Reconciliation Annual Review 2 011– 12 By recognising what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been through and continue to face, by sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and knowledge with other Australians, by working together with trust, respect, understanding and a kind heart, we are working towards reconciliation and a fairer future. Contents

Co-Chairs’ message page 3

CEO report page 4

Constitutional Recognition—You Me Unity page 6

National Reconciliation Week page 9

Reconciliation Action Plans page 10

Indigenous Governance Awards page 13

Workplace Ready Program page 14

Executive cultural programs page 16

Indigenous Financial Services Network page 17

Financial summary page 18

Our supporters page 20 2 Annual Review 2011–12

Reconciliation Australia Board Directors (from left): Mr Peter Nash, Ms Joy Thomas, Mr Jason Glanville, Ms Djapirri Mununggirritj, Ms Melinda Cilento (Co-Chair), Ms Kirstie Parker, Dr Tom Calma AO (Co-Chair), The Hon Fred Chaney AO and Dr Ken Henry AC. Absent: Mr Sam Jefferies and Mr Terry Waia. Image, Lindi Heap. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 3

Co-Chairs’ message

Twelve years since we opened Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) National Reconciliation Week. Your of Indigenous Excellence, Jason our doors, Reconciliation program, our Workplace Ready enthusiasm to take this national Glanville to the Board along with former Program, and projects such as the movement and make it personal Secretary to the Treasury, Dr Ken Henry Australia is witnessing the Indigenous Financial Services Network and local by hosting an event is a AC, Australian Chairman of KPMG, greatest level of support in and other industry network groups. tremendous sign that we’re on the Peter Nash, and Senior Policy Adviser right track together. Joy Thomas. We also farewelled our history. From a record Our inaugural RAP Impact long-standing Board Director, Graham 632 community events during Measurement Report released in Reconciliation Australia was honoured Evans, who was instrumental in February 2012 shows our RAP to be tasked by the Australian National Reconciliation Week building our partnership with BHP partners have made significant Government this year to lead the You to the signing of our 300th Billiton and developing the Indigenous progress in the areas of cultural Me Unity public education campaign Governance Awards. Reconciliation Action Plan, the awareness, employment and for Constitutional Recognition of momentum for change is well Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander We thank all the individuals, and truly here. business opportunities—a great peoples. We believe that recognition communities, corporates and result for Aboriginal and Torres Strait and reconciliation go hand in hand governments for your ongoing support As the national body promoting Islander staff, management and and that constitutional change has and look forward to make Australia a fairer place for Aboriginal and Torres reconciliation between Aboriginal business owners. the potential to bring all Australians Strait Islander peoples and a better and Torres Strait Islander peoples This year we also celebrated the together. It is the next step in our nation for all Australians. and other Australians, Reconciliation launch of the 300th RAP, welcoming nation’s reconciliation journey. Australia provides a national focus to GrainCorp to the RAP community. Our campaign is underway with a Dr Tom Calma AO and drive the changes we know are vital to Our RAP partners’ achievements and leadership team and staff in place Ms Melinda Cilento ensure Australia values, respects and commitment to creating opportunities and we will build momentum and recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait and taking action is an inspiration and understanding next year by reaching Islander peoples and their contributions. testament to the progress that can out to get local activities and partners The programs and partnerships we be achieved when we respect one to help spread the message. have developed—and those we have another and build strong and enduring Finally, although some of the faces in place for the future—go to the heart relationships and partnerships. have changed this year, Reconciliation of overcoming employment, education We want to pay our greatest respects Australia’s Board continues to draw and health inequality. and thanks to the individuals, on the experience of its members to We cannot do this work alone. community groups, schools, art and extend Aboriginal and Torres Strait Our corporate, government and cultural centres, councils, businesses, Islander opportunities in economic, community partners are critical to the and government departments and public and cultural life. We welcomed process through involvement in our agencies who this year supported inaugural CEO of the National Centre 4 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

CEO report

Reconciliation Australia had and the office is now up and running in businesses and during NRL and they will continue the conversation in many wins in 2011-12, including . From this base we will focus on AFL games, including the 2011 NRL their communities. spreading awareness through activity Grand Final. A new Reconciliation Australia RAP a record number of Indigenous and partner funding rounds that will bring We were proud to be able to recognise was developed that will re-energise our Governance Awards entries. In all the message of constitutional recognition Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander national focus on reconciliation. We are to communities across Australia. of our programs, we are achieving peoples who were finalists in the 2012 proud of our internal progress in terms or exceeding our targets and the One of the best signs that reconciliation Australian of the Year Awards. Joining of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander results are heartening, but we is gaining ground is the level of us this year at our annual Australia Day employment. Of our current 29 staff, have much more to do. engagement it enjoys. This year’s breakfast were other finalists who are 38 per cent (11 staff) are Aboriginal or National Reconciliation Week received working with Australian Indigenous Torres Strait Islander people. This is This year, the Indigenous Governance outstanding community support, with communities. For me, the event amongst the highest rates of Aboriginal Awards (IGA) highlighted the talent the help of 21 ambassadors including highlights the importance of our work and Torres Strait Islander employment and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Hollywood hero Hugh Jackman, author in unifying Australia and recognising in the RAP community and above our Strait Islander owned organisations. Anita Heiss and cooking celebrities achievements. I’d like to congratulate target of 33 per cent. In 2012–2013, We also introduced a new category Mark Olive and Stephanie Alexander. Co-Chair Dr Tom Calma, along with we will continue to build organisational of non-incorporated Indigenous-run We’re grateful for the support from our our inaugural Co-Chair Shelley Reys, capacity; develop local relationships projects to broaden access to the ambassadors, and we look forward to on achieving the Officer of the Order of and continue to support the Australian awards. The result was gratifying, with building this network in the years ahead. Australia honours (AO) this year—a great Indigenous Minority Supply Council over 100 applications—more than triple recognition of their tireless campaigning (AIMSC) in the great work they do in Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) the number from the previous awards for social justice, and their generosity of promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Impact Measurement Report released program in 2010. spirit that permeates everything they do. Islander businesses. in February showed significant progress In February, Prime Minister Julia Gillard in the areas of cultural awareness, The future of Indigenous leadership is in We have continued to lay the announced that Reconciliation Australia employment and Aboriginal and Torres good hands judging by 100 emerging foundations for our future by investing would lead the You Me Unity people’s Strait Islander business opportunities. young Aboriginal and Torres Strait in our strength—our people. Through movement to recognise Aboriginal and The RAP community continued to Islander leaders who met in March at the new training, performance management Torres Strait Islander peoples in the demonstrate their commitment to National Centre of Indigenous Excellence and staff development, we have Constitution. Inspired by this opportunity, overcome employment, education and to have their say on constitutional enabled a high performance culture our work has been united in the theme health inequality this year and its ranks change. In May the Australian Electoral of accountability, professionalism and of recognition this year. I am pleased to are growing. Our RAP partners have also Commission’s inaugural National respect. We have encouraged and say we have already recruited the most been critical in building awareness and Indigenous Youth Parliament met in supported our staff to achieve beyond experienced people to run You Me Unity, momentum for constitutional change, . The enthusiasm of these even their own expectations including led by Tim Gartrell and Tanya Hosch, holding events at universities and young people was infectious and I hope Kiyah Missen representing Australia at Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 5

the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York and Nevada Brown gaining a Certificate IV in Indigenous Leadership from the Australian Indigenous Leadership Centre (AILC).

The team at Reconciliation Australia are eager to continue the work we have started together with our RAP partners, corporates, governments, communities and our ambassadors. We know tomorrow’s leaders grow from the inspiration and example we as a nation provide, and we look forward to supporting their journey.

Ms Leah Armstrong

Gabrielle Sullivan and Kathleen Sorensen from 2012 IGA finalist organisation Martumili Artists with Leah Armstrong in Parngurr, WA. Image, Wayne Quilliam. 6 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Constitutional Recognition—You Me Unity

In February 2012, the Prime homes and with their neighbours, in Recently, You Me Unity opened a Referendum, the Gurindji Walk Off and Minister appointed Reconciliation their community meetings and in their ‘Funding for Public Awareness Activities the many many more struggles that still workplaces, in their trade unions and in Program’ to encourage local activities create a sense of pride and justice for us. Australia to lead a public that help to broaden the awareness their churches.” As one of the deadly participants awareness and community and understanding of constitutional You Me Unity is now reaching out Verhonda Smith puts it: “Stay Strong u recognition. This funding round will support program about the mob and stay motivated, together we to all sectors of the community in its be followed by a ‘Funding for Public constitutional recognition of can make a change in this country, let’s drive to see Aboriginal and Torres Awareness Partnerships Program’, Aboriginal and Torres Strait continue what our ancestors started… Strait Islander peoples formally featuring larger amounts of funding. Peoples. Since then, we have set recognised in the Constitution. We THIS IS RRR TIME!!!!” Ms Hannah Donnelly, Co-Chair of the up a dedicated unit to coordinate have supported a number of events ‘R time’ for Rights, Respect and NCIE’s Youth Advisory Council, in a blog promoting constitutional recognition Recognition—one of the youth led the You Me Unity promotion and of her views on Constitutional Reform, this year, including the National Centre campaigns created and owned by a launched a nation-wide activities said many young Aboriginal and Torres of Indigenous Excellence’s (NCIE) group at the NCIE CRF Forum is just a funding round. Strait Islander Australians from all around National Constitutional Recognition small insight into the impact these young the country are stepping up and taking change makers will have. In her announcement, the Prime Forum; the National Indigenous Youth recognition forward. Minister said it was: “an opportunity for Parliament; AIMSC tradeshow; Canberra “I was lucky enough to be involved ‘R time’ is a perfect example of the multi- the Australian people to get involved… Multicultural Festival and a number of in delivering the National Centre dimensional meanings of constitutional to find practical information and solid speaker events with former members of of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE) recognition for young people. It places ideas and to discuss them—in their the Government’s Expert Panel. National Constitutional Recognition the meaning of the recognition process Forum. This connected a strong at the centre of a bigger picture, one Key achievements in 2011–2012 group of young people wanting to where recognition is a step forward but stimulate social change through the not the finish line. It is linked to deeper • Appointment of staff, including Campaign Director Tim Gartrell, Deputy constitutional recognition process. awareness of our rights as Indigenous Campaign Director Tanya Hosch, Communications Director, Misha Schubert. Participants expressed what recognition peoples and application of international standards to our local contexts. It links • Set up of You Me Unity Sydney Office. means to them as young people and overwhelmingly this discussion brought the implementation of the United Nations • Launch of national partnership promotion funding program to promote up the theme of honouring our history. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous awareness and discussion of constitutional reform. This reflection was based on respecting peoples to our recognition process and our elders and leaders who had fought ultimately self-determination of Aboriginal • National Centre of Indigenous Excellence’s (NCIE) National Constitutional and continue to fight for what we have and Torres Strait Islander peoples, to Recognition Forum and other promotional events and activities. today. Such as the 67’ Constitutional take us closer to the finish line.” Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 7

In February 2012, Prime Minister Julia Gillard (centre) tasked Reconciliation Australia to lead the You Me Unity public awareness program to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution. Pictured also are Minister for Families, Communities, Housing and Indigenous Affairs Jenny Macklin MP and Reconciliation Australia staff member, India Mortlock. Image, Wayne Quilliam. 8 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Reconciliation Australia hosted potential future leaders of Australia at the launch barbecue for National Reconciliation Week at Reconciliation Place on May 27. Pictured at the barbecue were (from left) Dylan Collard (WA), Kelsi Forrest (WA) and Brayden Grogan (Qld) from the National Indigenous Youth Parliament, which was organised by the Australian Electoral Commission. Image, Cole Bennetts. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 9

National Reconciliation Week

With a record 632 events—a (author), Wayne Quilliam (photographer), To help promote the event to as wide an Opera House. We produced engaging 386 per cent increase on last year’s Hannah Donnelly (youth advocate), audience as possible, we worked with advertising and editorial features for The Archdeacon Karen Kime, and Tom Indigenous Governance Awards winner Deal magazine, mX; , Deadly total—National Reconciliation Mosby (former Masterchef contestant). Carbon Media to produce a television Vibe and NIT while The Courier Mail and Week (NRW) 2012 was the most community service announcement The Daily Telegraph ran an education lift In Canberra, we hosted a barbecue at which was generously broadcast and out for school students. successful held to date. Twenty- Reconciliation Place with the National one influential Australians signed Indigenous Youth Parliament to mark the supported online by Foxtel, Qantas, The 20th anniversary of the Mabo Wesfarmers and Coles, BP, Essendon up as ambassadors to spread the 45th anniversary of the 1967 referendum decision signalled the end of NRW, and the start of the week. We also Football Club, Richmond Football Club, with celebrations held across Australia. reconciliation message, which also worked with national cultural institutions KPMG, NITV, Imparja, Nine Network, Reconciliation Australia supported the featured celebrations for the 45th to develop a reconciliation walking trail Prime 7, News Ltd, The Canberra Times, Townsville Reconciliation Festival and anniversary of the 1967 referendum within the Federal Parliamentary Triangle Federation Square and The Sydney Mabo commemorations. and the 20th anniversary of the where walkers could visit the various exhibitions, displays, films and public Key NRW achievements Mabo High Court decision. talks put on especially for the week and promoted it through a feature in The • Increased number of registered events from 130 in 2011 to 632 in 2012 Renowned Aboriginal chef Mark Olive Canberra Times. (‘The Black Olive’) and well known • Developed NRW website Our RAP partners were critical to the cook and author Stephanie Alexander • Secured the support of several high-profile Ambassadors were the faces of NRW 2012, joined success of NRW this year, with many hosting events and activities within their by supporters Hugh Jackman (actor), • Increased engagement with youth audiences through the Triple J network and organisations and for the public. We Anita Heiss (author), Juliette Knox social media owe sincere thanks to the Seymour (entrepreneur), David Koch (Sunrise Centre team, who ran a week of • Increased engagement with local councils presenter), Merindah Donnelly (NSW events, and to the National Maritime Young Australian of the Year State • Strengthened partnerships with RAP organisations Museum of Australia who hosted the finalist), Nova Peris (Olympian), Karen Nawi Indigenous watercraft conference. • Produced community service announcement for television Middleton (journalist), Air Chief Marshal Telstra, AIMSC, City of Sydney and • Increased publicity across media organisations both editorial and advertising Angus Houston AC, AFC, Casey the ACT Government enabled us to fly (including TV, radio, print and online) Donovan (singer), Alex Dyson (Triple J NRW banners in Sydney and Canberra presenter), Madeline Anderson (NAIDOC during the week and our thanks also go Youth of the Year), Kevin Kropinyeri to our State Reconciliation colleagues, (comedian), Poh Ling Yeow (artist and who coordinated a host of moving and cook), Luke Carroll (actor), Jessica Rudd exciting community-based activities. 10 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Reconciliation Action Plans

From humble beginnings in sense,” CEO Ms Alison Watkins said at As an active member of the RAP program, deliver more sustainable opportunities. 2006, with eight trailblazer their RAP launch where the organisation GrainCorp joins other RAP organisations Reconciliation Australia is committed to made a public symbolic reconciliation in contributing to a community of continuously improving the design and organisations involved, the statement by sourcing Aboriginal art practice whose collective impact towards implementation of the RAP program Reconciliation Action Plan from different communities across reconciliation is measured each year in to build on its current success. In the program has made great inroads Australia in which their business our RAP Impact Measurement Report. coming year, we will turn our attention to to improve relationships and operates—and painting their locomotives The first RAP Impact Measurement areas for improvement, and opportunities that travel across the country. Report, launched in February, highlighted to harness the knowledge within the generate greater equality for that the reconciliation framework of growing RAP community to better “As a company and as individuals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait building strong relationships based on share, support and encourage deeper we believe that through collaboration respect and understanding really does engagement in reconciliation. Islander peoples. Many of we can make a practical contribution Australia’s largest and most towards in employment respected companies have outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Key achievements in 2011–2012 (as at the end of April 2012) Strait Islanders and all Australians over signed up to the program and in • More than 1.6 million Australians currently work or study in an organisation that the next 10 years. March 2012, GrainCorp became has a RAP. “Now we are looking forward to the 300th organisation to join. • RAP organisations have filled 16,144 positions of the more than 23,000 they working with the broader reconciliation have committed to for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. community to learn more to ensure that The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) all our people have the opportunity to program aims to turn ‘good intentions • RAP organisations have filled nearly 1000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander develop and live to their full potential.” into action’ by encouraging and apprenticeships and traineeship positions. supporting organisations, large and small, Also at their launch, Reconciliation • RAP organisations have purchased $26 million worth of goods and services to develop a business plan that uses an Australia CEO Leah Armstrong said it from suppliers certified by the Australian Indigenous Minority Supplier Council holistic approach to building meaningful was great to see such a large company (AIMSC) helping to build Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses relationships and creating sustainable with a strong rural footprint publicly and employment. opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres committing itself to build mutually Strait Islander peoples. These business respectful relationships with Aboriginal • More than $9 million has been provided by RAP organisations to support plans allow organisations to engage and Torres Strait Islander peoples. scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. within their sphere of influence and “We know that respectful relationships • RAP organisations have committed to put 186,000 people through cultural identify mutually beneficial actions that are the key to creating sustainable awareness training and 24,000 have already taken this up. are aligned to organisational objectives. opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres • 161 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and communities are “For GrainCorp, having a Reconciliation Strait Islander peoples and their working with a RAP partner. Action Plan simply makes good business communities,” Ms Armstrong said. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 11

Nigel Hart, General Manager Storage and Logistics and artist Saretta Fielding. Image courtesy GrainCorp. 12 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Tjanpi Desert Weavers, from the Indigenous Governance Awards finalist organisation NPY Women’s Council. Image, Wayne Quilliam. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 13

Indigenous Governance Awards

In 2012 the Indigenous champions that set positive examples • Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara benefits transferred under the Ord Governance Awards attracted for other organisations to follow. By Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council Final Agreement to the Miriuwung changing the categories to include Aboriginal Corporation (NPY and Gajerrong people, the native title a record number of Aboriginal examples of Indigenous governance Women’s Council), which runs holders over their traditional country and Torres Strait Islander owned in non-incorporated organisations or programs in and services more than in the East Kimberley. projects we increased the pool from 25 communities and homelands organisations and projects. More The following were finalists in Category which we can draw applicants and spread over a vast 350,000 square than 100 organisations applied B for organisations that are outstanding showcase better governance diversity kilometers of the NT, WA, and SA. examples of Indigenous governance in a to be part of the prestigious within Aboriginal and Torres Strait • Secretariat of National Aboriginal and non-incorporated initiative or project: awards—three times the number Islander communities. of entries in 2010. Islander Child Care (SNAICC) which • Martumili Artists, Newman, WA, We have also created the only free, is the national non-government peak servicing Martu artists residing in the comprehensive and accessible body that advocates on behalf of Created by Reconciliation Australia, communities of Kunawarritji, Punmu, online governance resource targeting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in partnership with BHP Billiton, Parnngurr, Irrungadji, Jigalong, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families. to identify, celebrate and promote Warralong and Newman. organisations and communities: the effective Indigenous governance, this • Warlpiri Youth Development • Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly, Indigenous Governance Toolkit. The year’s IGAs featured eight finalists Aboriginal Corporation works representing the Community Toolkit helps individuals, organisations, selected by an independent judging to eliminate petrol sniffing in the Working Parties of Bourke, communities and enterprises that want panel, chaired by Professor Mick community. Brewarrina Broken Hill, Cobar, to improve their governance with easily Dodson AM. Collarenebri, Coonamble, Dareton/ downloadable content, templates, • Western Desert Nganampa Walytja Wentworth, Enngonia, Goodooga, “These finalists represent the best reference tools and guidelines. In the Palyantjaku Tjutaku Aboriginal Gulargambone, Ivanhoe, Lightning of what is happening in Indigenous coming year we aim to improve the site Corporation (Western Desert Ridge, Menindee, Walgett, communities,” Professor Dodson said. with new content including videos and Dialysis) Alice Springs, which runs Weilmoringle and Wilcannia, NSW. “Effective Indigenous governance case studies and ‘how-to’ web tutorials. remote dialysis services throughout is about Aboriginal and Torres Working closely with a range of stake central Australia NT/WAn (WYDAC) • Yiriman Project, Fitzroy Crossing, Strait Islander people making and holders, including governments and Yuendumu, Willowra, Nyirripi and servicing the Kimberley region, implementing decisions about their BHP Billiton, we aim to promote the Lajamanu, NT. WA with youth diversion, cultural communities, lives and futures.” toolkit broadly. maintenance and ‘a way to heal • Yawoorroong Miriuwung Gajerrong young people, heal country and In the past year, Reconciliation The following were finalists in Category Yirrgeb Noong Dawang Aboriginal heal community’. Australia has made a concerted effort A for Indigenous incorporated Corporation (MG Corporation) to encourage all applicants—not just organisations as outstanding examples Kununurra, WA, which receives finalists—to become governance of Indigenous governance: and manages the entitlements and 14 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Workplace Ready Program

Turning job opportunities The program was held in Sydney and to commit the organisation to clear • Understanding the benefits and into careers is our Workplace in 2012, and the 2013 actions to support social inclusion. opportunities that come from programs are scheduled for Brisbane Based on experience, when the CEO diversifying your supply chain to Ready Program’s goal. It helps and Canberra. It involves learning does not drive change, relevant actions include Aboriginal and Torres Strait employers to create the right from experts, such as the CEO of will be sidelined. This is because the Islander businesses. Diversity Council of Australia, Nareen CEO’s support is needed to ensure internal environment to attract, An online toolkit aimed to support Young, who presented on building the retain and develop Aboriginal that identified priorities receive the participants to engage broadly across business case for Aboriginal and Torres necessary investment, resources their organisation was produced by and Torres Strait Islander staff. Strait Islander employment. and commitment to succeed,” Mr AIMSC certified creative agency Carbon Willmett said. Funded by the Department of “Organisations must develop a Media. As well as providing information, Education, Employment and compelling business case for change Organisations chosen to participate in strategies and tools, the online toolkit Workplace Relations (DEEWR) and if they are to meet their Aboriginal the Workplace Ready Program take part contains “good practice” case studies created in partnership with AIMSC and Torres Strait Islander employment in six, one-day employment masterclass that are linked to each of the sessions. targets. In diversity practice we have certified company, LBF Consulting, sessions over six months on: Reconciliation Australia appreciates the been developing business cases for the Workplace Ready Program gives support of Commonwealth Bank and years and it works. Investing time • Understanding the business case organisations the tools, strategies Australia Post for hosting the Workplace in ensuring the business case is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait and information to achieve their Ready workshops in 2012. Islander employment. public commitments to Aboriginal and understood across the organisation Torres Strait Islander employment. is the first step in increasing the • Creating a socially inclusive The program is built on the premise number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait workplace. that strong relationships and mutual Islander people working with your • Recruiting effectively from respect are critical to sustainable organisation,” Mrs Young said. advertising to recruitment employment. Neil Willmett from business and processes and culturally employment services company “To meet our employment targets, appropriate interviewing. the Willmett Group spoke about we need to invest in more than just creating socially inclusive workplaces. • Developing post-employment the job opportunities—we have to He shared his knowledge on how on-boarding programs to achieve create workplaces where Aboriginal essential this is if an organisation is to maximum retention. and Torres Strait Islander people’s successfully diversify its workforce. contributions are valued and they are • Identifying career and personal supported to stay and develop their “Achieving cultural change in the development for current Aboriginal careers,” Ms Blanco-Francis from LBF workplace needs to be led from the and Torres Strait Islander Consulting said. top. This means the CEO needs employees. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 15

Workplace Ready project manager Karen Parter with Abi Group’s Sandra Triulzi and Deb Berkhout from GPT Group at a workshop in Sydney. Image, Cole Bennetts. 16 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Executive cultural programs

This year, Reconciliation non-Indigenous people who work in “Participants learn about Yolngu Australia’s executive cultural areas that affect Aboriginal and Torres traditions, beliefs, kinship systems, Strait Islander peoples’ lives,” Ms avoidance relationships, clans and programs gave almost 40 leaders Mununggirritj said. skin names. They gain a greater level the chance to engage personally of understanding and respect for the For the first time in May and June of Yolngu people’s culture and lifestyle by with Aboriginal people at the 2012, Reconciliation Australia organised sharing experiences with the family in a Garma Festival and in the remote two trips to the remote homeland of comfortable and relaxing environment.” homeland of Bawaka, in the Bawaka, in the Northern Territory for Northern Territory. corporate and government leaders to Some Reconciliation Australia staff gain valuable, first-hand experience of also took part in the program, gaining Yolngu culture and lifestyle. positive insights into the meaning of In August 2011, Reconciliation Australia reconciliation. took a group of 19 influential women Bawaka traditional owner Djawa from business, government, media and Burarrawanga runs the Wangany Dhukarr “A respectful relationship is a two way community organisations to the four-day (One Direction) Education Program, thing. Each learns and draws strength Yothu Yindi Foundation Garma Festival in otherwise known as Bawaka Cultural from the other,” Reconciliation Australia East Arnhem Land. For women who are Experiences. He started the program to Deputy CEO Chris Kirby said. engaged in developing government and bridge the cultural divide between Yolngu “The days we spent together were industry policy that affects Aboriginal and and non-Indigenous people through a conversation. We learned from Torres Strait Islander peoples, the event sharing his culture with participants. each other through the building of offers a personal cultural experience relationships. Some relationships will last Through Bawaka Cultural Experiences, where they can learn from each other in a and some will be fleeting but all were Djawa and his family share their culture, stimulating and challenging environment. respectful of each of our unique stories.” stories and sacred places as a way of The program, hosted by Yolngu elder ensuring their culture continues on. and Reconciliation Australia Board “We are passionate about improving Director Djapirri Mununggirritj uses relationships between mainstream and immersion in language, dance, art and Yolngu society and the Burarrwanga other unique experiences to create a family members share their history, bond and build trust. customs, language, stories and “We believe sharing stories and culture knowledge of the land in this two- is a personal experience of reconciliation day immersion experience,” Mr and can make a big difference to Burarrawanga said. Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 17

Indigenous Financial Services Network

Understanding how the finance sees financial education and access The IAG guides the IFN’s work industry can best support to affordable financial products as according to the need they see in the key to overcoming Aboriginal their communities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait and Torres Strait Islander financial Based on the past year’s Islander peoples to develop the exclusion. recommendations, the IFSN is knowledge and skills to manage “The barriers to accessing mainstream working to: their personal finance and finance can be as simple as the • Coordinate a review of current inability to provide necessary build a good economic base is identification compliance documentation, language difficulties or critical to addressing broader requirement and develop distance to a bank branch. Aboriginal a compliant process that challenges in health, housing, and Torres Strait Islander people are will support Indigenous education and employment. twice as likely to face difficulties in Corporations, Councils and getting credit from mainstream credit other appropriate parties to That’s why Reconciliation Australia providers and they have a significantly offer identification services to is proud to support the Indigenous higher reliance on community and their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Financial Services Network (IFSN), government assistance”, Mr Brennan Islander community members which aims to improve Aboriginal said. and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ • Develop a position paper “The banking and finance industry, understanding of financial services on Centrepay practices and needs to have greater understanding and their access to financial regulations with regard to of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander products. Indigenous Centrelink recipients customers’ needs if we are to better The IFSN project began with a facilitate intergenerational wealth • Facilitate the development recommendation from the National creation opportunities—that will go of improved communication Indigenous Money Management a long way to breaking the cycle of processes between state Agenda (NIMMA) in 2008, which Indigenous financial exclusion.” corrections departments and explored the money management major financial institutions and Reconciliation Australia coordinates and banking issues for Indigenous utilities companies. the IFSN’s work and Co-Chairs it individuals and families living in with the First Nations Foundation The IFSN and IAG are both funded urban, rural and remote locations. (FNF). FNF coordinates an Indigenous by the Department of Families, IFSN member, NAB Community Advisory Group (IAG) of Aboriginal Housing, Community Services and Finance and Development Manager and Torres Strait Islander financial Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA). The and Kamilaroi man Glen Brennan, counsellors and other representatives. four major banks support IFSN. 18 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Financial summary

Reconciliation Australia’s The result of Reconciliation Australia’s WHERE DO OUR FUNDS WHERE DO OUR FUNDS GO? financial sustainability depends consolidated operation in 2011–2012 COME FROM? was a surplus of $360,266 ($180,614 In 2011–2012 Reconciliation Australia on four major funding sources: deficit in 2010–2011). We are an independent, non-government supported 26 programs and initiatives, government grants; corporate which accounted for 77 per cent of the Reconciliation Australia’s general organisation and the proportion of our organisation’s 2011–2012 expenditure partnerships; philanthropic trust operational activities were funded income from non-government sources (70 per cent in 2010–2011). funding; and tax deductible by monies granted by the Australian is on the increase. However the bulk donations from individuals. Government, in addition to funding of our funding is still sourced from The information below only provides a received from corporate supporters and the Australian Government, through summary of the financial performance private donors. the Department of Families, Housing, and position for the financial year ended 30 June 2012. The full Annual Financial Total revenue and other income for Community Services and Indigenous Report, including the Independent Audit the current year was $6,022,286 Affairs. In addition, we receive funding Report is available on our website. ($4,940,465 in 2010–2011). Total from BHP Billiton and the Department Copies can also be ordered from: expenditure for the current year was of Education, Employment and $5,662,020 ($5,121,079 in 2010–2011). Workplace Relations. The Finance Manager Reconciliation Australia PO Box 4773 2011–2012 2010–2011 Kingston ACT 2604 or www.reconciliation.org.au Total revenue and other income $6,022,286 $4,940,465

Total expenditure $5,662,020 $5,121,079 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12 19

Sources of income

Government grants

Project funding 2012 2011 Proceeds from fundraising

Other revenue

Use of operating funds

Programs and projects

Communications

Policy and research 2012 2011

Operations

Fundraising 20 Reconciliation Australia Annual Review 2011–12

Our supporters

Building partnerships is the key to providing Arnold Bloch Leibler Imparja Television Prime 7 Television a national focus for reconciliation. As a non- Auspoll Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) Qantas government, not-for-profit organisation, Australian Electoral Commission Koori Mail Queensland Dept of Aboriginal and Torres Reconciliation Australia depends on Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs the help and financial support of many Australian Human Rights Commission KPMG Reconciliation Queensland Inc. companies and individuals. The Board and Australian Indigenous Minority Supplier Minerals Council of Australia staff of Reconciliation Australia congratulate Council (AIMSC) Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Reconciliation South Australia and thank all of our friends and partners Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Parliament House Reconciliation Victoria across the country for their commitment to Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) National Aboriginal Community Controlled reconciliation in 2011–2012. Reconciliation Western Australia ANTaR Health Organisation (NACCHO) Richmond Football Club Australia Post National Archives of Australia Major supporters Right Management Consulting Australian National University National Australia Bank Australian Government Rio Tinto Australian War Memorial National Australia Day Council Department of Families, Housing, SBS Community Services and Australian Youth Affairs Coalition (AYAC) National Centre of Indigenous Excellence Indigenous Affairs (NCIE) Seymour Centre BP Australia Department of Education, National Congress of Australia’s First Social Ventures Australia Business Council of Australia (BCA) Peoples Employment and Workplace Relations Sydney Opera House Canberra Theatre National Film and Sound Archive BHP Billiton Telstra Carbon Media National Gallery of Australia The Canberra Times Other partners and City of Sydney National Indigenous Times Triple J supporters Close the Gap Coalition National Library of Australia Victorian Government Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Coles National Maritime Museum of Australia Aboriginal Affairs Healing Foundation Commonwealth Bank of Australia National Museum of Australia Australian Council of Social Services Waterfield Consulting Pty Ltd Deadly Vibe (ACOSS) National Portrait Gallery Wayne Quilliam Photography Diversity Council of Australia (DCA) ACT Government News Limited Wesfarmers Essendon Football Club AFL Reconciliation Council West Australian Department of Indigenous Allen Consulting Group Federation Square Nine Network Affairs Allens Arthur Robinson Foxtel NITV Westpac ANZ Bank Gilbert + Tobin Oxfam Australia Yothu Yindi Foundation Patrons Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, AC, AFC (Ret’d) Ms Evonne Goolagong-Cawley AO MBE Mr Hugh Jackman Sir William Deane AC KBE QC Archdeacon Karen Kime Board directors Ms Juliette Knox Dr Tom Calma AO (Co-Chair) Mr David Koch Ms Melinda Cilento (Co-Chair) Mr Kevin Kropinyeri The Hon Fred Chaney AO Ms Karen Middleton Mr Jason Glanville Mr Tom Mosby Dr Ken Henry AC Mr Mark Olive Mr Sam Jeffries Ms Nova Peris Ms Djapirri Mununggirritj Mr Wayne Quilliam Mr Peter Nash Ms Jessica Rudd Ms Kirstie Parker Ms Poh Ling Yeow Ms Joy Thomas

Mr Terry Waia Indigenous Governance Awards judges National Reconciliation Prof Mick Dodson AM (Chair) Week 2012 ambassadors Mr Gary Banks AO Ms Stephanie Alexander Mr Chris Cotter Ms Madeline Anderson Mr Eddie Cubillo Mr Luke Carroll Ms Hannah Donnelly Mr Michael Dillon Ms Merindah Donnelly Mr Jason Glanville Ms Casey Donovan Ms Glenda Humes Mr Alex Dyson Dr Simon Longstaff Dr Anita Heiss Ms Jennifer Westacott Old Parliament House, Cover image: Jamal Daniel paddling in a bark canoe on Sydney Harbour at the stunning opening ceremony of the Nawi - Exploring King George Terrace, Australia’s Indigenous watercraft conference during National Reconciliation Week. The conference, at the Australian National Maritime Parkes ACT 2600 Museum, recently received a MAGNA 2012 Award. Image, Andrew Frolows courtesy of the Australian National Maritime Museum. Ph 02 6273 9200 Reconciliation Australia acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing www.reconciliation.org.au connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to elders both past and present.