indigenous identification by local community
members.
4.3.4 Promote Council services in collaboration with Indigenous
stakeholders to increase utilisation and support the health and
wellbeing of the community aligned to the Closing the Gap
initiative.
4.3.5 Identify areas where Council‟s service departments can
specifically target and influence Indigenous health and wellbeing
outcomes by including an Indigenous focus in the development
of annual work, action plans and strategies.
4.4 Reporting and tracking progress and outcomes
Council is committed to its Reconciliation Policy and Action Plan
and understands that this is crucial to achieving genuine
Reconciliation.
Achievements
The Reconciliation Action Plan Review will report and track progress
and outcomes being delivered across Council. Information regarding
the current achievements and opportunities will be presented to Council
and made available to the community.
Opportunities
The development of a Reconciliation Advisory Committee (RAC) in
substitute of a proposed Community Review Panel, which will provide
the opportunity to align with Reconciliation‟s “working together”
principle. The Committee will provide expertise and advice to Council
on Indigenous matters.
The RAC will be responsible for the following:
4.4.1 Provide guidance and support to Council on issues and barriers
that negatively affect the Reconciliation process.
4.4.2 Provide advice to Council on the development and
implementation of strategies that will deliver positive outcomes
and which are aligned to the Council Plan, Closing the Gap
strategy and Melton City Council‟s Reconciliation Action Plan.
4.4.3 Receive and comment on the progress in implementing specific
strategies that encourages inclusive involvement of Indigenous
people in Council services, programs and activities.
4.4.4 Raise advocacy issues for Council to consider on behalf of the
Indigenous community.
14
5. Risk Analysis
In acknowledging the sensitivity and complexities surrounding Reconciliation
and the historical treatment of Indigenous people by government agencies,
Council will continue its commitment to Reconciliation through building on
current RAP achievements and maximising opportunities to timely implement
all actions in the plan.
Should Council not fulfil the Reconciliation Plan the following risks are
present:
The local and wider Indigenous community may lose confidence in
Council‟s commitment towards Reconciliation.
Harm to existing and future relationships with the Indigenous community
and stakeholders
Reluctance by the Indigenous community to support Council in service
delivery, local initiatives and future strategies.
15
Appendix 1: Reconciliation Action Table Progress July 2013
16
1. RELATIONSHIPS
Action Performance Measure Status / Outcomes to date
1. Develop and build on relationships with:
Traditional Owner Groups and Elders; Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation (based in Melton Local Government Area); Local Indigenous Network and other networks and Committees in the Victorian State Government Indigenous Governance Framework; Western Suburbs Indigenous Gathering Place; Service providers (Government and non-Government); Other groups and organizations as identified.
Meetings initiated by Council with Groups, Elders, Networks, Service providers and residents. Strategic/ community plans discussed and agreements made on approaches and priorities.
COMPLETED:
Werribee River Trail Strategy Collaboration with Indigenous stakeholders to identify significant sites to ensure the protection of Indigenous culture during the construction of the Melton-Werribee Trail.
Bullum Bullum Grasslands Protection and Revegetation Project
Participation by Council on the Bullum Bullum Management Group that works collaboratively with local & state Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders to protect the culturally significant area, support revegetation and aspirations for the areas future use.
Regional Kitchen & Community Chef Project
Promotion of the project to the Indigenous community that provides healthy and dietary specific affordable meals to eligible HACC participants through a centre based service delivery model.
Western Gathering Place
Support of the Western Gathering Place through networking and working in collaboration to improve outcomes for Indigenous children.
Western Integrated Family Violence Committee Member of the Western Integrated Family Violence Committee that is committed to reducing family violence within Indigenous communities.
Reconciliation Action Plan
Endorsement of the Melton City Reconciliation Action Plan (2010-2014) by Reconciliation
Victoria.
Western Region Local Government Reconciliation Network
Member of the WRLGRN that undertakes activities builds relationships and supports
Reconciliation.
New Reconciliation Consultative Group established with two community forums held initiated by Council (includes one forum for the review of Plan and emerging issues).
IN PROGRESS:
Reconciliation Advisory Committee
Council is currently in the final stages of establishing the Reconciliation Advisory Committee
in place of the Reconciliation Consultative Group to better provide increased benefits to the
community.
17
Programs, services, groups and activities supported by Council through promotion, networking and other resourcing by agreement.
COMPLETED: Early Years Partnership Group
Participation on the network that includes Indigenous representation to address challenges facing Indigenous children, particularly around “Closing the Gap” action areas.
Kindergarten Working Group – Best Start Program
In collaboration with Indigenous organisations, the purpose of this working group is to identify through working with Indigenous families within the municipality, the challenges and barriers that impact kindergarten attendance rates.
Indigenous Cultural Events
Support of Indigenous cultural events annually (e.g. Reconciliation, NAIDOC).
Partnership arrangements developed where Council provides support in access to community facilities and internal & external networks for purposes of event promotion.
Multicultural Events
Support Indigenous presence at multicultural events (e.g. Harmony Day).
Taylor’s Hill Kindergarten Public Art Project Supported awareness of Indigenous art and culture through permanent Indigenous aspects/elements embedded in the artwork
Family Services
Support of the Western Suburbs Indigenous Gathering Place Integrated Family Service (Child First Program) through participation in the Brimbank-Melton Alliance network.
Kirrip group supported to be a local example of self-determination.
COMPLETED: Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation
Invitations to Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation to participate in the Service Providers Network to provide input into the planning and delivery of services to the Indigenous community.
Kirrip supported and resourced to attend all major events held by Council i.e. Djerriwarrh and Summersault Festival.
Invitations sent to Kirrip to provide input into the planning of the Djerriwarrh Festival through participation on the steering committee.
Strong relationships have been built with Kirrip that has supported a variety of activities.
Ongoing support of Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation to build capacity and self efficacy by identifying resourcing opportunities to respond to community identified needs.
Kirrip assisted to maintain and lead local events e.g. Naidoc and the Spring Dance.
Kirrip assisted to promote Aboriginal culture e.g. dance, art and ceremonial activities
18
Aboriginal Art & Cultural Activities
Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation supported to lead the Indigenous Arts Program.
Indigenous Arts Program promoted through Council networks.
Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation supported to facilitate and promote significant Indigenous days & events.
Indigenous significant days & events promoted through Council networks.
Kirrip Food Distribution Bank Program
Collaboration with Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation, Combined Churches Caring and
VicHealth for the implementation of the Foodbank Program.
Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation provided with facilities when requested to facilitate the program that distributes food packages to Indigenous families.
2. Facilitate relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous residents, groups and organisations for Council and the community.
Number of opportunities provided and outcomes of this including networking and events.
COMPLETED: Relationship Facilitation
Advocate for Indigenous children and their families to municipality service providers to improve outcomes for Indigenous communities around the „Closing the Gap‟ action areas.
Continual development of internal partnerships to support Indigenous children and their families to access services within and external to Council.
Invitations to the Western Gathering Place and Kirrip to participate in the Carers Expo to promote their available services.
Invitations to the Western Gathering Place and Kirrip to collaborate with Council to engage with seniors groups to promote service provisions and support throughout the municipality.
Engagement of Indigenous organisations and stakeholders to participate in the planning and delivery of services.
Numerous opportunities created indirectly for the facilitation of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members annually through events.
Indigenous Oral Story Telling
This provided an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous children and families to partake in the story telling activity that passively encourages building of relationships.
Launchpad Program
The afterschool Launchpad Program provides the following opportunities:
Ongoing facilitation of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people within the local community
Facilitating links between Indigenous young people and local service providers
Youth Support Camp
Passive facilitation of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people and service providers
19
2. RESPECT AND RECOGNITION
Action Performance Measure Status / Outcomes to date
3. The Aboriginal flag to be flown permanently and recognised during ceremonial and significant occasions.
Aboriginal flag flown on a permanent basis at established civic precincts and recognised on significant occasions.
COMPLETED:
The Aboriginal flag is permanently flown at civic precincts throughout the municipality.
4. Work with State Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders to ensure Council fulfils its statutory obligations in relation to cultural heritage management under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006
Preparation of cultural heritage management plans for Council managed land and sites.
COMPLETED: Culture & Heritage
All Council managed land and sites have undertaken cultural heritage management plans as per statutory requirements of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
Council ensures that all planning and development applications are supported by a documented Cultural Heritage Study and/or Cultural Heritage Management Plan where required.
Engagement with Wurundjeri Council on cultural heritage management.
Precinct Structure Plans
Ongoing consultations with government and Indigenous stakeholders annually i.e. Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Department of Planning and Community Development.
5. Undertake a comprehensive study to identify, recognize and protect places of Indigenous cultural heritage significance.
Explore funding sources for comprehensive study.
COMPLETED: Culture & Heritage Council is committed to undertaking appropriate actions to identify, recognise and protect places of Indigenous cultural heritage significance and has identified funding sources and engaged traditional owners to partake in a joint submission.
Explore Council capacity to do an initial study of Council managed land and sites with support from Aboriginal Affairs Victoria resource library.
COMPLETED: Council has explored with partners capacity for an initial study.
20
6. Deliver cultural education/ awareness training across all Council units.
Training included in Induction program for new staff
IN PROGRESS:
Council is exploring options to develop an appropriate cultural awareness and education
package with a range of stakeholders that includes the traditional owner groups Wurundjeri
and Wathaurong.
All front-line staff trained in first year
IN PROGRESS:
Planned to occur with development of the cultural awareness and education package.
100% of all staff trained within 3 years
IN PROGRESS:
Planned to occur with development of the cultural awareness and education package.
7. Work with Indigenous stakeholders to develop, maintain and promote resources for Council units and the wider community, including library collections.
Get With it Media and Culture Brochure (updated)
COMPLETED: Get With It media and cultural brochure updated.
Cultural Awareness / Training Resource List (developed by Western Region Local Government Reconciliation Network)
COMPLETED: Development of the cultural awareness training and education package will be shared with the WRLGRN.
Indigenous Groups, Organizations and Government Services Resource List
COMPLETED: Service mapping project undertaken that includes Indigenous Groups, Organisations and Government Services Resource Lists.
Library collections COMPLETED:
Library Services audited its Indigenous collections to ensure the material is appropriate and all inappropriate resources were removed and new resources added to fill collection gaps. All Indigenous resources added to the collection have been pre-screened for cultural appropriateness, accuracy and sensitivities by Indigenous stakeholders i.e. Koori Heritage Trust, State Library.
The Library also distributes a variety of Indigenous focussed brochures from various sources
Council website COMPLETED: Exploration with the Community Development service unit to upload relevant and appropriate Indigenous content to Council‟s website
21
8. Work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait stakeholders to develop advice on protocols for Council and the community. Including Welcome to Country and Indigenous Acknowledgment.
Protocols document developed and accessible for Council staff and the wider community.
COMPLETED: Council has reviewed its protocols and in consultation with traditional owner groups and stakeholders to inform future protocol development.
9. Work with the Western Region Local Government Reconciliation Network to share information and undertake collaborative regional projects including resource development, training, protocols and recognition activities.
Annual report of achievements and emerging issues developed and reported to the Community Review Panel and community forums.
IN PROGRESS: New RAC to deliver in 2013.
10. Work with the community and initiate and support local and regional Indigenous and Reconciliation significant days, community celebrations and programs including:
National Apology Day
National Sorry Day 26th May
Reconciliation Week 27th
May – 3rd
June
NAIDOC Week July
Information disseminated about significant days, celebrations and programs.
COMPLETED:
NAIDOC Week. Publicity and promotional materials and displays of in both libraries to reinforce key messages for National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week
Information disseminated about significant days, celebrations and programs through
Council networks.
22
Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week planned and organised with the community.
COMPLETED: Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week All Indigenous events are annually planned and led in collaboration with Council, partners and the community. Journey to Recognition Council supported the National Journey to Recognition campaign that aims to raise awareness and gather support for the recognition of Indigenous people in the Constitution by hosting a Welcome Dinner and Community Breakfast that included guest speakers talking about reconciliation and recognition and show cased Indigenous entertainers. Let’s Talk Recognition Forum Reconciliation Week 2013, Council in partnership with Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation hosted the Lets Talk Recognition forum with guest speaker Dr Peter Lewis providing an engaging discussion on Constitutional recognition and a screening of the film Our Generation that provided an insight into the struggles of the Yolungu people to maintain ownership of their traditional lands and the impacts of government decision making on the community.
Services and resources provided to community groups and organisations including advice, facilitating partnerships, assistance with grant applications and community engagement.
COMPLETED:
Council supports all Indigenous significant days and cultural events through resourcing and participation.
Council supports and provides assistance to community groups and organisations through advice, facilitation of events and assistance with grant application processes.
Council provides a range of resources to community groups and organisations that include funding and officer support.
11. Facilitate the meaningful involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait artists and stakeholders in local festivals and events.
Information provided to artists on opportunities for participation in networks, activities events and festivals.
COMPLETED: Festivals and Events
Council continues to identify and encourage Indigenous artist participation at festivals and events annually throughout the municipality e.g. Jessica Mauboy at the Summersault Festival; The Louds and Skin Choir at the Journey to Recognition event.
Indigenous facilitated art workshops facilitated annually.
Encouragement of local and wider Indigenous community members to facilitate stalls and displays at annual events.
Engagement with the Wurundjeri Council to participate in annual festivals and events in various capacities.
Consultations carried out with artists to identify needs and emerging issues.
COMPLETED: Council consults with artists and the community regularly to identify and provide support to respond to emerging issues.
23
12. Promote inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art & culture in public / private places inc. Council assets.
Number and nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks in Council and other facilities.
COMPLETED: Melton Library and Learning Hub Naming of two rooms by Wurundjeri Traditional Elders at the new Melton Library facility.
Suburb Naming Wurundjeri and Wathaurong Elders invited to participate in suburb naming.
3. OPPORTUNITIES AND INCLUSION
Action Performance Measure Status / Outcomes to date
13. Evaluate Council‟s roles and responsibilities regarding the support and achievement of the Council of Australian Government‟s (COAG) areas for action in the „Closing the Gap Program‟ and for the Victorian Government‟s „Victorian Indigenous Affairs Framework‟. Areas include health, education, economic participation and development, safe families and justice.
Evaluate current access to services and opportunities including access issues around public and community transport.
Roles and responsibilities identified based on Council‟s current and planned services, projects and programs.
COMPLETED: Council continues to be active and play a supporting and lead role in a range of areas that supports achievements of COAG action areas and the Closing the Gap strategy.
Council services gather and distribute to governing bodies a range of data that is used to inform „Closing the Gap‟ actions.
Development of a local Crime Prevention Action Plan with the Department of Justice that has identified a linkage between Indigenous women that have experienced family violence and an increased likelihood of offending.
A local „Closing the Gap‟ action plan to be developed in partnership with stakeholders and linked to the Reconciliation Plan.
COMPLETED: Council is currently exploring options with partners and Indigenous stakeholders in supporting already existing local Closing the Gap strategies.
Progress and evaluation reports to be presented to the Community Review Panel and community forums.
IN PROGRESS: New RAC to deliver in 2013.
14. Ensure that Council‟s Plans and Strategies are inclusive of the needs and priorities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, residents and organisations.
Information provided about plans and strategies to stakeholders and presented at community forums where possible.
COMPLETED: Council regularly provides information of plans and strategies to stakeholders at community forums and permanently through online technology.
Consultations carried out with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders.
COMPLETED: Council continuously consults with Indigenous stakeholders through its partnerships and participation on Indigenous networks that includes Indigenous Family Violence Regional Action Group (IFVRAG) and Local Indigenous Network (LIN).
24
15. Consider a pro-active approach to employment and / or training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents within Council.
Investigation carried out to identify a Council approach for employment and training opportunities.
COMPLETED:
Employment
Employment programs and workshops that develop skills to support the long term Indigenous unemployed to successfully gain employment are being developed.
Council is currently exploring and identifying opportunities to incorporate Indigenous focussed workshops, training and support services into Council strategies.
Funding opportunities explored.
COMPLETED:
Council continues to explore funding opportunities
16. Support local lifelong learning and education initiatives that are aimed at improving school participation and completion rates.
Services and resources provided to any Homework Programs or other educational initiatives and projects including advice, facilitating partnerships, assistance with grant applications and community engagement.
COMPLETED: Kirrip Homework Club Council provided support to the Kirrip Homework Club to attract funding and provide facilities.
Program Planning Using a child centred approach; children inform program planning and are encouraged by staff to contribute ideas. Staff encourage the inclusion of Indigenous themes within the learning environment e.g. taking opportunity to talk about and include Indigenous culture, celebrating cultural events and incorporating resources specifically depicting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture into the educational program. This supports interaction and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children and learning about Indigenous culture and heritage.
17. Work in collaboration to initiate and support activities, projects and programs aimed at:
Leadership and cultural strengthening for young people
Improvement of maternal child health and kindergarten participation rates
Access and inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older residents and residents with a disability.
Activities, projects and programs implemented with partners.
COMPLETED: Indigenous Arts Program Was conducted in partnership with Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation to celebrate and educate Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people about traditional Art and Culture
Aboriginal Mural Project In partnership with Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation a permanent Aboriginal mural was painted on the Youth Services building to promote Aboriginal art and culture
Reconnect Program Strong engagement with Indigenous young people in the Reconnect Program that provides support to young people to remain within their family units through counselling & support services
Youth Magazine Participation of Indigenous young people in the youth led magazine that develops skills in producing a full scale magazine, teamwork and leadership development.
Participation levels monitored and reported in annual review.
COMPLETED: Participation levels are monitored and reported where appropriate.
25
Higher engagement in key services achieved and documented
COMPLETED: Council complies with statutory requirements for documenting engagement of the Indigenous population in key services.
26
4. REPORTING AND TRACKING PROGRESS AND OUTCOMES
Action Performance Measure Status / Outcomes to date
20. Establish a Community Review Panel which is comprised of Council and Community representatives to do an annual review of the Plan.
Community Review Panel established by December 2010.
IN PROGRESS:
Upon discussion with Council officers and community representatives, it has been determined a more meaningful approach is to develop a Reconciliation Advisory Committee, as opposed to a Community Review Panel to leverage greater community benefit. Council will consider Terms of Reference and Committee appointment in the first quarter of the 2013/14 financial year.
Annual review completed. IN PROGRESS:
Annual review for the 2010/11 and 2011/12 were not reported publicly.
2012/13 Review to be submitted to Council July 2013 meeting.
13/14 Annual review due by July 2014.
21. Publicly report on the progress, outcomes, challenges, learning and next steps.
Community Review Group presentation of report to a community forum.
IN PROGRESS:
New RAC to deliver in 2013.
Report disseminated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and other stakeholders.
IN PROGRESS:
2012/13 Review to be provided upon adoption by Council.
Report made accessible on Council‟s website and available in hard copy.
IN PROGRESS:
2012/13 Review to be provided upon adoption by Council.
