Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan JULY 2019 – JUNE 2021 Image: Mervyn Bishop
REMEMBERING COUNCILLOR GILCHRIST (1999 - 2004)
We would like to acknowledge Aunty Yvonne Gilchrist the naming of the Yvonne Gilchrist resource room at (now deceased), a highly regarded and well-known Mt Austin High. Wiradjuri Elder, who served as a Councillor for Wagga The Sorry Bus tour, forming the Aboriginal Wagga City Council, from 1999 to 2004. Consultative Committee, connecting council to the Aunty Yvonne Gilchrist, affectionately known to many Reconciliation process and moving to secure a local as ‘Aunty Vonnie’ had a passion for lifelong learning, Aboriginal Youth and Community Development education and seized every opportunity that became Position in Council were all huge achievements within available. She recalled that working at Mount Austin a larger, national framework. High School as an Aboriginal Education Assistant were Aunty Vonnie is seen by many as a pioneer in the amongst her happiest times, as she loved being with journey of reconciliation for Wagga Wagga. the children and helping when need occurred. Her contribution to the school has been recognised with
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this document contains images, and names of people who have passed away.
2 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgement of Country 4 Introduction 18
Messages from local Wiradjuri Elders 6 Our Vision for Reconciliation 20
Message from the Mayor 8 Our RAP Working Group 22
Message from Reconciliation Australia 10 Our Reconciliation Journey 24
Placement of the Reconciliation Action Plan Our Reconciliation Action Plan 28 within the sustainable planning framework 12 Relationships 30 Our Vision and Guiding Principles 13 Respect 33
About Wagga Wagga 14 Opportunities 40 Governance, tracking progress and reporting 47 Our Business 16 Our Community Demographics 17 Significant dates and events for our community 50
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this document may contain images and names of people who have passed away.
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
FUSION16 Holy Trinity Primary Dulbinya dance group Image: Heidrun Lohr Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this land, the Wiradjuri people, and pays respect to Elders, both past and present. Wagga Wagga City Council has a long history and association with local First Nations Peoples communities within the Local Government Area (LGA). Wagga Wagga City Council values the diversity of the local community and supports reconciliation by working consistently in partnership with the local Wiradjuri and First Nations community, ensuring the process is based on respect, trust and a spirit of openness.
Sorry Day 2014 Flag raising ceremony with Aunty Isabel Reid, Aunty Pat Simpson and Kooringal High School student Image: Wagga Wagga City Council
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 5 MESSAGES FROM LOCAL WIRADJURI ELDERS
Aunty Isabel Reid Uncle James Ingram “Reconciliation is about putting aside differences of opinion, whether “Reconciliation to me, means accepting the fact we cannot do it alone they are right or wrong, and coming together. Everyone is not the same and we need all the help we can get to save our children and their and they all have choices. Before any decisions are made regarding descendants. My vision for Wagga Wagga is for all people to respect Aboriginal culture, Elders need to be informed, and although this has each other and accepting we cannot help everyone, especially those happened in some cases it needs to happen more frequently. Also, we who won`t help themselves. I see Wagga Wagga City Council providing need to listen to young people regarding decision making. Aboriginal meaningful and structured employment and training outcomes for our people, young and old, should be on all committees. On days like people. Caring for Country outcomes prove we can address people’s Australia Day, we should be acknowledging what has happened in our dependence on drugs and alcohol and reduce the incidence of crime past so we can move forward together. We also need representation whilst doing something worthwhile for Mother Earth as she has always of Aboriginal people as leaders in our Council and on the Council itself been there for you and me.” who can provide guidance around culture, community and heritage.
6 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 MESSAGES FROM LOCAL WIRADJURI ELDERS
Aunty Kath Withers “As a Wiradjuri Elder, I believe there should be a clear acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Peoples of Australia, the original owners and custodians of this land. There also needs to be recognition of Wiradjuri people’s resilience and culture to assist in the growth and development of Wagga. I see reconciliation as a process in which we acknowledge the past, understand the present, and embrace a future based on the co-existence of rights. I would love to see Council assist reconciliation with the establishment of a Cultural Centre, showcasing Wiradjuri culture and artists. I would also like to see the creation of a Reconciliation Committee involving Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people working together to improve local relationships within the Wagga community, including all key business, community and Elders. I would also like to see Council take a leadership role in bringing people together to learn and move forward as one community. These actions would need to be resourced adequately to ensure their ongoing viability and to ensure commitment is more than tokenistic.”
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 7 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Reconciliation Week 2017 “Together as One” by Tyronne Hoerler, with Aunty Isabel Reid and Mayor Greg Conkey. Image: Wagga Wagga City Council As Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga I would like to agreements, and to work alongside our colleagues in acknowledge and thank the Wiradjuri and community State and Federal government to “Close the Gap”. Elders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and other Wagga Wagga City Council’s RAP clearly community members and Council staff for their valued demonstrates Council’s commitment to working with contributions to our first Wagga Wagga City Council our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). I would also like to members towards a better, brighter, and stronger thank Reconciliation Australia for their guidance and future. It outlines how Council will play its part in support in ensuring this plan reflects the intent of recognising and valuing Wiradjuri culture and heritage, RAPs across our country, in government agencies, how we will work to increase employment and businesses and other services. business opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Reconciliation is such an important process and Islander people, and how we will ensure we build essential when we look back and consider the relationships based on respect and transparency with atrocities of our country’s past. The loss of cultures, our community. families and languages, and the impact of government It is my hope that through this RAP we will strengthen resettlements and forcible removal policies on our City where all community members value and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities respect our First Nations Peoples and our local and families has been profound. The results of these Wiradjuri culture and heritage. The development of policies and actions continue to affect Aboriginal and this RAP is a small step in addressing the inequities of Torres Strait Islander people and their families today. the past. We know Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are likely to die twenty years before non-Aboriginal people, are almost twice as likely to commit suicide, are over represented in our criminal justice system and the out of home care system. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people also experience poorer health outcomes and are less likely to be in full time employment. As Mayor of this City, I believe that Council has a responsibility to address some of these inequities in line with the Council of Australian Government
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 9 MESSAGE FROM RECONCILIATION AUSTRALIA
Image: Wagga Wagga City Council Reconciliation Australia is delighted to welcome Wagga City Council will develop its approach to Wagga Wagga City Council to the Reconciliation driving reconciliation through its business activities, Action Plan (RAP) program by formally endorsing its services and programs, and develop mutually inaugural Innovate RAP. beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. As a member of the RAP community, Wagga Wagga City Council joins over 1,000 dedicated corporate, We wish Wagga Wagga City Council well as it government, and not-for-profit organisations that have explores and establishes its own unique approach formally committed to reconciliation through the RAP to reconciliation. We encourage Wagga Wagga City program since its inception in 2006. RAP organisations Council to embrace this journey with open hearts and across Australia are turning good intentions into minds, to grow from the challenges, and to build on its positive actions, helping to build higher trust, lower successes. As the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation prejudice, and increase pride in Aboriginal and Torres reminded the nation in its final report: Strait Islander cultures. “Reconciliation is hard work—it’s a long, winding Reconciliation is no one single issue or agenda. and corrugated road, not a broad, paved highway. Based on international research and benchmarking, Determination and effort at all levels of government Reconciliation Australia defines and measures and in all sections of the community will be essential reconciliation through five critical dimensions: race to make reconciliation a reality.” relations; equality and equity, institutional integrity; On behalf of Reconciliation Australia, I commend unity; and historical acceptance. All sections of the Wagga Wagga City Council on its first RAP, and look community—governments, civil society, the private forward to following its ongoing reconciliation journey. sector, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—have a role to play to progress these dimensions. The RAP program provides a framework for organisations to advance reconciliation within their spheres of influence. This Innovate RAP provides Wagga Wagga City Council with the key steps to Karen Mundine establish its own unique approach to reconciliation. Chief Executive Officer Through implementing an Innovate RAP, Wagga Reconciliation Australia
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 11 PLACEMENT OF THE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN WITHIN THE SUSTAINABLE PLANNING FRAMEWORK
The Reconciliation Action Plan provides a clear direction to ensure Council is developing a liveable city, State and Regional Plans which is thriving, connected, innovative and inclusive. The plan has been written to provide a list of actions council will deliver over the next two years within the Community Strategic Plan Wagga Wagga Local Government Area to strengthen Long term plan that clearly denes what we want as a community. reconciliation with the city’s First Nations Peoples. LEVEL The development of the RAP has occurred using the Resourcing Strategies principles identified in the Integrated Planning and Council Strategies Internal instruments Reporting Manual for Local Government in NSW and Providing directions LEVEL (how) we deliver: developed with guidance from Reconciliation Australia, Long Term Financial Social Economic Environmental Civic Leadership Plan the lead body for reconciliation in our Nation. The RAP Asset Management Plan has also sought to integrate with other Wagga Wagga Workforce Plan City Council strategies to ensure the principles of Business Planning Process Section 94 Divisional process informing resourcing and Developer inclusion and connection are embedded in all planning delivery Contributions frameworks. Community Engagement This strategy is considered a level two document within Delivery Program 4 Years the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Framework. Identies the elected Council’s priorities for their term of oce. Figure 1.1 NSW Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework LEVEL Policies, operating standards, guidelines and Operational Plan 1 Year procedures Local Environment Identies the projects, programs and Plan (LEP) services to be delivered. Development LEVEL Control Plan (DCP)
Individual Performance and Development Plan
Monitoring and reporting
Figure 1.1
12 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 OUR VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
During the development of the Community Strategic Plan a vision for the city’s future was developed and tested within the community. This vision states: “The community of Wagga is a thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive community on the Murrumbidgee. Rich in opportunity, choice, learning and environment, Wagga is a place where paths cross and people meet.”
Our guiding principles To ensure we achieve our community’s vision in the future, we will embed these four principles across all aspects of work that we do.
THRIVING INNOVATION CONNECTED INCLUSIVE
The Reconciliation Action The Reconciliation Action The Reconciliation Action The Reconciliation Plan will consider how we Plan will consider how Plan will consider how Action Plan will consider promote the liveability of we can all feel part of the we create meaningful how we are inclusive Wagga Wagga and work community, build better relationships and efficient in all aspects of our together to increase the relationships through and effective systems work spaces, from work success and recognition attitudes and behaviours and processes to create culture and practices to of First Nations community and acknowledgment best practice in working employment, design and members and Wiradjuri of Wiradjuri culture and with and considering our planning. culture. heritage in places and First Nations Peoples. spaces.
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 13 ABOUT WAGGA WAGGA
14 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 Wagga Wagga local government area is located on Tweed Heads traditional Wiradjuri Country in the Riverina region of Karenpgapa Muruwari Bundjalung southern New South Wales. The name of the City was Waaigali Gunu Barranbinya Ngarabal Yamba derived from the language of the Wiradjuri people, Bandjigali Yaegl the largest Aboriginal Nation in New South Wales. The Kamilaroi Malyangaba Barundji word Wagga Wagga comes from the Wiradjuri word Gumbainggir Wandjiwalgu Waga meaning a place to dance. Waga Waga, meaning Wailwan Nganyaywana Cos Harbour a place of dance, place of celebration. The repetition Wiljali Wongaibon of a word expresses plural or emphasis, emphasis Broken Hill Dainggatti Tamworth Kempsey meaning special importance. Thus, Wagga Wagga Port Macquarie Danggali could mean a place of many celebrations or a place of Biripi many dances. Geawegal Barkindji Barindji The name Wiradjuri means, ‘people of the three rivers’ Meru Wonnaru Worimi Dubbo and traditionally these rivers (Lachlan, Murrumbidgee Wiradjuri Yitha Yitha Darkinjung Newcastle and Macquarie) were the primary source of food for the Latje Latje Awabakal Dadi Dadi Wiradjuri people. Mildura Orange Central Coast Bathurst Kuring-gai Kureinji Madi Madi Dharug Sydney Wagga Wagga continues to be the traditional home of Nari Nari many Wiradjuri people. After years of Wagga being a Eora Gundungurra government resettlement zone for Aboriginal people, it Wemba Wemba Wollongong Wagga Wagga Baraba Baraba Ngunawal is now also home to First Nations Peoples from many Tharawal surrounding Nations. Yorta Yorta Canberra Wagga Wagga is also an increasingly culturally diverse Yuin Ngarigo local government area, and is a recognised Refugee Welcome zone. It is a youthful and vibrant community, with a higher than average proportion of persons in the 12-24 age group.
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 15 OUR BUSINESS
Wagga Wagga is increasingly recognised by other and Visitor Information Centre) Regional Development other landfill sites, the Livestock Marketing Centre, levels of Government and the broader community Offices in our Seniors Community Centre, Parks Depot, Riverina Regional library, Glenfield Road Animal Shelter, as a regional capital, playing a significant role in Cemeteries, Fernleigh Road depot, the Oasis Aquatic a Weed Spraying Depot and Wagga Airport. supporting the surrounding towns and villages within Centre, Gregadoo Waste Management Facility and the wider Riverina. The 2018 Wagga Wagga Economic Snapshot identified Wagga Wagga as the largest retail, commercial, administrative and population centre in the Riverina region. It additionally identified that the city provides shopping services to a catchment of Brisbane over 190,000 people. Approximately $1.3M people visit annually. Darwin The city exhibits strong economic and population growth, evidenced by consistently falling unemployment rates, which are below the state and Perth national averages. Wagga Wagga is highly accessible through its road, rail and air connections to Australia’s major cities and sea ports. Significant opportunity exists for business to either establish or expand and capitalise Sydney on the city’s favourable economic environment and Adelaide location as a contemporary regional city. Canberra Wagga Wagga’s population of Wiradjuri and First Nations Peoples is 5.6% or 3,509 of the population Melbourne (ABS 2016). Wagga Wagga City Council employs approximately 435 permanent employees with 14 of those employees identifying as First Nations Peoples, equating to approximately 3.2% of total staff. Council staff are located across a number of sites including sites within the Civic Centre Precinct, (Administration, Library, Civic Theatre, Gallery, Museum Hobart
16 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 OUR COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHICS
T e o lation o Wa a Aboriginal young A o i inal eo le in NSW The Aboriginal Wa a Cit in a people are detained e e 11 3 ti e population o e li el t an consistently at 15 times the rate reported 62,3 5 non A o i inal higher levels of non-Aboriginal eo le to e of psychological young i i one distress in adults of all children in Out (approx. 20%) compared of Home Care (OOHC) people to the non-Aboriginal over population (11%) in Australia are in NSW 21 7 of Aboriginal 35% Aboriginal or Torres adults in NSW Strait Islander reported having The highest % 43 7 of the general diabetes compared of Aboriginal population have to 9.7% in all NSW OR 3509 OF THE POPULATION people ARE ABORIGINAL OR TORRES completed year 12 or are in the 5 6 STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES equivalent, compared to suburbs of 30 of Wagga Wagga’s Aboriginal offenders made up 27 9 of offences police ASHMONT, Aboriginal population proceeded against in TOLLAND, Wagga Wagga LGA MOUNT AUSTIN + ac o c i e cate o ie 35 2 general population KOORINGAL
Aboriginal and Torres Strait 5 4 Islander Suicide rates for Aboriginal Aboriginal children are twice as likely to be People aged People population youth are nearly double that of developmentally vulnerable in their first year at 0 – 24 years old old years 24 – 0 0 20 40 60 80 100 non-Aboriginal 15-24 yr olds c ool a non A o i inal c il en a e
Wagga Wagga City Council 14 of those employees identify as Aboriginal 16.7% of the general population have a employs approximately 435 and Torres Strait Islander peoples, equating to Bachelor degree or higher compared to permanent employees approximately 3.2% of total sta (2018) 6.3% of Wagga Wagga’s Aboriginal population
Census of Population and Housing 2016. Compiled and presented by .id , the population experts. Aboriginal Health Profile, Murrumbidgee* LHD 2017, Public Health, Murrumbidgee LHD. NSW Council of Social Services, Investing* in Communities Conference INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 17 *NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research * INTRODUCTION
Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Cultural Tour led by Uncle James Ingram Image: Jack of Hearts Studio Reconciliation is one of the most important journeys we need to undertake for Wagga Wagga. It is a cornerstone to aid healing and to close the gap of inequity for the city’s First Nations Peoples. If we do this well we can not only effect change together for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community but for our community as a whole. Janice Summerhayes, Director Community
Purpose of this Document Nations Peoples and engaging staff and stakeholders The purpose of this document is to develop a in reconciliation. Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), after extensive Throughout this time, Council has worked closely with consultation between First Nations Peoples in the Reconciliation Australia to ensure this RAP is consistent Wagga Wagga Local Government Area and Wagga with best practice and has a clear framework to Wagga City Council staff, to be delivered by the contribute to reconciliation by: Wagga Wagga City Council towards strengthening • building and encouraging relationships between the reconciliation. local Wiradjuri community and other First Nations Peoples, communities, organisations, and the Our Process broader Australian community; Wagga Wagga City Council began the process of • fostering and embedding respect for the world’s developing a Reconciliation Action Plan in 2016. At this longest surviving cultures and communities; and point it was determined Council’s RAP should be an “Innovate” RAP. Innovate RAP’s focus on outlining clear • developing opportunities within council to improve actions that work towards achieving Council’s vision for socio-economic outcomes for First Nations Peoples reconciliation and ensure goals help Council to gain a and communities1. deeper understanding of its sphere of influence, and 1Exerts above have been adapted from the Reconciliation Australia establish the best approach to advance reconciliation. website https://www.reconciliation.org.au/reconciliation-action- This level was deemed most suitable, as although plans/#ra-innovate-rap many relationships and projects had been already established, there was still a long way to go to build a genuine platform of trust and partnership. It was also determined through an Innovate RAP, Council could focus on strengthening relationships with First
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 19 OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATION
Apology Day 2018 Henschke Primary school with Aunty Colleen Hughes and Aunty Mary Atkinson Image: Jack of Hearts Studio A connected community that thrives on positive relationships and cultural diversity, and provides equitable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members
RAP Working Group 2017
Ngiyanggarang: Beginning a conversation in the morning to awaken others exhibition at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2018 Smoking ceremony by Pete Ingram Image: Wagga Wagga City Council
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 21 OUR RAP WORKING GROUP
The following community members and staff have led and guided Council in the development of the Wagga Wagga City Council Reconciliation Action Plan.
NB: please note the RWG has included other members in the initial consultation and whilst they are not mentioned in the existing RWG, Council acknowledges their contribution and support.
Aunty Cheryl Penrith, Mark Saddler, Aunty Fay Moseley, Wiradjuri Elder Wiradjuri Community Wiradjuri Elder Member
Adriaan Stander, Arthur Thorpe, Ashleigh Pengelly, Ben Creighton, Brett Koschel, Strategic Planning Plant Operator Aboriginal Youth and Strategic Asset Planner Marketing and Coordinator Community Development Communications Officer (2018) Coordinator
22 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 OUR RAP WORKING GROUP
Caroline Angel, Carly Hood, Carolyn Rodney David Butterfield, Fiona Piltz, Janice Summerhayes, Director, Commercial Services Environmental Manager Finance Management Procurement Manager People and Director, Community RAP Champion Coordinator Services Culture Services
Lisa Saffery, Madeleine Scully, Mark Gardiner, Mark Hewson, Scott Gray, Therese Reeckman, Social Planning Manager Community Manager Environment and Supervisor Contract Manager Executive People and Culture Officer Coordinator Services City Compliance Services Support
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 23 OUR RECONCILIATION JOURNEY
Kangaroo skin presentation to the Wagga Wagga City Library 2017 Claire Campbell (Manager Library) Jocelyn Williams (community member), Janice Summerhayes (Director Community) Sam Kirby (Aboriginal Youth and Community Development Officer). Image: Wagga Wagga City Council Wagga Wagga City Council has a long history and various stakeholders were engaged to ensure their commissioned by the Wagga Wagga City Council. association with the local First Nations Peoples thoughts were captured. This included discussions with The temporary artwork, unveiled in May 2017 on the communities within the LGA. In 2003, Council launched Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Medical Service, entrance steps of the Wagga Wagga City Council the City of Wagga Wagga’s Indigenous Strategy. This Charles Sturt University and other local Elders and building was in place for six months. strategy underpinned how Council would work with community members through two formal community the First Nations Peoples and ensure meaningful consultations, meetings and community conversations. Giilanggalang (many stories) 2016 - ongoing consultation for the development of relevant planning, In November 2017, the draft RAP was presented at During NAIDOC Week, giilanggalang returned to policy documents and activities. two open community consultations, where community Wagga Wagga City Library, following its NSW tour. members provided instrumental feedback to Council in For many years, Council has run and supported events Featuring the work of more than twenty artists working relation to the draft plan. and programs to celebrate culture and heritage, on a miniature scale, this unique display was viewed in including significant events such as the National In 2017, Council reviewed and published Aboriginal the downstairs Youth Area. Community members came Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols – A guide and engaged with these varied representations of (NAIDOC) Week, National Reconciliation Week, Sorry for Councillors and Council staff. The protocols were contemporary First Nations arts practice in our region. Day and Apology Day. Council has also encouraged finalised following extensive consultation with local This exhibition was supported by the NSW Government First Nations staff to celebrate NAIDOC Week through Wiradjuri Elders and First Nation community members through the Aboriginal Regional Arts Fund and is a the provision of an additional day of allocated leave and continue to provide clear guidance to Council on partnership between Eastern Riverina Arts and Riverina during NAIDOC Week. how to ensure culturally appropriate practices that Regional Library. demonstrates knowledge and respect to the Traditional In 2016, Council decided to develop a Reconciliation Custodians of the land and country. The Home Project 2015 - ongoing Action Plan (RAP). This RAP was to further establish This innovative program which has The Arts Unit, positive relationships between local government Our present commitments NSW Department of Education working in partnership and First Nations communities, reflecting a genuine with the Art Gallery of NSW and Wagga Wagga Art commitment to reconciliation through projects On an annual basis Council continues to deliver many Gallery has been running over four years. Each year, deemed important to the community and by creating events, services, exhibitions, public programs and the program runs across three school terms, enabling opportunities in leadership and employment. projects in partnership with our First Nations Peoples. students to learn about Wiradjuri artists and their work, Furthermore, a RAP would provide a commitment to Some recent examples of projects include: while also exploring Wiradjuri language, culture and First Nations community members, through a publically heritage, through their own artmaking and personal available action plan. Together As One Reconciliation Week Project 2017 ideas of what home means. The program culminates in In 2017, an artwork titled ‘Together as One’ by a young In 2016 a RAP Working Group (RWG) formed, following an exhibition of work from students and teachers who local Wangkumara artist, Tyronne Hoerler, responding consultation with Reconciliation Australia. The RWG have participated. to the themes of National Reconciliation Week, was began drafting the plan. Throughout 2016 and 2017,
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 25 Cultural Burn Project 2017 - 2018 changing market for First Nations Peoples economic alongside the Murrumbidgee River. The project, In April 2017, in partnership with NSW Local Land development opportunities. commenced in 2013 in collaboration with funding Services, Council completed a Cultural Burn Project. partners NSW Local Land Services, Origin Energy and The project included training for eight First Nations Management Plan 2016 - ongoing NSW Environmental Trust. Construction of the site was Peoples in bush fire behaviour, use of firefighting Following the gazetting of a number of significant finalised in 2016, and officially opened in June 2016 with equipment and knowledge to conduct cultural burns. Aboriginal Places in the Wagga Wagga local a community launch. The participants completed fieldwork, surveyed government area by NSW Office of Environment The Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Lands Council vegetation and learnt the practice of identifying native and Heritage, a management plan for all sites were key stakeholders in the design of the wetland plants. The skills and knowledge gathered from the was developed in partnership with stakeholders. and provided advice on the cultural significance of training culminated in two cultural burns at the Silvalite Stakeholders included Wagga Wagga Aboriginal Land wetlands to the Wiradjuri people. They also provided Reserve and another adjacent to Bomen Axe Quarry. Council, Waagan Waagan Wiradjuri Men’s Group, advice on significant plant species and their traditional The program forms part of a continuing strategy Department of Industry – Lands, Riverina Local Land uses. The Australian Department of the Environment’s and Council will implement further cultural burns as Services and Office of Environment and Heritage Green Army initiative was utilised throughout the opportunities arise. and included consultation with local Wiradjuri Elders. development of the site, with the Green Army team Council is responsible for the management of four of supervised by Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Robert Hampton. the significant Aboriginal Places - Wollundry Lagoon & Join the Dots: Professional Development for The team planted over 22,000 native plants around Tony Ireland Park, Wiradjuri Reserve & Gobba Beach, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Creatives the ponds and installed a bush tucker garden. Uncle Bomen Axe Quarry and Flowerdale Lagoon. The – 2015 - 2017 Robert implemented the construction of Gunyas and management plan was signed by all stakeholders to Bora Rings, creating an area to be utilised for teaching In 2015, Council joined with local First Nations artists ensure an agreed and collaborative approach in place and learning about cultural heritage. to deliver a professional development program management. The management plan continues to for creatives to develop their hobby into a small provide the ongoing management strategy that guides In 2016, in consultation with other local Wiradjuri business. The program provided advice from Council on how to interact with the sites on a day-to- community members, a Healing Place was industry experts on professional liability, marketing, day basis to ensure these places are managed in a constructed. The Healing Place features native plants, a promotion, product development, economic manner that preserves their significance and promotes seating area and a hand carved totem pole created by opportunities and more. The ongoing success of First Nations culture. Wiradjuri Elders and donated to the site by the artists this three-year program continues to be evident and TAFE NSW Riverina Institute. with many of the participants going from strength Marrambidya Wetland 2013 - ongoing to strength. The connections formed through The Marrambidya Wetland is a stunning 20-hectare the program continue to evolve to suit the ever- reserve created from disused tertiary treatment ponds
26 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 Sorry Day 2018 Unveiling of the Sorry Day Rock to commemorate the Stolen Generations from Cootamundra Girls and Kinchela Boys home Image: Wagga Wagga City Council
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 27 OUR RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN
Walang Wiraduri Yinaa: Strong Wiradjuri Women exhibition at Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2017 Welcome to Country by Aunty Gail Manderson with Mayor Greg Conkey, featuring photograph of Aunty Pat Dacey. Image: Wagga Wagga City Council Wagga Wagga City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan is a strategic document developed by all areas of the organisation. The Action Plan was developed using feedback collated in the development of the Community Strategic Plan 2020, recommendations made by the RAP working group, discussions with Wiradjuri and other First Nations Elders, community forums, networks and community consultations. The RAP working group was instrumental in determining which actions should to be taken forward to provide clear deliverables through which council could measure progress. The RAP working group consisted of a range of members including Wiradjuri Elders and Wagga Wagga City Council staff from all areas of the organisation. The development of a RAP, is deemed by Council as best practice in acknowledging and working towards meaningful reconciliation. Council aims to demonstrate leadership to other local businesses, service providers and other organisations in commencing their own reconciliation plans.
Guya-gu Marraanba Yinaa: One Woman Fish Net exhibition at Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2018 Aunty Lorraine Tye with Jonathan Jones Image: Wagga Wagga City Council
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 29 RELATIONSHIPS
Wagga Comedy Fest 2018 Dane Simpson and Dane Kennedy Image: Michael Frogley Photography It is important to Wagga Wagga City Council to continue to develop positive relationships with our local First Nations Peoples community, as this will ensure we work respectfully towards shared goals. Council will continue to build these relationships through trust, mutual respect and the provision of supportive environments.
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
1. The RAP Working a) Establish a Terms of Reference document for the RWG September 2019 Objective: We have strong Manager Community Group (RWG) leadership Services monitors RAP development, b) Meet at least 4 times per year to monitor and report on RAP September, Outcome: We are accountable Manager Community implementation, implementation December 2019 and transparent Services tracking progress March, June, and reporting. September, December 2020 March, June 2021
c) RWG oversees the development, endorsement and launch of the July 2019 June Strategy: Report against actions Manager Community RAP 2020 June 2021 in strategies and plans Services
d) Ensure First Nations Peoples are represented on the RWG September 2019, Manager Community 2020 Services
2. Celebrate and a) Organise at least one internal event for NRW each year May 2020, 2021 Objective: We are active Manager Community participate community members Services in National Reconciliation Week b) Register our NRW event via Reconciliation Australia’s NRW May 2020, 2021 Outcome: We recognise we all Manager Community (NRW) by providing website have a role to play Services opportunities to build and maintain c) Support external NRW events by assisting with promotional May 2020, 2021 Strategies: Promote Manager Community relationships material distribution, locating funding sources etc. opportunities to be involved Services between First d) Ensure our RWG participates in a community event to recognise May 2020, 2021 Participate in volunteering Manager Community Nations Peoples and and celebrate NRW programs Services other Australians. Provide grant programs and funding opportunities for community groups
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 31 RELATIONSHIPS
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
3. Foster positive a) Develop and implement a community engagement strategy to September 2020 Objective: We are informed Marketing and relationships better collaborate, support and engage with our First Nations and involved in decision- Communications between First Peoples stakeholders making Manager Nations community members, b) Strengthen relationships between Council and key organisations December 2020 Outcome: Everyone in our Manager Community organisations and the in the areas of health, education and safety, for example; Mount community feels they have Services wider community to Austin Clontarf Academy and the Girls at the Centre Program at been heard and understood support outcomes Mount Austin High School and promotion of reconciliation. c) Meet with local First Nations organisations, such as Riverina June 2020 Strategy: Create inclusive Manager Community Medical and Dental Aboriginal Corporation, to develop and agree and accessible engagement Services on guiding principles for future engagement including frequency strategies of meetings, partnerships etc.
4. Raise internal and a) Incorporate RAP updates in team meetings/sector updates to December 2020 Objective: We have strong All managers external awareness ensure shared ownership of RAP deliverables across Council leadership of Council’s RAP to promote b) Encourage and support other organisations within Wagga Wagga December 2020 Outcome: We have leaders Manager Community reconciliation. Local Government Area to develop their own Reconciliation that represent us Services Action Plan
c) Raise awareness of Naraagunnawali: Reconciliation in schools December 2019 Strategy: Empower and equip Manager Community and Early Learning in schools and early learning services within community groups to promote Services our organisation’s sphere of influence leadership
d) Develop and implement a strategy to communicate our RAP to all December 2019 Marketing and internal and external stakeholders Communications Manager
e) Promote reconciliation through ongoing active engagement with December 2019, Manager Community all stakeholders 2020 Services
32 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 RESPECT
Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Cultural presentation by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Image: Jack of Hearts Studio INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 33 RESPECT
Wagga Wagga City Council aims to increase understanding, appreciation, pride and respect of First Nations Peoples cultures in order to create diverse, strong and resilient communities.
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
5. Engage employees in a) Ensure 85% of all staff attend Cultural Awareness Training by January 2021 Objective: City of Wagga Manager People & continuous cultural 2021 including: (all deliverables) Wagga services reflect the Culture learning opportunities needs of the community (all deliverables) i) Introducing lateral violence and intergenerational trauma to increase elements into Cultural Awareness Training Outcome: The City of Wagga understanding and Wagga has efficient and appreciation of First ii) Introducing Cultural Awareness Training into staff induction effective processes Nations Peoples training cultures, histories and Strategy: Work collaboratively iii) Incorporating an overview of Management Plan of Aboriginal achievements. with other levels of government Places and Office of Environment and Heritage training and the community modules into Cultural Awareness Training iv) Incorporating Reconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Council Staff into Cultural Awareness Training v) Consulting with local Wiradjuri Elders to ensure the current Cultural Awareness Training program promotes an understanding and respect for local Wiradjuri culture vi) Investigate opportunities for local Wiradjuri community members to develop and deliver Cultural Awareness Training for Council representatives and staff vii) Develop and implement a First Nations cultural awareness training strategy for our staff which defines cultural learning needs of employees in all areas of our business and considers various ways cultural learning can be provided (online, face to face workshops or cultural immersion)
34 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 RESPECT
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
b) Provide opportunities for RWG members, RAP Champions, HR September 2019, Manager People & Managers and other key leadership staff to participate in cultural 2020 Culture training
c) Distribute and promote local cultural experiences and immersion February 2020, Manager Community opportunities to Council staff via all staff emails and noticeboards 2021 Services where possible May 2020, 2021 July 2019, 2020
6. Engage employees a) Invite a Wiradjuri Elder to perform a Welcome to Country at the March 2020, 2021 Objective: We have strong Manager Audit, Risk & and the wider first Council meeting of the year leadership Governance community in understanding the b) Include the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: December 2020 Outcome: We have leaders that Manager People & significance of First A guide for Councillors and Council staff document in all new staff represent us Culture Nations Peoples induction packages cultural protocols, such as Welcome c) Provide information sessions to Council staff on the Aboriginal and December 2020 Strategy: Acknowledge the Manager Community to Country and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Traditional Custodians of Services Acknowledgement Council staff document the land as leaders in our of Country, to ensure community there is a shared meaning. d) Include an Acknowledgement of Country at the commencement December 2019 Objective: We are informed Manager Executive of all meetings as specified in the City of Wagga Wagga’s and involved in decision making Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols p.10
e) Organise and display an Acknowledgment of Country plaque/ December 2019 Outcome: Everyone in our Manager Operations display in Council office/s or on the external façade of the Civic community feels they have Centre building been heard and understood
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 35 RESPECT
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
f) Update our internal and external meeting agenda templates to September 2019 Strategy: Engage and Manager Executive include an Acknowledgement of Country recognise community groups Support
g) Include an Acknowledgement of Country on all email signatures September 2019 Objective: We are a tourist Manager Information & destination Customer Service
h) Consult with local Wiradjuri Elders to publish an December 2019 Outcome: We promote our city Manager Community Acknowledgement of Country on Council’s website, including and villages Services information to assist readers to understand its meaning and significance
i) Investigate the streamlining of budget lines to ensure accurate June 2020 Manager Finance reflection of Welcome to Country services for reporting purposes
j) Fly the First Nations flags at Council buildings as per the March 2020, 2021 Manager Audit, Risk & Australian National Flag Protocols Governance
k) Develop and maintain a list on the Intranet of Wiradjuri Elders December 2019, Manager Community who perform Welcome to Country for Council reference 2020 Services
l) Invite a Wiradjuri Elder to provide a Welcome to Country at all December 2019 Manager Community significant Council organised events as per Aboriginal and Torres December 2020 Service, Manager Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and (update progress) Executive Support Council staff
36 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 RESPECT
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
7. Recognise First a) Include First Nations dates of significance in Council’s corporate June 2020, 2021 Manager Executive Nations dates of calendars for internal use Support significance and cultural events. b) Invite staff to attend Council run events of First Nations Peoples December 2019 Manager Community significance for example; art exhibitions, guest speakers and December 2020 Services sporting events (update progress)
c) Provide opportunities to showcase First Nations cultures at December 2019 Manager Community Council organised events such as Fusion, Fresh etc. December 2020 Services (update progress)
d) Promote Council and community led cultural events to the wider September 2019, Manager Community community via existing council databases and Council’s online 2020 Services platforms
e) Acknowledge the inequities of the past and the First Nations March 2020, 2021 Manager Executive Peoples’ strength and survival in formal speeches in Australia Day Support celebrations.
8. Strengthen the a) Identify appropriate sites for re-naming/naming of parks and December 2019, Objective: We are a Tourist Manager Operations community’s significant places in Wiradjuri language, in consultation with 2020 destination relationship with the Traditional Custodians, to reflect the history of the local area and Objective: We promote our local environment to the importance of Wiradjuri culture cities and villages increase knowledge about local Wiradjuri b) Collaborate with key agencies to implement the Management December 2020 Strategy: Showcase the cultural Manager Operations culture and history. Plan for recognised Aboriginal places (November 2016) within the heritage of the Wiradjuri People Local Government Area
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 37 RESPECT
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
c) Work with NSW Local Land Services and Office of Environment July 2019, 2020 Manager Community and Heritage to investigate further declarations of Aboriginal Services, Manager Places in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area Environment & City Compliance
9. Provide opportunities a) Support First Nations groups to host NAIDOC Week events by July 2019, 2020 Manager Community for First Nations providing advice and assistance with elements such funding Services employees to engage applications, event management expertise etc. with their culture and community by celebrating and/ b) In consultation with First Nations Peoples, host a NAIDOC Week July 2019, 2020 Manager Executive or participating in morning tea and encourage staff attendance Support NAIDOC Week events.
c) Encourage staff to participate in at least one NAIDOC Week July 2019, 2020 Manager Community event Services
d) Review human resources policies and procedures to ensure March 2020, 2021 Manager People & there are no barriers to staff participating in NAIDOC Week Culture
e) Provide opportunities for all First Nations staff to participate with July 2019, 2020 Manager People & their cultures and communities during NAIDOC Week Culture
38 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 RESPECT
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
10. Preserve our region’s a) Investigate opportunities to create site specific public art July 2019, 2020 Objective: We are proud of Manager Community Aboriginal cultural opportunities that share First Nations Peoples stories with the where we live and our identity Services heritage. Wagga Wagga community Objective: We value our heritage
b) Include information about Wiradjuri people and history in visitor June 2020, 2021 Strategy: Indigenous significant Manager Community attraction publications spaces and places are Services resourced and protected
c) Undertake regular training to better manage and protect June 2020, 2021 Objective: We are a tourist Manager Operations Aboriginal cultural heritage assets in our LGA destination. Manager People & Culture
d) Undertake cultural training modules to adopt traditional land December 2019, Objective: We promote our city Manager Operations, management practices 2020 and villages. Manager Environment & City Compliance
e) Investigate creating a fixed Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) December 2020 Strategy: Showcase the cultural Manager Information & layer of Aboriginal sites to trigger Aboriginal Heritage Impact heritage of the Wiradjuri people. Customer Service Permit actions, where required
f) Promote local First Nations culture in Council buildings by December 2020 Strategy: Showcase the Manager Community displaying culturally significant assets, such as artworks, artefacts, heritage of the Wiradjuri people Services books and documents
g) Undertake programs to record First Nations Peoples oral histories December 2020 Manager Community at the Museum of the Riverina and Wagga Wagga City Library Services
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 39 OPPORTUNITIES
Tech Savy Seniors 2018 Elders and students from Bidgee School Image: Wagga Wagga City Council Wagga Wagga City Council will aim to establish and better support employment, procurement and professional development opportunities for First Nations Peoples, groups and organisations for a diverse and inclusive community.
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
11. Investigate a) Review and update Council’s recruitment policies and procedures December 2020 Objective: We have Manager People & opportunities to to reduce barriers to First Nations employees, and future employment opportunities Culture improve and increase applicants, participating in the workplace Outcome: We have career First Nations Peoples opportunities employment outcomes within our b) Increase First Nations Peoples employment to a minimum target December 2020 Strategies: Cater for employees Manager People & workplace. of six percent (6%) of all abilities Culture
c) Introduce cadetships and traineeships in Council for First Nations December 2020 Provide apprenticeship and Manager People & Peoples traineeship programs Culture
d) Include First Nations Peoples representation on recruitment and December 2020 Provide mentoring opportunities Manager People & selection panels for identified positions Culture Objective: We are a regional capital
e) Create and include a commitment to reconciliation statement in September 2019 Outcome: We attract and Manager People & all job advertisements support local businesses and Culture industry
f) Utilise local First Nations Peoples databases and networks to December 2019, Strategies: Encourage Manager People & promote Council vacancies 2020 businesses to use local produce Culture, Manager Community Services Manager People & Culture
g) Host a stall at local Aboriginal employment expos to highlight December 2019, Promote and support local Manager People & career opportunities within Council 2020 produce through festivals and Culture events
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 41 OPPORTUNITIES
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
h) Create a minimum of 1 identified position in an identified area of December 2020 Recognise and promote Manager People & future growth at Council successful business people in Culture the region
i) Collect information on our current First Nations staff to inform December 2019, Manager People & future employment opportunities 2020 Culture
j) Develop and implement a First Nations Peoples Employment and December 2020 Manager People & Retention Strategy Culture
k) Engage with existing First Nations staff to consult on employment December 2020 Manager People & strategies, including professional development Culture
l) Advertise vacancies in First Nations media December 2019, Manager People & 2020 Culture
12. Increase First Nations a) Develop a recommendation around value for members that December 2019 Objective: We are a regional Manager Procurement Peoples supplier determines if Supply Nation should be considered capital diversity within our organisation. b) Promote the sourcing of corporate gifts from local First Nations December 2019, Outcome: We attract and Manager Executive businesses 2020 support local businesses and Support industry
c) Deliver a community education program for First Nations December 2020 Strategies: Encourage Manager Procurement businesses to inform business owners how they can become businesses to use local produce suppliers to Council Promote and support local produce through festivals and events
42 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 OPPORTUNITIES
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
d) Assist First Nations businesses to better understand how to September 2020 Recognise and promote Manager Procurement provide quotations and bid for Council tenders by providing successful business people in advice and support on the process the region
e) Review and update procurement policies and procedures to September 2019 Objective: We are proud of Manager Procurement identify barriers to First Nations businesses to supply Council with where we live and our identity goods and services
f) Promote opportunities to First Nations creatives to sell their art March 2020, 2021 Outcome: We value our Manager Community and cultural objects at the Wagga Wagga Visitor Information heritage Services Centre
g) Incorporate First Nations businesses and/or businesses, which December 2020 Manager Procurement employ a high percentage of First Nations employees, into Council’s electronic procurement system and include request in vendor management system, expression of interest process
h) Advocate for local government policy and legislative reform to September 2019, Manager Procurement local government authorities, Indigenous business, Economic 2020 Policy Branch, NSW Policy and Reform Aboriginal Affairs to allow direct purchase agreements to First Nations owned businesses and/or which employ a high percentage of First Nations Peoples employees where value for money is evident
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 43 OPPORTUNITIES
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
i) Advocate for legislative change at state government level to add September 2019, Manager Procurement weightings to Council’s tender evaluations for businesses that 2020 have cultural heritage management plans and engagement with local First Nations stakeholders
j) Develop and communicate to staff a list of First Nations Peoples September 2019, Manage Procurement, businesses that can be used to procure goods and services 2020 Manager Community Services
k) Develop at least one commercial relationship with an First December 2020 Manager Procurement Nations owned business
13. Encourage staff to a) Promote volunteering opportunities for Council staff to volunteer June 2020, 2021 Objective: We are active Manager Community actively participate in with First Nations organisations, programs, events and activities community members Services First Nations programs, projects and events. b) Identify available volunteering opportunities with local First September 2019, Outcome: We recognise we all Manager Community Nations organisations 2020 have a role to play Services Strategies: Promote opportunities to be involved Participate in volunteering programs
44 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 OPPORTUNITIES
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
14. Support First Nations a) Develop and promote work experience opportunities at Council June 2020, 2021 Objective: We have Manager People & youth to develop their for First Nations school students employment opportunities Culture skills. Outcome: We have career opportunities Strategies: Encourage opportunities to volunteer Provide graduate programs
15. Integrate First Nations a) Recognise the importance of and promote cultural practices in September 2019, Objective: We are proud of Manager City Strategy objectives into Council urban spaces around Wagga Wagga through our strategic plans 2020 where we live and our identity strategic plans and and management plans Outcome: We value our policies. heritage
b) Provide onsite interpretive signage outlining the cultural December 2019, Strategy: Indigenous significant Manager Community significance and history of significant Aboriginal places within the 2020 spaces and places are Services, Manager Wagga Wagga LGA resourced and protected Operations, Manager Environment & City Objective: We are a tourist Compliance destination Outcome: We promote our city and villages Strategy: Showcase the cultural heritage of the Wiradjuri people
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 45 OPPORTUNITIES
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
16. Value First Nations a) Amend Council’s Project Management Methodology template December 2019 Outcome: We have strong Manager Project consultation on to embed a section to report on consultation with First Nations leadership Operations Council programs and stakeholders Outcome: We are accountable projects. and transparent
b) Meet 4 times per year with an Indigenous Consultative Group to December 2019, Strategy: Report against actions Manager Community review current and proposed Council programs and projects 2020 in strategies and plans Services
c) Develop and publish on the Intranet, a registered list of Aboriginal September 2019 Manager Community parties to be consulted with about Council projects and programs Services
d) Include First Nations elements (interpretative signage, use of September 2019, Manager Environment traditional names, native planting etc.) in Council development 2020 & City Compliance projects such as playgrounds, landscaping, gardens and buildings Manager Project Operations, Manager City Strategy
e) Consult First Nations youth in relevant policy development and September 2019, Manager Community decision making 2020 Services
46 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 GOVERNANCE, TRACKING PROGRESS AND REPORTING
Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Maliyaa dance group perform at the Marrumbidja wetlands Image: Wagga Wagga City Council INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 47 GOVERNANCE, TRACKING PROGRESS AND REPORTING
We will monitor the progress of Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure the accountability, governance and leadership of our organisation.
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040
17. Report RAP a) Complete and submit the RAP Impact Measurement September 2019, Objective: We have strong Manager City Strategy achievements, Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia annually 2020 leadership challenges and Outcome: We are accountable learnings to and transparent Reconciliation Australia. b) Investigate participating in the RAP Barometer May 2020 Strategy: Report against actions Manager Community in strategies and plans Services
18. Report RAP a) Integrate RAP reporting into Council’s Integrated Performance, September 2019, Objective: We have strong Manager City Strategy achievements, Planning and Reporting system (IPPR) 2020 leadership challenges and learnings internally b) Publically report our RAP achievements, challenges and learnings June 2020, 2021 Outcome: We are accountable Manager City Strategy and externally. in Council’s Annual Report and transparent
c) Provide annual updates to Council on RAP progress September 2019, Strategy: Report against actions Manager Community 2020 in strategies and plans Services
48 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 GOVERNANCE, TRACKING PROGRESS AND REPORTING
Link to Community Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Strategic Plan 2040 19. Review, refresh and a) Liaise with Reconciliation Australia to develop a new RAP based November 2020 Outcome: We are accountable Manager Community update RAP. on learnings, challenges and achievements and transparent Services
b) Send draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for review and December 2020 Strategy: Adopt good Manager Community feedback governance and ethical Services behaviours.
c) Submit draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for formal April 2021 Manager Community endorsement Services
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 49 SIGNIFICANT DATES AND EVENTS FOR OUR COMMUNITY
January 26 Australia Day/ Survival Day
February 13 National Apology Day
March 20 National Close the Gap Day
March 21 Harmony Day
April 25 Coloured Diggers Day/ Anzac Day
May 26 National Sorry Day
May 27-June 3 National Reconciliation Week
First full week of July NAIDOC Week
National Aboriginal and Islander August 4 Children’s Day
Wagga NAIDOC 2016 NAIDOC Week Ball attendees Image: Jack of Hearts Studio
50 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 A CONNECTED COMMUNITY THAT THRIVES ON POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY, AND PROVIDES EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER COMMUNITY MEMBERS. RAP Working Group 2017
THE LIGHTS OF WAGGA (2016) Aunty Kath Withers
“This artwork reminds me of previous trips, as a child, droving with my father. The circles represent the wagon wheels. The darker dots down the centre represent the river. All the other dots represent the lights of Wagga as you come over the hill from Galore.” Aunty Kath Withers is a Wiradjuri Elder and visual artist from Wagga Wagga. Her art is inspired by her life including memories of her childhood growing up in Tin Town on the Wiradjuri Reserve. Aunty Kath is an inspiration to her community and passes her art and cultural knowledge on through workshops inspiring Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal creatives of all ages.
This document is the outcome of consultation between First Nations People in Wagga Wagga and Council staff to provide an action plan for the City of Wagga Wagga to further strengthen Reconciliation across the Local Government Area.
INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021 51 CONTACT DETAILS For further information about Wagga Wagga City Council’s RAP
Postal Address Social Planning, Wagga Wagga City Council, PO Box 20 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650
Innovate Phone Reconciliation Action Plan July 2019 – June 2021 1300 292 442