Reconciliation Action Plan Department of Human Services and Department of Health 2011–2012

Home , Aboriginal Victorians, Bunjil, National Sorry Day

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Reconciliation Action Plan 2011–2012

Department of Human Services and Department of Health Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 ii Phone: (03)90967242 3000 Melbourne Level 27,50LonsdaleStreet, Aboriginal OutcomesBranch Department ofHealthReconciliationActionPlan(RAP),pleasecontact: If yourequire anyfurtherinformationontheDepartmentofHumanServicesand 13 [email protected] contact (03)90967242,ifusingtheNationalRelayService If youwouldliketoreceive thispublicationinanotherformat,please only whenpart ofthetitleareport or program. are partof Australia.AsnotallAboriginal peoplelivinginVictoria Koori,thisis used eastern it ispartofthetitleareport orprogram. Koorirefers toAboriginalpeoplefrom thesouth people. Aboriginalisusedin preference toIndigenous;howeverIndigenousisretained when Throughout theRAP, thetermAboriginalrefers tobothAboriginalandTorres StraitIslander Printed byCondorgroup Pty Ltd,Building2,Courtyard, 617SpencerStreet, West Melbourne. Designed bydfaDesign 50LonsdaleStreet, ofVictoria, Melbourne. Authorised bytheStateGovernment www.reconciliation.org.au and-strategies/reconciliation-action-plan-2008-2010 www.dhs.vic.gov.au/about-the-department/plans,-programs-and-projects/plans-and-strategies/key-plans- www.health.vic.gov.au/aboriginalhealth/ Also publishedon: with theprovisions oftheCopyrightAct1968. This publicationiscopyright.Nopartmaybereproduced byanyprocess exceptinaccordance DepartmentofHumanServicesandHealth,2011 © CopyrightStateofVictoria, Australia.October2011 Victoria, Department ofHumanServices,Melbourne, Published byIndustry, Workforce Government andStrategyDivision,Victorian are implementedthrough ourRAPactions. communications, policiesandeventsthat The artworkhasalsobrandedthe publication. excerpts havebeenusedthroughout the Reconciliation ActionPlan(RAP)and together tocreate thefront coverofthe Each ofthecanvaseshavebeenbrought and considerationoftheviewsothers. through thesharingofindividualstories in aconversationaboutReconciliation This approach aimedtoinvolveemployees experiences through art. and reproduce thesethoughts,feelingsand on regions. Employeeswere askedtoreflect and provided tooffices across theeight were distributedthroughout centraloffice Aboriginal andTorres StraitIslanderflags, Canvases andpaints,inthecoloursof Human ServicesandDepartmentofHealth. Aboriginal employeesoftheDepartment Reconciliation forAboriginalandnon- This artworkdepictsthemeaningof Health of Department and Services Human of Department the of Employees Coverartists: “what Reconciliationmeanstome” 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. 9.

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cover artists Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 iv Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 settlement on Australia’son settlement peoples. First white effects of the of recognition the and goodwill,respect of mutual attitudes, spirit a Reconciliationeveryone’sis business...positive Australia. of heritage Indigenous differencesthe celebratingand time,cultural respecting same the at while equally,treated are people non-Aboriginal Australia,and all-inclusive Aboriginal where an To about Reconciliationbe me should respect. of understanding action,an an feeling,opportunities.Reconciliationa is differenceshealth,and the in education non-Aboriginal.reconcilingIt’sor about Aboriginal are they whether – opportunities same the have people all ensuring about heritage.It’sand culture Aboriginal Australianthe of understanding and respect, appreciationReconciliationabout is one. as not together road the take we that Reconciliationmeans me’to Reconciliation means ‘What appropriate. culturally and respectful are that ways in services health deliver to how understand best to people Aboriginal with partnership in work should we that Australiansand other all as health good achieve and services health access to opportunities same the have people Aboriginal that ensure should programs.particular, we In that believe I Health of Department deliver we way the about decisions make we which in way Forthe me, Reconciliationunderpin should Information,Evaluation,Performance & Analysis Children, YouthFamiliesDivision,& DHS Population Health & Service Planning, Service & PopulationHealth Social and Community Strategy Unit,StrategyCommunity and Social Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS John Gorrie,Advocate,John Aboriginal Jason Selim,Advisor,Jason Senior Loddon Mallee Region,Mallee Loddon DH Louise Simm,Louise Coordinator, Janet Chapman, Manager Janet Hume Region,Hume DH general opportunity.general health,in employment,people and education Aboriginal by experienceddisadvantage the address to measures practical as well Australians,First the as of place honoured the of recognitioninvolves symbolic today.people Aboriginal of Reconciliation lives affectsthe past the how and past the of understanding better a forwardwith Australiansmoving all healing.It’s and about Reconciliationinvolvesjustice, recognition belong. also I which to place this of history and land, the spirit intimately more know to come to connect, how to and how me teach me, to help to people Aboriginal out seek to me enables level, personal it more a On together.do can we is it rather what you, but for do I can Australian what Aboriginal an ask longer no DHS, with might I working person non-Aboriginal a as that Reconciliationmeans and faith for the future. the faithfor and provideoptimism can past the of practices divisive that understand to ability the having century.this nationabout a is as It be to want Reconciliation,view, we my where in about is Service Development and Quality,and Development Service DH Sally Rose, Senior Project Manager,Rose, Sally Project Senior Senior Aboriginal Planning Officer,Planning Aboriginal Senior Disability Services Division, DHS Services Disability Carmel Sait,Carmel ProgramAdviser, Community Development,Community Gippsland Region,Gippsland DHS TroyDonald,Mc Victoria’s Aboriginalpeopletoday. communities both pastandpresent and acknowledgetheongoing contributionmadeby the Traditional Ownersoftheland, payrespect totheElders of Victoria’s Aboriginal Opportunity. thesepillarsasthefoundationfor RAP, With bothdepartmentsacknowledge demonstrating acommitment tothefourpillarsofRespect,Culture, Relationshipsand This RAPsupportstheDepartment ofHumanServicesandtheDepartmentHealth in of Traditional Acknowledgement Owners RAP ImplementationGr Monitoring andReporting Our ReconciliationActionPlanjour Reconciliation ActionsandT Reflecting onourinauguralRAP2010-2011 Our Appr Our Business Our V Secr Message fromntents ourMinisters C Opportunities Relationships Culture Respect o etaries’ foreword ision forReconciliation

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contents Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Message from our Ministers vi Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 with Aboriginal Victorians are the only wayforward.only the areAboriginal Victorians with partnerships that belief strong our on based is approach Our respect. people. Torecognition and of processus, a Reconciliationabout is non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal between understanding mutual and trust Reconciliationon relationshipsbased involvesrespectful building Messagef Minister forHousing Hon Wendy LovellMLC Minister forCommunityServices Minister forWomen’s Affairs Minister forMentalHealth Hon MaryWooldridge MP a shared prideinAboriginalexpertise, a culturaljourney. TheRAPalsopromotes engaging individualsandorganisationson funded agenciesisasignificantmilestonein 2011 and2012todepartmentalstaff and Competence trainingprograms during The deliveryofBuildingAboriginalCultural commitment andouraccountability. people. TheactionsinthisRAPreinforce our through betterengagementwithAboriginal servicesforAboriginalVictorians, government access tomainstream servicesandimproved framework andwillcontributetoimproved Action Plan(RAP)reflects theintentof to considerinclusion.ThisReconciliation for anagreed approach fordepartments Inclusion Frameworkformstheprimarybasis Government’sThe Victorian Aboriginal restored fundingtoReconciliationVictoria. has CoalitionGovernment why theVictorian outcomes. Itisaworkinprogress. That’s relationship thatdeliversreal andtangible to buildingandmaintaininganon-going Reconciliation requires acommitment r o m ou r Action Plan. practical actionsinthissecondReconciliation Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginalpeoplethrough on improving relationships between process. We congratulatethedepartments engage withthisRAPandtheReconciliation We encouragealldepartmentstaff toactively such anapproach. justice. Reconciliationisanimportantpartof health, housing,education,employmentand covers allareas ofpeople’s lives,including the gaponAboriginaldisadvantagethat need foramultifacetedapproach toclosing acceptsthe CoalitionGovernment Victorian Reconciliation ActionPlan2011-2012.The andDepartmentofHealth Human Services pleased tosupporttheDepartmentof As Ministersfortheportfolios,weare Aboriginal serviceusers. Aboriginal partnersinservicedeliveryand of inclusionandopensthedoorsforboth for Aboriginalpeopleisanimportantstep culturally safeandwelcomingenvironments achievements andcultures. Creating Minister forYouth Affairs Hon RyanSmith MP Minister forHealth Hon DavidDavisMP Ministe r s dates relating toReconciliation. Traditional Ownersofthelandand important information regarding acknowledging the resources highlightingprotocols andrelevant to Aboriginalaffairs. We havealsoproduced our understandingofimportanttopicsrelating shared knowledgeandinsightstoenhance series hascommencedwhere speakershave Aseminar significant contributiontoVictoria. or afterAboriginalpeoplewhohavemadea rooms usingtraditionalAboriginallanguage and process fornaminglargeconference achievements includedevelopingacriteria portfolios across ourtwodepartments.Other 104 withinavarietyofprogram areas and employed inJanuary2010,andnowhave progress. We had62Aboriginalstaff Action Plan2010-2011hasmadesteady We are pleasedthatourfirstReconciliation of ourRAP. progressed largelyduetotheimplementation employment ofmore Aboriginalstaff have Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginalpeoplethe of Aboriginalcultures, relationships between foundation ofrespect, betterunderstanding relationships withAboriginalpeople.The commitment tobuildinglastingandpositive Our RAPputsintowords ourlongstanding strong foundationtoimprove outcomes. and otherAustralians,aswellprovide a Aboriginal andTorres StraitIslanderpeoples strategy tostrengthen relationships between Reconciliation continuestobeakey world.the in culture living oldest es’fo the contemporary of practicesand historical the embrace and people Aboriginal achievements of the to respect payWe recogniseand a in Victoria.culture (DH).Aboriginal Health living the Weacknowledge of Department the and (DHS) Services Human of Department the for the present to Weproudare S ec r et r i (RAP) 2011-2012 Plan Reconciliation Action r and servicedeliveryforAboriginal people. toimprovecontinue theirjourney access mainstream organisationstobeginor We are alsoworkingtoencourage Aboriginal people,familiesandcommunities. improve thehealthandwellbeingof Aboriginal peopleandcontributeto services thatimprove outcomesfor Aboriginal organisationstoprovide continue workinginpartnershipwith Our departmentsare committedto as abridgeforimproved servicedelivery. included anactionthatutilisesReconciliation messengers. InthisRAPwehavealso staff tonominatebecomeReconciliation efforts through activitiessuchasencouraging more departmentalstaff inReconciliation Our refreshed RAPwillstrivetoengage to therefreshed RAP. commenced andhavecarriedthemthrough are committedtotheactionsthathave specialist informationandsupport.We respectful consultation,engagement, We recognise complexactionsrequire valuablelessons. many oftheseandlearnt our first12months.We haveachieved with atotalof29measurabletargetsin RAP wasaspirational–itincluded11actions core businesspracticefor staff. Ourfirst cultural knowledgeandReconciliationas The purposeoftheseactionsistoembed e wo r d vii

Secretaries’ foreword Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Secretaries’ foreword viii Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 ‘What Reconciliation means to me’to Reconciliation means ‘What Department ofHumanServices Gill Callister, Secretary not justduringReconciliationWeek . and divisionallevelinanongoingbasis conversations attheteam,program, branch to beengagedinReconciliationthrough We invitethewholeof departments treat all people and the way I work.I way the and people all treat I behave,way I the waythink, the I way the challenge will it Reconciliationabout,then is what of vision the to day.true am really I If every me inside wrestles that challenge perpetual the is -it me around happening external an Reconciliationnot “event”is other.each with compatibleare we which in ways maximise endeavour to and together harmony in Australians.all forfuture work to Weneed better a toward strive to need we that sense us,the behind in it put to past, the but acknowledge to essential is it that believe I harmony,or agreement compatible.make to To into bringing ‘reconcile’as defined is Sandra Nolan,SandraConsultant, Senior Aboriginal Eastern Metropolitan Region,MetropolitanEastern DHS Women’sProgramAdvisor,Health Judy Perkins,Judy and Community Planning and Development,and Planning Grampians Region,Grampians DH equality and inclusion for Aboriginal people.Aboriginal for inclusion and equality society.our creating Reconciliationabout is fabricof the of part as culture Aboriginal include better and inequalities current address to sorry,effortbeing and concerted a making people,Aboriginal to saying caused have these sufferingthe and eventspresent)(and past of acknowledgement Reconciliationabout is values. important as other each for respect and harmony with future the into moving and past the of injustices with terms life. of to waysComing ancient on settlement white of impact Australia.the Acknowledging in culture Aboriginal of history long the valuing about is me Reconciliation to Department ofHealth SecretaryFran Thorn, our jointefforts makeadifference. that hasproduced manyrewards. Together, Reconciliation. Thisisanimportantjourney departmentscollaboratingon government Our RAPisunique-weare twoVictorian Emergency Management Coordinator, Management Emergency ProgramAdvisor, Health, Primary Loddon Mallee Region,Mallee Loddon DHS. Grampians Region,Grampians DH John Koopmans,John Susan Davie,Susan The principlesofRespect, this Reconciliation.forVision to commit Health of Department and Services Human of Together Department the O I encourage diversity, andcultivatevalue the past.However, weknowthat wehavea W traumatic historyandacknowledgeitisthis or singlepolicythatwillright thewrongs of collective responsibility toworktogether their culture, beproud ofwhotheyare and n buildingstrong andtrustingrelationships, history thathasshapedwhoweare today. feel safe to learn aboutculturesfeel safetolearn outsideof to unite,writeanewhistoryandbuild However, wealsorecognise itisnowtime culturally safeenvironment forallstaff; an strengthen thepathwayto u environment where staff feelfree toenjoy e acceptther and recognise W each othersindividuallifeexperiences, we willbehonestandopen,recognise create mutualbenefitforall and openlysharingourstorieswecan W contribute tothehealingprocess and and racismcommittocreating a non- W e r e r W e acknowledgethat r espect e r ecognise thatbytalking,listening A F Rela Vision fo Vision irst Peoplesofthisnation. boriginal peoplehaveshared a eject allformsofintolerance positive future together. each othersskills. Respect A e isnosingleactoflargesse boriginal culture and their own. A ti boriginal peopleasthe o Culture, Relationshipsand nships A boriginal and R econciliation. V ictorians. L ore r Reconciliation Opportunities areofourRAP. thecornerstones and celebrateourunique W form thefoundationfrom which encouraging all A its richnessandresilience andcommitto W visible inourphysicalworkenvironment e committoactivelybuildingconfidence W boriginal culture willbeweavedintothe and non- very fabricofourorganisation, uniting continue toworktogetherdevelop A opportunities andpathwaysthatwill e committomaking together in the journey towardstogether inthejourney true and evidentinourdailybehaviours. e embrace boriginal andnon- in theserviceswedeliverandwill their ownpersonalsuccess. Opp A boriginal peoplecandefine cultu R or A econciliation. V boriginal culture withall ictorians to learn, exploreictorians tolearn, tunities A boriginal people A r boriginal culture A boriginal legacy. e A boriginal

Our Vision for Reconciliation Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Our Business Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 2 O u r

• • • • its ‘StrategicDirections’: throughand wellbeingforallVictorians, committed toachievingthebesthealth The DepartmentofHealth(DH)is Health of Department currently 23Aboriginalstaff inDH. divisions andeightregions. There are approximately 1,685staff across five for MentalHealth.Thedepartmenthas the MinisterforAgeingand responsibilities oftheMinistersforHealth, the department,whichcovers The Secretary, DHoverseesandadministers promote andprotect health. Victorians’ health serviceproviders andactivitieswhich development, fundingandregulation of This isachievedthr • •

promotion client needs and drugalcoholservicestomeet Reduce thedisparitiesinhealthoutcomes Respond toanageingpopulation organisation Develop ourhealthservicesystemand Str Reform ourr Impr Business feedback responsibility to actandbehavewith respect andintegrity.’ important – withincreased knowledge comesanincreased Emphasising ‘knowledge transferaboutAboriginalissuesis engthen prevention andhealth ove healthserviceperformance esponse tomentalhealth ough planning,policy • Mental Health • • Health O • Aged Care •

ur Portfolios education andregulation. and related preventative services, emergency management,publichealth services. services, ambulanceservicesanddental hospital system,communityhealth their homes. to enablethemremain independentlyin people, alongwithsupportandassistance and treatment services. A rangeofalcoholanddrugprevention support services. psychiatric disabilityr consisting ofclinicalservicesand The publicmentalhealthservicesystem Health pr Health car Residential andr omotion andprotection through e servicesthrough thepublic ehabilitation care forolder ehabilitation and strategies. development andwomen’s servicesand services toclients,youthandcommunity homelessness, child,family, housingsupport department toprovide arangeofdisability, Over 1200organisationsare fundedbythe staff intheDepartmentofHumanServices. ThereVictorians. are currently 81Aboriginal offices anddeliverservicesdirectly to operate from thedepartment’s regional Thevastmajorityofemployees Melbourne. regional offices, aswellacentraloffice in We havethree metropolitan andfiverural The departmentemploysover11,800staff. experiencing disadvantage. to makeapositivedifference forVictorians high qualitycommunityandhousingservices the departmentisresponsible fordelivering Together withourservicedeliverypartners, Youth Affairs. Affairs, CommunityServices,Housingand leadership oftheMinistersforWomen’s We operateunderthedirection and life. opportunities forparticipationinVictorian to takecontrol oftheirlives andpromote communities tostrengthen theircapacity We workwithindividuals, families and community participation. andprovideVictorians opportunitiesfor community servicesthatsupportandprotect disadvantage through providing housingand most inneedbyreducing their experienceof works toimprove thelives ofVictorians The DepartmentofHumanServices(DHS) Services Human of Department • • youth servicesandjustice • Housing andhomelessnessassistance O • • • Empowering individualsandcommunities • • Disability Services • Child pr • Concessions • • •

ur people and wellbeingofchildren andyoung participation of Victorian communities participation ofVictorian support thesocial,civicandeconomic and participation disability thatimprove mainstream access civic participation women thatsupportsocial,economicand accommodation support complex andchallengingbehaviours and supportservicesforpeoplewith people withadisability, familiesandcarers supervision services support servicesandcommunitybased and supportservices Family andcommunityearlyintervention placement servicestoensur Specialist andStatutorysupport of essentialservices Assistance tohouseholdsmeetthecost home ownershipmarkets Assistance toaccesstheprivater assistance Homelessness andfamilyviolence Public andsocialhousingservices Community participationpr Policy andpr Policy andpr Community-based r Individually tailor and challengingbehaviours Support servicesforpeoplewithcomplex Y outh justicecustodialsupervisionand O otection andfamilyservices, utputs ograms forpeoplewitha ograms foryoungpeopleand ed supportservicesfor esidential ograms to e thesafety ental or 3

Our Business Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Our Approach Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 4 also signalled support for a RAP.a for support signalled also 2008-2010 Plan Services Aboriginal RAP.a the to SignatoriesImportantly, and partners keyAboriginal our of development the with proceed to 2009 March 31 on endorsement providingformal by call this to respondedexecutive team DHS department’sexecutive.the to government of formerrole The vital Reconciliationthe of Australiapresentedon Directors of Board the of Co-Chair and AM Dodson 2008,ProfessorMick September when Background:in commencedRAP inspiration developinga forThe O u r refreshment ofourRAP refreshment Four considerationsunderpinthe and theSecretary, DH. 1. Jerring Board direction through ajointDHSandDHNallei The group provides regular reports andseeks Reconciliation intheworkplace. voice andagenuinedesire toadvance member ofthegroup contributesanequal central andregional office locations.Each (VPS) classifications,businessoutputareas, from manydifferent PublicService Victorian of bothAboriginalandnon-Aboriginalstaff Implementation Group includesmembership group ofpeople.TheDHSandDHRAP time, effort andconsiderationofadiverse Implementing ameaningfulRAPrequires Gr T

he The departments toprovide strategicdirection and coordination ofactivity impactingonAboriginal people.

oup Appr Nallei JerringBoard RA P 1 I chaired bytheSecretary, DHS mplementation o provides shared leadershipbybringing togetherkeydecisionmakers across both ach Aboriginal AffairsAboriginal in activity Health of Department and Services Human of Department 1.other Complement the NationalIndigenousReform Agreement supports theobjectivesagreed byCOAGin and strategicactionacross VIAF government. (VIAF) recognises thatchangerequires ajoint The governmentapproaches of whole current 2.supports RAP The as celebratingAboriginalpeopleandcultures. people, strengthening relationships, aswell between Aboriginalandnon-Aboriginal on sustainableactionsthatbuildrespect to fillthosegaps,withaparticularfocus gaps andthemeasurableactionsneeded years. OurRAPendeavourstoidentifythe place withAboriginalcommunitiesformany programs andpartnershipshavebeenin AnumberofrobustVictorians. policies, and toimprove outcomesforAboriginal both departmentstosupportReconciliation undertaken regionally andstatewideacross A considerableamountofactivityisbeing Victorian IndigenousAffairsFramework 2. in servicedeliveryandaspartners inkey recognise theessentialworkofACCOs the communityservicesspectrum.We across thehealth,housing,agedcare, and approximately 35ACCOstodeliverprograms people. Together, DHSandDHfund determination, runbyandforAboriginal and are animportantexpression ofself throughout Australiaforover30years Organisations (ACCOs)haveexisted Aboriginal CommunityControlled partnerships. strong valueof the and ControlledOrganisations Community Aboriginal of 3. roleWe the recognise focus intheinclusionmatrix. This RAPreflects someofthekeyareas for departments toconsiderAboriginalinclusion. an agreed approach Government byVictorian Aboriginal Affairs andprovides thebasisfor is aninitiativeoftheSecretaries Group on The targets are includedinthisRAP. target byDecember2013.Measurable reach a1.5percentAboriginalemployment these policieswitharangeofstrategiesto Retention Strategy2010-2013supports DHS andDHAboriginalRecruitment employment targetby2015.Thejoint which includesaonepercent Aboriginal Development ActionPlan2010-2015 Public SectorEmploymentandCareer is response government tothis The Victorian improving thewellbeingof Aboriginalpeople. a keyfoundationofclosingthegapand the publicsectorAboriginalworkforce is NIRA andVIAFrecognise that increasing key initiatives,includingReconciliation. uniquely positionedtoworkcollaborativelyon Indigenous disadvantage.DHSandDHare (NIRA) aimedatclosingthegapon

Karreeta Yirramboi: VictorianAboriginal Incorporated. Aboriginal ChildCare Agency, Aboriginal EducationAssociation AboriginalLegal ServiceandVictorian Victorian VACCHO, AboriginalCommunityServicesAssociation Limited,AboriginalHousing Victoria, Victorian Victorian Health Organisation (VACCHO). Italsoincludes theSignatoriestoDHS AboriginalStrategicFramework: This includestheDepartmentofHealth’ Victorian AboriginalInclusionFramework s peakAboriginaladvisorybody, Aboriginal CommunityControlled Victorian range ofstaff. further promote Reconciliationtoabroad on Reconciliation,actionsandideasto was circulated whichcollatedinformation team meetings.Inaddition,anonlinesurvey embraced theconversationsthrough regular in theirregions and/ordivisions.Staff also group memberslead‘RAPConversations’ To refresh theinauguralRAP, implementation Apology whichcomplementourRAPefforts. Day andontheanniversaryofNational take placeduringReconciliationWeek, Sorry of NAIDOCcelebrations.Regulareventsalso In 2011thedepartmentsmarked20years This RAPwillstrengthen theseopportunities. Aboriginal peopletogetherinconversation. staff andboughtAboriginalnon- and namingofconference rooms engaged inaugural RAPsuchas,theSeminarSeries what Reconciliationmeans.Actionsinour of ourRAP–representing staff thoughtson resonate withstaff andbecometheidentity The coverartworkproject hascontinuedto contribute toReconciliation. take responsibility fortheirownactionsto awareness andtoencouragepeople non-Aboriginal peopletogetherandraise staff aspossible;bringAboriginal and and RAPactionsaimsto:involveasmany Reconciliation, peopledo.Ourprocesses A documentdoesnotbringabout staff departmental involveto aims 4.RAP The reporting arrangements. RAP. Thisisreflected inourmonitoringand community We are committedtokeepingtheAboriginal established inourregions. Aboriginal AdvisoryGroups orCommittees and theDH.ACCOsare also represented on strategies, policiesandframeworksofDHS 2 informedoftheprogress ofour 5

Our Approach Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Our Approach Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 6

finding a positive way forward.way positive a finding and relationshipspeople, new developing Aboriginal of history culturalstrong the inequalities, current about address learning wrongs, to past action of acknowledgement Reconciliationabout Forme is Australia. of history and future the in phase new a build to able be will we established foundationis this Once Australians.all differencefor amongst respect and understanding mutual foundation of a building about be to Reconciliationneeds me’to Reconciliation means ‘What those messagesare included inthisRAP. of ‘whatReconciliationmeanstome’and these activitiesgeneratedpersonalmessages been developedfrom staff feedback.Bothof were manyinnovativeideas andthisRAPhas by theRAPImplementationGroup. There All feedbackwascollatedandconsidered feedback shared thisbeautiful experiencewith mycolleaguesand family.’ The seminar ‘wasmostinteresting and thoughtprovoking. Ihave healing, forgiveness, vulnerability, family, friendships, identity.’ created aspacetosafelyreflect on(andfeel)experiencesofpain, I appreciated howmuchsheappropriately shared andthereby That wassomewhatuniqueexperiencewithin theworkcontext. ‘Bindi drew usintoareflection ratherthanaconversation. Greg Nott, Manager Aged & IntegratedCare,& Nott,AgedGreg Manager Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DH Servicing Growing Communities,Growing Servicing TeresaLeader,Donegan, Project what it means to be Australian.be to means it what of sense shared a common,establishing and differences,in our hold we what realising Reconciliationinvolves:me forfrom learning humanity. common our remember to encouragesus and people all to offersdignity and respects that future better a for together present and past the Reconciliationbringing Forme means our inaugural of thinking. to capture newopportunities andways actions andensures our high energy leveltowards T also befortwelvemonths(2011-2012). T his timeframeenablesustomaintaina his secondeditionofour Emergency Care Improvement and InnovationCareImprovementEmergencyand Social and Community Strategy Unit,StrategyCommunity and Social Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS RA Elif Cetiner Senior Project Officer, Project Senior Cetiner Elif P (2010-2011)andwill Kari Gibson,Kari Graduate, VPS RA Clinical Network,Clinical DH R RA econciliation P isresponsive P follows Region andtheGippslandRegion. Conversations heldintheNorthandWest senior departmentalstaff through Community between Aboriginalcommunitymembersand importance totheregion were discussed Local servicedeliveryandtopicsof publication andstaff achievementawards. Spotlight articles,theReconciliationNews been recognised through theRAPCalender, The contributionofAboriginalstaff has Spotlight articlesontheintranet. communications through all-staff emailsand visual andwritingstyleguidesregular Owners (z-card), updatingofdepartmental reference guidetoacknowledgingTraditional Owners oftheland,developmentaquick to conference rooms, promotion ofthePolicy Strait IslanderandAustralianflagsin through displayofAboriginal,Torres culturally safeandwelcomingenvironment The departmentshavecreated amore has beenspontaneousandpositive. online survey. Feedbackfrom theseevents seminars, RAPconversations,eventsandan Reconciliation eventsandactivitiesincluding Departmental staff havebeen engagedin 2011). (September 104 to 2010) (January 62 fromincreased departments both staffacrossemployed Aboriginal of number the RAP the of period 2010.May in the launched Over both were Retention2010-2013 Strategy the and 2010-2011 RAP DHS/DH The Summary R o Reflections Demonstrate RespecttotheTraditional A P 2010-2011 P N ou Action Plan2011-2012 . departments oftheDHS/DH Reconciliation that encouragesstaff ownershipacross both also besupportedbyacommunication plan of Aboriginalpeople,therefreshed RAPwill stories aboutReconciliationandthesuccess sector. Aswellascommunicatinggoodnews sharing theirexperienceswiththefunded but throughmessage notonlyinternally the Reconciliation be involvedandharness inaugural RAPthattheyare enthusiasticto the developmentandimplementationof feedback staff expressed thatasaresult of Through RAPConversationsandonline through policydevelopment. communication focusedandinfluencing 12 monthstomeetthree areas: operational, considered abalanceofactionsoverthe action isandtherationaleforit?We also both departments?Are weclearwhatthe within 12months?Isitapplicableacross Isitachievable Does italignwithourVision? criteria wasappliedtosuggestedactions: were takenintoaccountandthefollowing When refreshing theRAPtheselearnings completed inthe12monthtimeframe. in theinauguralRAPcommencingbutnot be inclusiveresulted insomeoftheactions is complexandtakestime.Ourefforts to stakeholders, inthedevelopmentofactions staff, alongwitharangeofexternal Working inawaythatgenuinelyengages inarangeofworkenvironments.Victoria workforce thatisdispersed throughout DHS andDHcollectivelyhavealarge KeyLearnings Aboriginal Recruitment and and Recruitment Aboriginal r inaugu r al

Reflections of our inaugural RAP 2010-2011 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Reconciliation Actions and Targets Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 8 Opportunities as other Australians.other as Opportunities life same the havepeople Aboriginal ensure to together working and Australia;to Relationships;goodpeople Aboriginal contribution of special the (RAP):forPlan Reconciliation every Respect Action underpin to Reconciliationpillars Australiathreerecommends Reconciliation and and

Service Delivery Opportunities -Employmentand and Engagement Relationships -Communication Culture -CulturalResponsiveness &Development Respect -Learning key focusareas havebeenidentified: Under eachofthefourpillars,following supports Respect. continues tobecloselyalignedwithand focus onCulturalresponsiveness. Culture enables thedepartmentstoplaceastronger Reconciliation. Addingthisasafourthpillar is alsoanessentialpillarthatunderpins was overwhelmingagreement thatCulture embedded withintheRespectpillarthere of eachdepartment.WhilstCulture canbe pillars inthecontextofworkenvironment The DHSandDHconsidered thesethree feedback the future together’ iswhatIwouldlike tosee. working in partnership towalktogether, tostand strong andface and For metheRAPemphasises ‘thatthisisanongoingjourney improve myunderstandingandthewayIdobusiness.’ Through theRAPIcan‘activelyengagewithinformation and T a r get s A c tions regions, branchesorunits. particular actionsrests withspecificdivisions, in Reconciliationandleadresponsibility of mobilise interest andparticipationofallstaff whole DHSandDH.TheRAPendeavoursto RAP are relevant andapplicableacross the The actionsandtargetsidentifiedinthe our efforts toward Reconciliation. improve accesstoservicesandstrengthen each departmentscurrently haveinplaceto frameworks andexistinginitiativesthat build uponthemanypolicies,programs, The actionsandtargetsofourRAP holistic nature oftheRAP actions. cut across eachofthefour pillarsduetothe In manyinstances,thesekeyfocusareas

Continue tomakeReconciliationpartoftheeverydayconversationacross bothdepartments. FocusDevelopmentArea:and Learning other.each from learn talk,and listen to able physically,staffare that environmentsafe emotionally and culturally createa expertise,to culture,Aboriginal achievementsand aim in we pride shared a promotingpeople. By sufferingAboriginal and on loss profoundgrief, governmentpolicies, inflicted practices past and laws Australia.call we land that this Weacknowledge of People First the as people recogniseAboriginal and cultures Aboriginal We respect Res Action contributions. history, perspectives and Aboriginal culture, understanding of our knowledgeand Continue toincr p ect ease Responsibi Le Services, DHS. Capability, People Organisational DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch Group, Aboriginal Implementation RAP a d l ity T 2012 to December September 2011, Program targets: Commenceimplementationofthe (3 yearprogram) aur 02Celebrateprogress oftheRAPby January 2012 May 2012 Complete display October 2011 Establish group ime l ine M Foundation • Deliver thefollowingprograms: training program. Building AboriginalCulturalCompetence • • • to departmentandfundedsectorstaf of Reconciliation. Reconciliation, keyeventsand messages includes profiles ofstaff promoting publishing aDHS/DHcalendar that Aboriginal affairs ofDHSandDH. offices toshowcasestoriesrelating to display tobeusedbycentralandregional Establish aworkinggroup todevelopa managers. be undertakenbythefacilitators/project with localAboriginalcommunitieswill local perspectivesandconsultation Regional foundationprograms willinclude central andregional locations. e People Executive training (x13) Policy a su r

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Respect Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Respect 10 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Action Welcome toCountry. Acknowledgement and of theLandthrough the Traditional Owners demonstrate Respectfor the 2009Policyto Continue toimplement Reconciliation. activities thatexplore Engage staff in contributions. history, perspectivesand Aboriginal culture, understanding of our knowledgeand Continue toincr can contribute toward that goal. that towardcontribute can Australians non-Indigenous and Indigenous how and be to Australiancommunitythe like would we where of goal shared a to coming sides,both by committed were which wrongs history,in and eventsrights the discussing the about learning people non-Indigenous and involves Indigenous me Reconciliation to me’to Reconciliation means ‘What ease Social and Community Strategy Unit,StrategyCommunity and Social Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS CatherineNaylor, Officer, Project Responsibi Le Branch, DH. Aboriginal Health Branch, DHSand Outcomes Aboriginal Branch, DHS. Communication and Corporate Branch, DHS Outcomes Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal DHS andDH. Executive Directors DHS. Outcomes Branch, Central- Aboriginal and DHregion. from eachDHS Group members Implementation Regions- RAP and DH. Resources, DHS Regional Human Branch and People Services a d l ity T Ongoing Ongoing AgendaaReconciliationdiscussion By July2012 DisplaytheRAPartworkdepicting“What January 2012 Ongoing ime l ine and prejudice have no place. no have prejudice and racismdiversity,where future a building and people,one celebratingour as together coming about Reconciliationis me for M other communications. through communicationon theweband strengthened intheRAP2010-2011 Promote theprotocols thatwere website. are accessibleonthedepartments’ uploading audioandvisualimagesthat Reconciliation andRAPactionsthrough Utilise digitalmediatopromote (minimum of19discussions). Human Servicesdivisionsand8regions of Healthdivisions,6Department July 2012.Thisincludes5Department meeting betweenOctober2011and in atleastoneDivisionalorRegional of theartworks. Acknowledge themeaningandpurpose location inregional/central offices. for theRAP2010-2011inaprominent Reconciliation meanstome”,developed induction and/ororientationprocess. of Aboriginalculture intotheDHS/DH continue toincorporateacomponent As introduced intheRAP2010-2011 e a su r a b l e Erin Hill, Senior Project Officer, Hill,Project Erin Senior T Surgical Services and Critical and Services Surgical ar get CareProgram, DH Aboriginal culture. Create anenvironment thatisculturallysafebypromoting ashared prideandappreciation of FocusArea: ResponsivenessCultural Reconciliation. on together people non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal bring to aim we behaviours,daily our in evident environmentsphysicaland our in tu visible culture Aboriginal making Respect.By with aligned is Culture C Action and DHoffices. and visitorsinallDHS employees, serviceusers environment for safe andwelcoming Ensur ul e aculturally r e Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal Branch, DH. Aboriginal Health Branch, DH. Aboriginal Health DH. Health Branch, the Aboriginal DHS andDH Regional Directors a d l ity T names conference room Announce July 2012 nominations Call for February 2012 Ongoing Continueworkcommencedin2010 September 2012 12monthseachregion tofollow Within October 2012 ime l ine M endorsed through theRAP2010-2011. areas whichwas ofDHS/DHinVictoria, significant contributiontotheportfolio Aboriginal peoplewhohavemadea language namesorafterVictorian regional offices Traditional usingVictorian large conference rooms incentraland Implement theprocess fornaming RAP 2010-2011. conference room asactionedinthe centre ofboardroom tablesineachlarge Islander andAustralianflagsinthe placement ofAboriginal,Torres Strait culturally safeenvironment through the Continue topromote awelcoming and Urban Workshop Building. Kulin Nation)intheground floorofthe (depicting BunjiltheEaglecreator ofthe acknowledgement ofTraditional Owners of 50LonsdaleStreet toinstall an (Building Owners)andco-tenants to workwithBuildingManagers,Trust building occupiedbythedepartments. Traditional Owners ofthelocation buildings asnegotiated,acknowledging plaque inbuildingreceptions oron and where thisisachieved, installa up withbuildingownerstogainapproval, e a su r a b l e T ar get 11

Culture Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Culture 12 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012

Action Aboriginal peoples. Promote thediversityof by thedepartments. and imagerypurchased cultur Celebrate Aboriginal e through artwork ‘What Reconciliation means to me’to Reconciliation means ‘What others around them. around others from reprisals of fear without history their acknowledge to and up stand to comfortable be and Torres to people Islander Strait schools.Aboriginal Forour all in taught be to came it way the Australiaand of history true culture.the Havingour of part not is or is what us telling us around others without culture our practice to ability the Having Australia.called land this of peoples First the being as country own our within accepted and Torresand recognisedare Islanders Strait Aboriginal when Reconciliation occur will FamilyServices, IntegratedFamily Services, Ann Spittles,Ann FamilyIndigenous Violence RegionalCoordinator, & Placement Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal a d Loddon Mallee Region,Mallee Loddon DHS l ity T eebr21 Purchase anddisplaytheAboriginal December 2011 Publish June 2012 group Establish working October 2011 ime l ine ground to build a better society.better a build to ground common find to authentically together come and past the acknowledge to opportunity the colonisation.Reconciliationwith providesus of effect the and history true the recognise we forward.untilmove this can we do We can’t beforeanother one respect and trust to need change. real We about bring to Australians non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal between trust building about but documents and words nice about just Reconciliationnot is M Clan groups. and Torres StraitIslanderLanguageand departments whichoutlinesAboriginal Islander Studies1994across the Institute ofAboriginalandTorres Strait Australia departments. Aboriginal artworksandimagerybythe publish aprotocol forpurchase of in theinauguralRAPtodevelopand group, continueworkcommenced Through theestablishmentofaworking e a su r a map produced byAustralian b l e Aboriginal Health Branch,Health Aboriginal DH T ar get Janet Laverick, Janet Director, as wellorganisationswhowepartnerwithtodeliverservices. Continue toengageindialogueandactionsthatincrease thecapacityofourownworkforce FocusArea: EngagementCommunicationand with.work we that organisationsstrengthening and deliver we services the in confidence building actively to commit work.addition, In at we people non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal relationshipsbetweenfoster to helps RAP our imperative that is it regions,such, eight as centralofficeand acrossemployeesand 13,500 overworkforcecombinedTogether of a represent departments both Relationshi Action partner effectively. staff toengageand capacity ofdepartment organisations andthe capacity ofAboriginal Strengthen the colleagues. and non-Aboriginal between Aboriginal strengthen relationships 2013 thatbuildand Retention Strategy2010- Recruitment and fr Implement strategies om theAboriginal Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch, Unit, Aboriginal Employment Aboriginal Branch DH. Aboriginal Health Branch DHSand Outcomes Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch, Unit, Aboriginal Employment Aboriginal a d l p ity s T March 2012 Commence October 2012 October 2011to Ongoing ime l ine M work practices. understanding ofeachorganisationand ‘shadow’ eachothertobetterdevelopan the Aboriginalsectoropportunityto provide staff inthedepartmentsand undertake aminimumofthree pilotsto proposal developedinthe2010-11RAP; As anagreed recommendation ofthe websites orthrough all-staff emails. Victoria, (DHS), HumanServicesinFocus,Health News, Spotlight(Intranet),Connected in anyofthefollowing.i.e.Reconciliation advancing Reconciliationintheworkplace Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginalemployees Regularly profile goodnews storiesof application andinterviewskills. Assist Aboriginalcandidateswithresume, responsibilities inthedepartments. sound understandingoftheirrole and assist theemployeetoformulatea support andaresource folderto Provide Aboriginalnewstarters with e a su r Health Break,departmental a b l e T ar get 13

Relationships Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Relationships 14 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Action and regions. departments, divisions and resources across information, knowledge for employeestoshare Create opportunities partner effectively. staff toengageand capacity ofdepartment organisations andthe capacity ofAboriginal Str engthen the future based on respect. on based future shared positive a building as well as past the acknowledging means me Reconciliation to me’to Reconciliation means ‘What Sarah Hill, Social and Economic Strategy PolicyEconomicStrategyHill,Sarah and Social and Client Outcomes Branch,Outcomes Client DHS and Responsibi Le Branch, DH. Aboriginal Health DHS. Outcomes Branch, and Aboriginal services, DHS Unit, People Capability to Adulthood)DH. Region (Transition Metropolitan Southern DHS. Youth &Families) Region (Children, Metropolitan Eastern Committee). Coordination Services DHS (Aboriginal Outcomes Branch Aboriginal Families), DHS. (Chidren, Youth & Western Region Barwon South a d l ity T June 2012 February 2012 Continuea‘seminarseries’initiated October 2011 Investigateandimplementopportunities August 2012 Promote accessto12fundedplaces February 2012 TBC TBC June 2012 TBC ime l ine of history. of wounds the repairing respectfully while traditions,and Australianculture Indigenous the understanding and Appreciating M Aboriginal themesofgeneralinterest. contemporary topicsthatrelate to to engageinconversationsabout and non-Aboriginalemployeestogether The three seminarswillbringAboriginal available toallstaff inthedepartments. through theRAP2010-2011 whichis and developmentprograms. participate indepartmenttraining,learning for Aboriginalfundedagencystaff to presentations toaudiences ofanysize. and confidentlyprepare formaking with theopportunitytocompetently a twodayprogram providing participants departments to staff employedinACCOs tothe sessions’ toshare theirstory. to joindepartmentalstaff for‘yarning users byarrangingAboriginalpeople to heartheexperienceofclients/service regions/divisions fordepartmentalstaff Create anopportunityforatleastfour e a su r Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS a b John Dunstan,Services,John Business l e Presentation Skillsprogram: T ar get to developmore responsive policiesandbetteraccesstoservicesforAboriginalpeople. Engage ininnovativepracticesthatwillhelptoincrease thenumberofAboriginalstaff employed Delivery Service FocusAreas:and Employment encourageReconciliation.and support to agencies funded with experiencesunities our share effort.and practices our model Wecan Reconciliationour strengthen to help staffwill Aboriginal of numbers the increasingworkforce largeand a sector.has public DH and DHS the in people Aboriginal more employing value of Wethe recognise Opp Action 2010-2013. Retention Strategy Recruitment and fr Implement strategies om theAboriginal o r t Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch, Unit, Aboriginal Employment Aboriginal a d l ity T eebr21 Publishsecondedition-‘Aboriginal December 2011 January 2012 commence Study-to-work Graduates and Ongoing ime l ine M - - - Aboriginal staff. following consultationwithManagersand Employment -Amanagersguide’ - regional offices: During 2011-2012across central and workforce. the retention ofthecurrent Aboriginal DH whileretaining astrong focuson towards thetargetacross DHSand December 2013.Continuetotrack Aboriginal employmentbyendof Progress toward achieving1.5%

e Continue tostr pr Implement theAboriginalstudytowork graduates r Implement theAboriginalgraduate people Employ anadditional40Aboriginal development. and provide specificprofessional including conductinganannualforum Aboriginal Staff SupportNetwork ecruitment program –target offour a ogram –targetoftenparticipants. su r a b l e T ar engthening the get 15

Opportunities Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Opportunities 16 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 Action Reconciliation. Engage mor staff inDHandDHS. contribution ofAboriginal Promote andvaluethe on serviceprovision. Reconciliation activities Consider theimpactof irrigirri isanAboriginalword meaning‘messenger’.Eldersfrom theWurrundjeri, BoonwurrungandTaungurung 3. not as an effort but as a culture! a as but effort an as not - lives everyday our featurein understanding and respect mutual where end the future,and better a build to together working are and past the difficulties of the acknowledged have we where place a to move to means the - end an and means a Reconciliationboth is me’to Reconciliation means ‘What

e staff in Traditional Ownergroups oftheKulinNationshavegivendepartmentspermissiontousethisname. W Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DHS Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal Messengers. Branch DH. Aboriginal Health Branch DHSand Outcomes, Aboriginal DHS andDH. People Services DHS. Outcomes Branch Aboriginal Sheila Ross,Sheila RegionalDirector, a d l ity T November 2011 January 2012 March 2012 April-June 2012 July 2012 eray21 Celebratethesuccessandcontributionof February 2012 Asinitiatedinthe2010-11RAPcontinue December 2011 Develop measures tobeincludedin June 2012 ime l ine and equity for all. for equity and support individual’swith community own every frameworksto appropriateon built opportunities shared provisionof the administrators.and Reconciliation means governmentsfailures of past of recognition countlessgenerationsand of presence historic the and culture of understanding Reconciliationrespect,andmeans education Service Sector Development, Sector Services, Disability Service M (ambassadors) program Develop • process andcommencetheWirrigirri Establish workinggroup todevelopa Call • Select • • • the bestawardsestablishedin2011. Aboriginal staff through theDHAchieving . Difference Awards Employee categoryintheDHSMakinga to promote theOutstandingAboriginal departments. and culturalawareness and safetyofthe of theRAPactionsonserviceprovision future reporting thatmonitorstheimpact e pr Reconciliation messenger Messengers non-Aboriginal messengers. Showcase Reconciliation activitybyJune2012. article. activities thr a ogram. su

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Our Reconciliation Action Plan journey Reconciliation actions in our RAP and beyond Launch the refreshed DH Achieving the Best RAP 2011-2012. awards. Commence the Call for conference room Report to ASSN. Building Aboriginal name nominations. Publish Arts Protocol. Online survey re RAP. Cultural Competence Purchase and display Central Office yarning Training. Aboriginal Australia Promote places to RAP conversations in staff in ACCOs to session. divisions/regions. Establish working maps. Installation of plaques to Presentation Skills Develop measures for groups for: the Arts Publish second 4th National Aboriginal Acknowledge Traditional training. impact of the RAP. Protocol, Bunjil edition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Owners in regional the Eagle and the Employment: a Second seminar in the Update to Inclusion and Third seminar in the Islander Children’s Day. reception offices. Wirrigirri program. seminar series. Cultural Safety working seminar series . manager’s guide. 9th International day Annual progress report group. Hold the first seminar DHS Making a 13th Anniversary of the 3rd 1992 Mabo of World’s Indigenous to DHS/DH Boards and for the series. Difference awards. Apology. Report to ASSN. anniversary. People. Reconciliation Australia.

Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept OCT 2011 2012

Establish a working Publish and distribute a Commence pilot of staff Complete display with Division/region Bunjil the Eagle group for yarning RAP calendar. shadowing program. Aboriginal Affairs story Reconciliation installation. sessions and the display for the departments. Display RAP artwork Training of Reconciliation discussions. Progress report to depicting an Aboriginal in central and regional messengers for Wirrigirri 26th National Sorry Day. Announce conference Nallei Jerring. Affairs story of the offices of origin. program. room names. departments. 27th May – 3rd June Study-to-work program Progress report to Nallei Reconciliation Week. Spotlight article – commences. Jerring and Aboriginal Wirrigirri events. 27th 1967 Referendum partners. Graduate program Anniversary. 1st – 8th NAIDOC Week. commences. Reconciliation News Verbal report to the Publication. ASSN. Call for Reconciliation messengers for Wirrigirri program. Monitoring and reporting 18 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 ng and Re and ng RAP.the in identified targets reviews progressagainst and monitors Reconciliation (RIG) joint ImplementationGroup DH and DHS Monito Reporting Action the RAP. Annual Reporton and Executive. departmental Secretaries Reporting to targets. on RAPactionsand promotion andreporting RAP through regular ownership ofthe Cr oss-departmental division. ThisRAPwillbereported onandrefreshed after12months. Members oftheRIGactivelypromote theRAPandprogress actionsintheirregion and/or across bothdepartments are alsomembers. DHS andtheSecretary DH. Executiveofficers representing arangeofdivisionsandregions departments, includingtheReconciliationActionPlan.Itisco-chaired bytheSecretary, Nallei JerringBoardeverysixmonths.Theoverseesjointworkofthe Progress reports ontheimplementationandprogress oftheRAPare provided tothe r Responsibi Le DHS. Outcomes Branch Aboriginal Branch DH. Aboriginal Health Branch DHSand Outcomes Aboriginal Directors, DHS. Outcomes Branch Aboriginal Branch DH. Aboriginal Health Branch DHSand Outcomes Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch Aboriginal Group. Implementation RAP i a d l ity T coe 022011-2012RAPAnnualProgress Report October 2012 September 2012 March 2012 Onlinesurveytoallstaff onuse, August 2012 Quarterly Refreshed RAPendorsedby October 2011 Launchofrefreshed RAP. October 2011 ime l ine p M to ReconciliationAustralia. six months. Board andDepartmentalBoardsevery Progress reports provided to Reconciliation activities. access andinvolvementinRAP Support Network. Verbal updatestotheAboriginalStaff on theirwebsite. Reconciliation Australiaandplaced o e a su r r a t b l e ing T ar get Nallei Jerring Aboriginal community put into reconnecting into put community Aboriginal the in people effort and time (unpaid) much how appreciate to learnt also have I community.Aboriginal the in across message a get to way best the often are meal or barbecue conversationsa over agencies,outside informal to across information get to presentations powerpoint use we while that example, learnt have I Forpast. the in this unawareof largely been havenormal” I or culturally-basedand are is what “usual, about ordinary assumptions culture.myOften dominant the to relation own my spots” awareof “blind more in much becoming meant Reconciliationhas me for me’to Reconciliation means ‘What 4. Action of Victorian Government of Victorian Provide updatestowhole Aboriginal partners Provide feedbacktokey RAP Australia ontherefreshed W

Agency, AboriginalEducation AssociationIncorporated. AboriginalLegalServiceandVictorian Victorian VACCHO,Community ServicesAssociationLimited,AboriginalHousingVictoria, AboriginalChild Care Victorian Organisation (VACCHO). TheSignatoriestoDHSAboriginalStrategicFrameworkare: Aboriginal Victorian The DepartmentofHealth’ ork withReconciliation s peak Aboriginal advisory body is Victorian AboriginalCommunityControlleds peakAboriginaladvisorybodyisVictorian Health Responsibi Le Branch DH. Aboriginal Health Branch DHSand Outcomes Aboriginal staff. Aboriginal planning DHS andRegional Outcomes Branch DH, Aboriginal Health Branch Aboriginal DHS. Outcomes Branch, Aboriginal a d l ity T Annually Bi-Annually October 2012 March 2012 2011/2012 September ime sometimes better) ways of doing things. doing of ways better) sometimes (andvalid equally other are there that and know,don’t I what know don’t I that fact the to bit a mind and eyes my open to begun has colleagues Aboriginal Workingwith familymembers. and children removal of the to due culture of loss from disproportionately sufferedhas that community a in is this important culture, how to and people members,community young especially l ine Southern Metropolitan Region,Metropolitan Southern DH Closing the Gap Project Manager, Project Gap the Closing M included indepartments’AnnualReports. Progress onRAPimplementation Cultural Safetyworkinggroup. Government Updates provided totheVictorian groups. departmental RegionalAboriginaladvisory Controlled HealthOrganisationsand peak representing AboriginalCommunity Controlled HealthOrganisationasthe AboriginalCommunity The Victorian the DHSAboriginalStrategicFramework, stakeholders; Regular feedbackprovided tokey and endorsement. Australia forfeedback,qualityassurance Refreshed RAPprovided toReconciliation e a su r a b l e Aboriginal Inclusionand 4 suchastheSignatoriesof T ar PatsyMorrison, get 19

Monitoring and reporting Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 RAP Implementation Group 20 Reconciliation Action Plan 2011– 2012 (2011-2012) and their commitment to Reconciliation.to commitment their and (2011-2012) RAP this and/orof development the (2010-2011) RAPinaugural the of actions implement to effortcontribution, and their fortime acknowledged areImplementationGroup RAP the of Members R A P Kylie Belling Kinsie Hope Julie Jenkin Jeremy Levine Janannie Blair Janette Kennedy John GorriePSM Janet Laverick(co-chair) Irene Tomaszewski Greg Nott Gerardine Christou Emma Thomas Daniel Little Claire Thorn Charles O’Leary Bobby Nicholls Angela Singh(co-chair) disability,communities. familiesand their a with people Aboriginal for supports improve to together work can we understanding, this first.culture their Withcelebrate and embrace respect, we that families,important their is it and people Aboriginal with working When me’to Reconciliation means ‘What Imp Melinda Flood, Program and Service Adviser,Flood, Service Melinda Programand Barwon-South WesternRegion, DHS le m Disability Partnerships,Disability entation Vicki ArmstrongVicki Trina Dalton-Oogjes Shane Nichols Syd Fry Sally Rose Sonia Harvey Sue Milner Shaan Hamann Sandra Nolan Matthew Duggan Melinda Flood Marie Gosnold Mirella Danelutti Mette Jorgesen Liz Heta Leanne Fary Kim Hood richer and more resilient. more and richer stronger,be will society our reconciling in that patience. acknowledging and Its will good quietly,community with and passionately to up present. showing It’sand about past the of policies of impact the of conscious consciously.culture, ancient an of Conscious act and work,think to commitment a me of asks and active be to Reconciliationhas Community Building and StrategicDevelopment,and Building Community Gr ou Social Inclusion and Planning, and Inclusion Social Fiona Strahan,Fiona Co-ordinator Grampians Region,Grampians DHS p