The RACGP Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan

October 2020 – September 2022

LISTEN. UNDERSTAND. ACT. racgp.org.au/rap

2 I commit to read ‘Talkin’ up to I will continue to evaluate my own I commit to reading a range of fiction I commit to learn more about the the White Woman’ by Prof Aileen unconscious biases and help others see and non-fiction books by Aboriginal Traditional Owners and land where Moreton-Robinson and to call out racism. theirs. Focusing on a strength-based and Torres Strait Islander authors to I live, the Yerongpan and Chepora approach to understanding and learning understand their history, culture and clans at Benarrawa. experience from the perspective of from each other. a diverse range of Indigenous voices. I will learn ’s black history so that I can better advocate for Aboriginal I commit to model and speak the truth and Torres Strait Islander peoples. I commit to learn more about Aboriginal in all that I do, as it applies to equity for and Torres Strait Islander community I commit to learning more about the our First Nations peoples. Karajarri people from whom my children organisations across Australia. are descended. I commit to support more Indigenous businesses. I commit to ensure the RACGP’s Our commitment media messaging, marketing and I commit to call out racism and help I commit to supporting Aboriginal share the history and story of Aboriginal I commit to learn as much as I can and communication strategies, campaigns, and Torres Strait Islander businesses and Torres Strait Islander people make a small difference by sharing what and publications are culturally safe and organisations more and reading wherever I can. And to learn more about to reconciliation is … I learn with others around me. and inclusive. more to better educate myself on the how I can create a safe and culturally culture and history of Aboriginal and aware environment wherever I may be. Torres Strait Islander people. Our employees at the RACGP have made their I will actively learn about the history of I commit to reading more Aboriginal and own personal commitments to reconciliation the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander authored stories. I commit to continue seeking information people and learn about their traditions I commit to learn more about our shared and culture. history, particularly in my local area. on Australia’s Indigenous history. I commit to learning more about the To search for the opinions of Aboriginal Traditional Owners where I live. and Torres Strait Islander Australians today. I commit to supporting Aboriginal and I commit to continue my learning There is always more to learn! Torres Strait Islander businesses and journey through my study and work organisations and to learn more about I commit to deep listening and to further understand the context of ongoing learning about Aboriginal marginalisation, discrimination and I commit to learning more about how the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Torres Strait Islander cultures racism within this country, and how Front cover image: my family can support this important community organisations near where I live. Dancer from the Djirri Djirri dancers, and our shared history. we can all move forward together. a Wurundjeri female dance group. reconciliation program. Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 2 3 I commit to change, that begins with I commit to call out racism I commit to maintain relationships I commit to teach my grandchildren I commit to pro-actively reach persistence and commitment. and contribute to a culturally with local community groups, about the traditional owners of the out to ACCHOs to promote the safe environment wherever I am. to support cultural awareness and country that they are blessed to be born RACGP’s AOD GP Education Program; cultural safety educational activities, I commit to align with and seek support into, ensuring they understand their and collect ‘top tips’ from Aboriginal and continue to share respect from corporate partners that have a As a proud Gunditjmara woman place in overcoming the division must and Torres Strait Island health workers for cultural differences inside shared commitment toward programs I can assist by helping to educate come from a place of respect, across the country to share with GPs and outside of work. and initiatives that encourage and about our shared history, to better truth, justice, healing and love. participating in the program. support in explain the prejudice and show how General Practice. fairness and understanding can bring I commit to using leads from I commit to taking the initiative rather us together as a nation. I commit to do what I can, including ‘Supply Nation’. I plan to transition than waiting to be told. encouraging others, to promote fairness I commit to listen, reflect, the supply of some office and equity to indigenous peoples in all learn and engage. I commit to supporting Aboriginal consumables to local Indigenous domains of life. and Torres Strait Islander businesses organisations, eg the NeverFail I commit to become more aware of I commit to tell my community about as well as learning more about our water fountain can be replaced and issues and ways to help closer to home. shared history. at a cheaper price. the Aboriginal stories and culture and I commit to always fight for the inherent encouraging people around me to learn right Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander I commit to listen, reflect, more about it like myself. I commit to treasure Australia’s rich history, people have to speak out on issues that I commit to call out racism learn and engage. display my pride and to learn more. and contribute to a culturally safe directly impact them, and to push back I commit to speak up because there’s environment wherever I am. against those within institutions who try no room for racism in a strong and to silence those voices. I commit to be more aware of Aboriginal I commit to learn more about Aboriginal healthy society where everyone gets and Torres Strait Islander culture and the and Torres Strait Islander experiences to contribute and participate as a right. I commit to proactively improve I commit to learn more about the wrong doings in history and play a part and history through reading and film, And that’s what I’ll be doing too. my knowledge of Aboriginal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in reconciliation by using this awareness and consuming more Aboriginal content and Torres Strait Islander culture history and monuments in the area to educate the behaviours of others. generally, and engage with demonstrations and history. To increase my where I live. I commit to maintaining relationships and campaign where possible. with local community groups to support use/purchases of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned services, cultural awareness and cultural safety I commit to learn more about the I commit to explore ways of enhancing business and products. educational activities, and continue to Traditional Owners where I live, RACGP’s attractiveness as an employer I commit to respect and be aware of share respect for cultural differences and in the Western District where of choice for Indigenous Australians. Indigenous success and contribution. inside and outside of work. my family originates. 4 5 Acknowledgement of artwork

The original artwork, Creation Spirit – Healing Place, featured throughout our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was designed by Aboriginal design company Gilimbaa. Acknowledgement Here’s an introduction to the meaning behind the artwork. of Country Creation story – Healing place

The Royal Australian College Smooth iridescent skin caresses across to the Northern Territory, Western of General Practitioners the earth, unfolding its many layers. Australia, South Australia, , Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory and acknowledges the Traditional Mounds rise up towards the sky; Custodians of the land and Tasmania. The patterns also refer to carvings, valleys are created. This is the land markings, tracks, scarification and body sea in which we work and live, you belong to; these are the songs adornments – what is found in the landscape we recognise their continuing you sing. Thick smoke rises through and people’s interpretation of this landscape connection to land, sea and the fresh morning air. Bodies are reflected on their own bodies. culture, and pay our respects to adorned for this rite of passage This artwork also represents the traditional Elders, past, present and future. in a place of healing. possum skin cloaks worn by the people of the Victorian region. The squares of the checkerboard design represent individual The Rainbow Serpent, the Creation Spirit, possum skins that are sewn together to form moves throughout the land, creating the the cloak. Old and new meld. Through this, landscape. It gives people the knowledge and the RACGP pays its respects to Aboriginal Awarded Fellowship wisdom of the land, ceremony, song, dance and Torres Strait Islander communities across at the RACGP GP13 and lore – food to eat and medicine to heal. Academic session in Australia and to the Gilimbaa land on which Darwin, 18 October 2013 Surrounding the Rainbow Serpent are patterns general practitioners learn, teach and practise (L–R): Tammy Kimpton, depicting locations across Australia from the the art of medicine. Olivia O’Donoghue, Brad Murphy, Dr Catherine Torres Strait Islands through Queensland 6 Engelke and Dr Aleeta Fejo 7 President’s introduction

I am pleased to introduce Controlled Health Organisation, supporting the The Royal Australian College of Uluru Statement from the Heart General Practitioners’ (RACGP’s) and continuing our involvement with the campaign. Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for 2020–22. This is the The anniversary is an important reminder second RAP for the RACGP of some of our greatest achievements and key lessons for the future. The most significant and is a significant step in our is that Aboriginal health is everybody’s business reconciliation story. and we all have a part to play in achieving our vision. We understand that responsibility does not sit with one person or one team but with all Our vision is for a healthcare system free of of us, as individuals and as a community. racism. As the peak organisation representing more than 41,000 general practitioners, the Through implementing our RAP, we will RACGP has a critical role to play in realising continue to contribute to the ultimate goal change. Racism makes people sick; there is no of achieving equity in health outcomes for room for racism in healthcare. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This RAP forms part of our commitment to I am proud to introduce you to this vision through establishing a culturally our second RAP. safe organisation that supports continuous education and learning for staff and members. It has been developed in the same year we Dr Harry Nespolon mark the tenth anniversary of the National President, RACGP Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait BMBS, DipRACOG, FRACGP, FACLM, BEc, Islander Health. Through the faculty, we have LLB (Hons), MBA, FAICD, MHL demonstrated our enduring commitment to

reconciliation – strengthening our partnership Dr Harry Nespolon prepared this message before he with the National Aboriginal Community passed away on 26 July 2020. 8 9 Message from the Chief Executive Officer Message from

This is the RACGP’s second at the RACGP – one that is culturally safe Reconciliation Australia commends An Innovate RAP is the time to strengthen and Congratulations to the RACGP on your Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The Royal Australian College of develop the connections that form the lifeblood Innovate RAP and I look forward to following peoples. If we get it right in Aboriginal and In previous roles I have been of all RAP commitments. The RAP program’s your ongoing reconciliation journey. Torres Strait Islander health, we get it right General Practitioners (RACGP) framework of relationships, respect, and honoured to be involved for everyone. on the formal endorsement of its opportunities emphasises not only the Karen Mundine in initiatives designed to help inaugural Innovate Reconciliation importance of fostering consultation and There is one clear message at the heart of Chief Executive Officer close the gap between the collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait this plan – that we advocate for equity in Action Plan (RAP). Reconciliation Australia Islander peoples and communities, but also health outcomes of Aboriginal health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres empowering and enabling staff to contribute and Torres Strait Islander peoples Strait Islander peoples. Commencing an Innovate RAP is a crucial and to this process. and those of other Australians. It is my pleasure to launch this second RAP. rewarding period in an organisation’s reconciliation Some of these initiatives have been journey. It is a time to build strong foundations and With over 2.3 million people now either working a highlight of my working career. relationships, ensuring sustainable, thoughtful and or studying in an organisation with a RAP, the Dr Matthew Miles impactful RAP outcomes into the future. program’s potential for impact is greater than CEO ever. The RACGP is part of a strong network I believe the RACGP has a critical role in this Since 2006, RAPs have provided a framework of more than 1,100 corporate, government and issue and, as CEO, it is something that I see for organisations to leverage their structures not-for-profit organisations that have taken as an essential part of our existence. and diverse spheres of influence to support the goodwill and intention and transformed national reconciliation movement. it into action. The RAP is every single staff member’s responsibility, and we want to create activity This Innovate RAP is both an opportunity Implementing an Innovate RAP signals the for everyone to get involved in and advocate and an invitation for the RACGP to expand RACGP’s readiness to develop and strengthen for change. This RAP embeds the its understanding of its core strengths and relationships, engage staff and stakeholders importance of creating an inclusive culture deepen its relationship with its community, in reconciliation, and pilot innovative strategies staff and stakeholders. to ensure effective outcomes.

By investigating and understanding the integral Getting these steps right will ensure the role it plays across its sphere of influence, sustainability of future RAPs and reconciliation the RACGP will create dynamic reconciliation initiatives, and provide meaningful impact outcomes, supported by and aligned with its toward Australia’s reconciliation journey. 10 business objectives. 11 Our vision Our goal

The Royal Australian College of The RACGP acknowledges General Practitioners (RACGP) the wrongs of the past directed vision for reconciliation is for a towards Aboriginal and Torres healthcare system free of racism, Strait Islander peoples and the where all GPs and practice teams inter-generational impact of this. are trained to deliver culturally safe healthcare. Our goal is for the RACGP to become a culturally safe organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and support the work of our National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health. We will work collaboratively to promote the strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We will make every effort to be leaders and demonstrate our commitment through our voice and actions. We may not get it right all of the time, but we come to this journey with goodwill and a commitment to learn from our mistakes and strive to do better.

Wagiman man Nathan Patterson mentoring RACGP staff (Jackie Brown in photo) to paint , during NAIDOC Week 2019 at the RACGP National Office.

12 Dr Karen Nicholls 13 The Koori Youth Will Shake Spears Dance Group performing at the unveiling of the commemorative plaque at the RACGP South Melbourne office, 13 November 2009.

Our business

The RACGP is Australia’s largest The RACGP operates across eight offices The RACGP has a National Faculty of It aims to achieve this through: professional practice organisation – in Melbourne, , Canberra, Brisbane, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, Perth, Darwin, Adelaide and Hobart. All of these which was established in February 2010. • supporting GPs and other health and represents urban and rural offices operate on unique Aboriginal lands. In 2020, the faculty celebrates 10 years of professionals to provide clinically and general practitioners (GPs). The RACGP employs approximately 400 full-time operation. It is governed by an Aboriginal-led culturally appropriate and responsive The RACGP’s mission is to and part-time employees, including three staff Council and an Education Committee, healthcare to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities improve the health and wellbeing who identify as Aboriginal and/or is supported by a team of seven staff, Torres Strait Islander people. and currently has over 11,000 members. • enhancing engagement with communities of all people in Australia by The faculty provides the RACGP with strategic The majority of our employees work in the and key stakeholders supporting GPs, general practice and operational support to advance the National Office in Melbourne, across Corporate registrars and medical students RACGP’s work in the field of Aboriginal • enhancing the quality and effectiveness of Services; Membership; Policy, Practice and and Torres Strait Islander health. cultural awareness education and cultural in their pursuit of excellence Innovation; Education; and Fellowship Pathways safety training for GPs in patient care and community divisions. These functions support over service. The RACGP is committed 41,000 members working in or towards a career • advocating for improvements to Aboriginal to raising GP awareness of in general practice. The RACGP conducts and Torres Strait Islander health and its activities within the following key areas: primary healthcare service delivery Aboriginal and Torres Strait collegiality, education and training Islander health needs and their for general practice, innovation and policy • enabling the RACGP to acknowledge cultural context, and to advocating for general practice, and advocacy. and embrace Aboriginal and Torres Strait for culturally appropriate health Islander cultures delivery systems that improve • supporting self-determination and health outcomes. community control • ensuring members understand the benefits of faculty membership and actively contribute to the faculty and the broader work of the RACGP.

14 15 The 10th Anniversary

The National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health celebrated their 10th Anniversary on the 10th of February 2020 at the RACGP East Melbourne Office. The dancers featured in the photos are the Djirri Djirri dancers, a Wurundjeri female dance group and Traditional Custodians of Melbourne, which includes the land on which the RACGP National Office is located in East Melbourne.

The group performed traditional dances and sang The National Faculty of Aboriginal and in Woiwurrung language. Photos by Michael Jalaru Torres. Torres Strait Islander Health Council members and RACGP RAP Working Group The Djirri Djirri dancers, at the 10th Anniversary celebrations a Wurundjeri female dance group. of the Faculty in February 2020 16 Photos by Michael Jalaru Torres. at the East Melbourne Office. 17 Our Reconciliation Action Plan

This is the RACGP’s Innovate The RACGP Board is responsible for Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) endorsing the RAP, and the RACGP 2020–22. Through this RAP Champion will be responsible for updating Board members on the RAP framework the RACGP is progress every three months. committed to reconciliation and to improving the knowledge, The RACGP has employed a full-time skills and abilities required to Reconciliation Action Plan Advisor to coordinate development and deliver culturally responsive implementation of this RAP. health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A RAP Working Group has been established to develop the content of This work relies on creating a the RAP and facilitate implementation. culturally inclusive and safe The Working Group includes environment with strong representation from across the RACGP, relationships based on mutual including two members of the Executive respect. We hope this plan Leadership Team. Meetings occur serves as the foundation for every two months, with regular out-of-session work. future adoption of RAPs across our GP membership. The RACGP RAP Champion is on the Executive Leadership Team as the RACGP General Counsel.

Donnella Mills (Chair, National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation [NACCHO]) and Ayman Shenouda (RACGP Vice-President) at the signing of the second NACCHO–RACGP MoU at the annual NACCHO Members’ 18 Conference in Darwin, 6 November 2019. 19 The following representatives are a part of the RAP Working Group.

RAP Working Group

Gemma Kingsford-Smith Bernadette Axiaq The RACGP has also set up an Aboriginal and Senior Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Advisor Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee to and Chair & Communications provide advice and input into the RAP. This group includes representatives from the Australian Ruth Feltoe Clare Finucane Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA); Victorian General Counsel and RAP Champion Manager, Foundation (Funding & Research), Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Partnerships Amy Willows Organisation (VACCHO); and Torres and Cape RACGP-led Training Coordinator Michelle Gonsalvez Hospital and Health Service, Department of National Manager, Policy & Advocacy Health, Queensland. Paul Moloney General Manager, Human Resources Rob Stanley The Advisory Committee has met every month Senior Financial Planning and Analysis to review progress on the development of the Matt Rush Manager, Finance RAP and to provide advice. The RAP Advisory Head of Faculties Committee will meet every two months post- Abdul Qadir endorsement. Every second meeting, the Leanne Bird Manager, Assessment Development, Education advisory committee meets with the working Yorta Yorta/Taungurung group to collaborate on content development. Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal Jackie Brown and Torres Strait Islander Health Gurnditjmara/Dhauwurd Wurrung Executive Assistant to General Counsel Paula Rowntree and General Manager, Human Resources Head, Events & Experience Nevena Jelovac Francesca Trimboli CPD Program Coordinator – National National Manager, Media & Communications, Strategic Marketing & Communications Dr Tanya Schramm Palawa GP member

RAP Advisory Group at RACGP National Office 20 talking about Country, 23 January 2020. 21 RAP Aboriginal and National Faculty Torres Strait Islander of Aboriginal and Advisory Committee Torres Strait Islander Health Reflect RAP and beyond

The following representatives comprise the Staff members of the National Faculty Our previous Reflect RAP The RACGP progressed the activities of RAP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (November 2014) was developed the Reflect RAP largely through the faculty. Committee. All members of the group identify as play an ongoing role in supporting These activities are outlined in further Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. the development of this RAP. by the RAP Project Team and detail below. RAP Steering Group, comprising While the RACGP remained committed Dr Ngaree Blow Leanne Bird representatives from the RACGP Yorta-Yorta and Noonuccal, Goreng-Goreng Faculty Manager to reconciliation, it became apparent that RAP Advisory Committee: Executive Leadership Team, no one area should be responsible for Ada Parry, Dean Duncan, Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) Dr Ngaree Blow and Tom Mylne Shelby Simpson RACGP staff, Manager of the its implementation. A key lesson of the Mr Thomas Mylne Executive Support National Faculty of Aboriginal and intervening years since the Reflect RAP Gangalu and Membership Administrator has been that reconciliation and Aboriginal Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) Torres Strait Islander Health, and and Torres Strait Islander health needs Dr Tim Senior cultural advisors who were also to be everyone’s business. Mr Dean Duncan Medical Advisor members of the then faculty Board. Another key lesson has been the need Goomeroi/Kamilaroi Giulia Fabris for additional resources to support the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Senior Policy and Project Officer development and sustainability of the RAP Health Organisation (VACCHO) and reconciliation activities. Dr Mary Belfrage Ms Ada Parry (Wilmadda) Clinical Projects Medical Advisor The RAP process is also a reminder to Woodygupildiyerre/Marrithiel and Nganghikurrungurr the organisation that ‘Aboriginal health Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Kate Freeman is everyone’s business’. Embedding (RACGP) Project Coordinator accountability across the organisation ensures that everyone can play a role in the RACGP’s Ms Maria Tapim (Passi) Ada Parry reconciliation process. Dauareb Tribe/Meriam Nation, East Torres Strait Cultural and Education Advisor Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, The RACGP has committed dedicated Department of Health, Queensland Daniela Doblanovic resources to support the development and Education and Events facilitation of the RAP and reconciliation Dr Tanya Schramm Project Officer activities. These resources, together with Palawa the RAP Working Group, focus on ensuring GP Member everyone plays a role in reconciliation at the RAP Advisory Committee: Dr Tanya Schramm RACGP. Leaving reconciliation to one area prohibits other people from getting involved and from it being sustainable. 22 23 Actions of the RACGP since launching the Reflect RAP include the following.

• Advancing a comprehensive online • Developing its relationship with the - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The RACGP is also a key partner cultural awareness education and cultural Wurundjeri People, the Traditional Owners of general practice registrar award (Growing of Leaders in Indigenous Medical safety training program for all staff and the land where the National Office is located, Strong Award) – a scholarship of $5000 Education (LIME), sponsors their GPs using Aboriginal Community Controlled through engaging the Wurundjeri Council to to support attendance at the RACGP annual conferences and regularly engages Health Organisations officiate at events and perform ‘Welcome to conference, with residual funds going to with LIME in key activities. Country’ ceremonies • Developing the third edition of the National examination fees, generously donated The RACGP has a position statement guide to a preventive health assessment for by Dr Nathan Pinskier and Ms Pinskier • Producing with the RACGP’s on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander GPs - The Standing Strong Together award, health, which has recently been – a publication featuring nine Aboriginal • Acknowledging and hosting significant recognising a partnership between a updated, and a range of additional and Torres Strait Islander GPs across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellow or member of the RACGP and position statements relating to Australia working to ‘close the gap’ in events for staff during National Reconciliation an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes Week and NAIDOC Week and for organisation or individuals health, including on Racism in the Close the Gap Day • Regularly featuring the National Faculty of Healthcare System. Our remaining Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health In addition to the above, the National • Supporting a number of campaigns, position statements are due to be events and news in the RACGP’s social Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait including Close the Gap, as well as updated in 2020. media and newsGP; in November 2019, Islander Health: supporting the Redfern Statement the RACGP ran the Close the Gap campaign and the Uluru Statement from the Heart • runs Yagila Wadamba, a two-day general Twitter page for the month as part of its practice registrar training and exam • Continuing active membership membership of the Close the Gap preparation workshop that supports of the Steering Committee for Steering Committee Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander the Close the Gap campaign • Displaying in each RACGP office across registrars working towards Fellowship, and • Introducing five days of cultural and Australia the Aboriginal and Torres Strait works closely with AIDA and the Indigenous ceremonial leave for Aboriginal and Torres Islander flags, and a plaque acknowledging General Practice Registrars Network Strait Islander staff in the 2019 Enterprise local Traditional Owners; artwork is also Bargaining Agreement on display in several offices • is active in advocacy, contributing regularly to broader RACGP policy statements and • Participating in a ‘lunch and learn’ • Offering the following annual awards: Close the Gap Event March 2020, submissions to government on issues related Dean Duncan MC (RACGP RAP program with invited guest Aboriginal - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Torres Strait Islander speakers Advisory Committee) and medical student bursary award health, and writing or contributing to feature Mr Karl Briscoe (Chief Executive Officer of the National Aboriginal – the recipient is fully supported to attend articles for the RACGP’s online news and Torres Strait Islander Health the RACGP annual conference publication newsGP. Worker Association). 24 Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 25 Focus area: Healthcare partnerships Relationships Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Establish and maintain mutually Expand reach of relationship, partnerships and Memorandum July 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor beneficial relationships with of Understanding (MOU) with NACCHO across the RACGP to look for 1 Aboriginal and Torres Strait opportunities of mutual interest with positive health outcomes for Aboriginal Islander stakeholders and and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our goal is to develop and nurture organisations mutually beneficial relationships Further develop MOUs or formal partnerships and statements of intent with July 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor other parties seeking to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples or increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ participation in primary healthcare/general practice. Consult Prescribed Bodies Strait Islander communities and Corporate (Traditional Owners). organisations, to ensure that our Support state/territory faculties to foster relationships with Aboriginal July 2021 Lead: Head of Faculties contribution towards reconciliation Community Controlled Health Organisation affiliates in their jurisdictions, Support: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal and and foster ways to help create connections and promote each Review July 2021, Torres Strait Islander Health other’s services. July 2022 is delivered in a culturally sensitive National Manager, Policy & Advocacy manner that helps create Manager, Foundation meaningful change. Feed into strategic plans and help build templates and processes with GPs December 2021 Lead: RACGP-led Training Coordinator in training for engagement across the organisation. Support: Head of Faculties

The RACGP is committed to the Feed into strategic plans and help build templates and processes at a faculty December 2021 Lead: Head of Faculties level with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members. Support: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal and health and wellbeing of all Australians Torres Strait Islander Health by providing ongoing support to GPs, general practice registrars and medical Meet with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and July 2021 Lead: CEO organisations to develop guiding principles for future engagement. students. It is paramount to build rapport and develop great relationships with Aboriginal Build relationships through Hold an internal staff event during NRW through events and share resources 27 May – 3 June Lead: Senior RAP Advisor and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their families celebrating National and reconciliation materials. 2021/2022 2 Reconciliation Week (NRW) and their communities, helping overcome Ensure staff are aware of the significance of National Torres Strait Islander 27 May – 3 June Lead: Senior RAP Advisor the current health gaps in Australian society, Flag Day (29 May), which also occurs during NRW. 2021/2022 Support: RAP Working Group building understanding, respecting differences RAP Working Group to participate and all staff and senior leaders to lead October 2020, 27 May Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications and finding what we have in common. the way by participating in internal events to recognise and celebrate NRW. – 3 June 2021/2022 Support: RAP Working Group

The Djirri Djirri dancers, a Wurundjeri female dance group. 26 Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 27 Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility

Organise at least one NRW event each year in every state and territory. October 2020, 27 May Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Provide all staff with a copy of the RAP. December 2020 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor – 3 June 2021/2022 Support: Head of Faculties Support: National Manager, Media & Communications Faculty Managers Create a landing page on the RACGP website dedicated to the RAP and October 2020 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Register all NRW events on Reconciliation Australia’s NRW website. 27 May – 3 June Lead: Senior RAP Advisor related activities to ensure our membership and wider community are aware of the importance of reconciliation, and help provide areas for collaboration. 2021/2022 Support: Head of Faculties Faculty Managers Promote Conduct an evaluation and review of Human Resources policies and December 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources anti-discrimination procedures to identify existing anti-discrimination provisions and future Communicate with staff and members about national and state-based events. May 2021, May 2022 Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications strategies needs. Human Resources to evaluate and review existing culturally 4 responsive workplace policy.

RAP Working Group members to participate in an external NRW event. 27 May – 3 June Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Develop a bullying and harassment policy, and a recruitment December 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources 2021/2022 Support: RAP Working Group and selection policy.

Encourage and support staff and senior leaders to participate in at least one 27 May – 3 June Lead: General Counsel Evaluate, review and communicate RACGP’s anti-discrimination policy. December 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources external event to recognise and celebrate NRW. 2021/2022 Support: Senior RAP Advisor Consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and/or Aboriginal and December 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Promote reconciliation Develop a community engagement strategy. July 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Torres Strait Islander advisors in regard to our anti-discrimination policy. Support: Senior RAP Advisor through building relationships, Support: General Counsel partnerships and community 3 Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal and engagement strategies Educate staff, especially through the Executive Leadership Team, on the Review July 2021, Lead: General Counsel Torres Strait Islander Health effects of racism and unconscious bias (eg through supporting the ‘Racism. July 2022 Support: Senior RAP Advisor National Manager, Media & Communications It Stops with Me’ campaign). General Manager, Human Resources General Manager, Human Resources Executive Leadership Team Head of Faculties Faculty Managers

Provide opportunities to engage our staff in reconciliation (eg staff to be granted Review July 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor volunteer leave to engage in community partnerships within Aboriginal and July 2022 Support: General Manager, Human Resources Torres Strait Islander organisations).

Communicate to our members and the general public our commitment Review July 2021, Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications to reconciliation. July 2022 Support: National Manager, Policy & Advocacy Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health  RACGP’s Board of Directors

Explore opportunities to positively influence our members to undertake their Review July 2021, Lead: Head, Events and Experience own reconciliation actions. July 2022

Via Reconciliation Australia, develop networking opportunities with like-minded Review July 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor organisations to advance reconciliation. July 2022 Support: General Counsel

28 29 Focus area: Strengths and resilience

Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility

Increase understanding, Evaluate and review cultural awareness training within the RACGP. March 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Respect value and recognition of Support: Senior RAP Advisor Aboriginal and Torres Strait 5 Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights Consult local Traditional Owners and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander March 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Our goal is to promote and celebrate through cultural learning advisors on the development and implementation of a cultural learning strategy. Support: Senior RAP Advisor the richness of Aboriginal and Learning and Development Lead Torres Strait Islander cultures, Develop cultural awareness education and cultural safety training within March 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources the RACGP. Support: Senior RAP Advisor values and histories in a manner Learning and Development Lead that respectfully connects our staff Deploy cultural awareness education and cultural safety training within July 2022 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources and membership with Aboriginal the RACGP. Support: Senior RAP Advisor and Torres Strait Islander Learning and Development Lead communities. Aboriginal and Evaluate and review cultural awareness education and cultural safety training June 2022 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources within the RACGP. Support: Senior RAP Advisor Torres Strait Islander peoples and Learning and Development Lead other non-Indigenous people, In each office, access cultural learning activities in collaboration with local December 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources doctors and non-doctors can all Traditional Owners and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors. Support: Head of Faculties work together with the same goal, Senior RAP Advisor Learning and Development Lead respect each other and do Provide opportunities for all staff to participate in formal Review July 2021, Lead: General Manager, Human Resources good work. and structured cultural learning. July 2022 Support: Senior RAP Advisor Learning and Development Lead

The RACGP believes it is important to respect Develop, implement and communicate a cultural learning strategy for staff. July 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources and understand how colonialism has impacted Support: Senior RAP Advisor Learning and Development Lead the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and continues to have impact today. Review and continue to build on the cultural awareness education and June 2022 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources cultural safety training program as part of our continuing professional Support: Senior RAP Advisor We will respect and acknowledge cultural and development, with a focus not only on Aboriginal but also Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures. General Counsel significant days and mark these to help our staff Learning and Development Lead and members understand how the past is still having effect today. Dr Hung The Nguyen and Ada Parry. Dr Hung received an award for his 10 years service to the Faculty in February 2020. 30 Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 31 Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility

All staff, Board members and Executive Leadership Team to participate in online June 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Build understanding of As a health-based organisation, ensure each year we mark the Close the Gap March 2021, March Lead: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal Aboriginal and Torres Strait campaign with appropriate event/s that promote the message that there is no 2022 and Torres Strait Islander Health cultural awareness training, beginning with when staff join the organisation. Support: Senior RAP Advisor Islander health gaps room for racism in healthcare. Support: Head of Faculties Learning and Development Lead 8 Support the state and territory faculties to hold Close the Gap events. March 2021, March Lead: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal Demonstrate respect to Increase staff understanding of the purpose and significance behind cultural December 2020 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor 2022 and Torres Strait Islander Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait protocols, including Acknowledgement of Country and . Support: CEO Support: Head of Faculties Islander peoples by observing Review July 2021, 6 Executive Leadership Team cultural protocols July 2022 Build respect with staff Consult a Cultural Narrative Architectural Design Specialist, Greenaway June 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor and across membership for Architects (Jefa Greenaway), to incorporate First Nations design principles into Support: Facilities Manager Encourage staff to start all meetings with an Acknowledgement of Country. December 2020 Lead: CEO Aboriginal and Torres Strait the refurbishment of the National Office. 9 Islander cultures and histories General Manager, Finance Support: Executive Leadership Team

Show a public commitment to the RAP through our front window decal artwork. October 2020 Lead: Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing Invite a local Traditional Owner or Custodian to provide a Welcome to Country Review July 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Artworks displayed in offices should reflect the Traditional Owners of the land & Communications or other appropriate cultural protocols at significant events each year. July 2022 Support: RAP Working Group where the building stands. RAP Advisory Council Negotiate visual representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people August 2021 Lead: Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing in imagery used across the RACGP (not just content related to Aboriginal and & Communications Develop, implement and communicate a cultural protocol document, including December 2020, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Torres Strait Islander health). Support: National Manager, Media & Communications protocols for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country. December 2021 Support: RAP Working Group Senior RAP Advisor

Review wording of the email auto-signature text to include appropriate statement October 2020 Lead: Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing Ensure images and information about the National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres August 2021 Lead: Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing regarding respect for Country, and incorporate that same statement into our & Communications Strait Islander Health are permanently featured on the RACGP home page. & Communications eDM template.

Highlight and build awareness of the RACGP’s ceremonial Fellowship gowns and November 2020 Lead: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal Build respect for Aboriginal and All staff to participate in an RACGP-organised internal NAIDOC Week event. November 2020, Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications sashes (available only to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellows). and Torres Strait Islander Health Torres Strait Islander cultures first week in July 2021 Support: Senior RAP Advisor and histories by celebrating and July 2022 Support: Manager, Assessment Development 7 RACGP-led Training Coordinator NAIDOC Week Head, Events & Experience Review Human Resources policies and procedures to identify and remove any November 2020, Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Head of Faculties barriers that may exist to staff participating in NAIDOC Week. first week in July 2021 Support: CEO and July 2022 Executive Leadership Team Promote days and dates of Develop and share a calendar of external events and dates of significance January 2021, Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications 10 cultural significance to staff and members. January 2022 Encourage leaders to lead by example in participating in NAIDOC Week. November 2020, Lead: General Counsel Engage members in cultural Conduct cultural awareness communication activities within December 2021 Lead: Head, Events & Experience first week in July 2021 awareness and safety training member-based events. and July 2022 Support: National Manager, Media & Communications 11 RACGP-led Training Coordinator Promote and encourage all staff and members to participate in external November 2020, first Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications Head of Faculties NAIDOC events. week in July 2021 and July 2022 Facilitate experts to run workshops for members at large events, such as the December 2021 Lead: Head, Events & Experience annual national conference, that help create culturally safe work environments. RAP Working Group to participate in an external NAIDOC Week event. November 2020, first Lead: Head of Events and Experience; week in July 2021 and National Manager Use newsGP, the RACGP’s news hub, to communicate at least six articles on December 2021 Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications July 2022 Support: Senior RAP Advisor raising awareness of unconscious bias and culturally safe healthcare. Support: National Manager, Policy & Advocacy RAP Working Group Senior RAP Advisor

32 33 Focus area: Procurement and Human Resources Opportunities Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility Improve employment outcomes Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to consult on our November 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources by increasing Aboriginal recruitment, retention and professional development strategy. 12 and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and Our goal is to ensure that Aboriginal professional development and Torres Strait Islander peoples Develop and communicate best practice protocol for recruitment, position November 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources and businesses have opportunities descriptions and processes to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for Aboriginal equal to those of other Australians. and/or Torres Strait Islander people. Advertise job vacancies to effectively reach Aboriginal and Review July 2021, Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. July 2022

Strait Islander peoples, organisations and Review Human Resources and recruitment procedures and policies to remove November 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources communities are important to our organisation barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in our workplace. Support: General Counsel and its core business activities – we will evaluate our employment, procurement, professional Identify opportunities to have specific Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander November 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources development and retention. positions at state/territory offices. Support: Head of Faculties

Identify new advertising channels likely to appeal to Aboriginal and Torres Strait November 2020 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources Islander job seekers. Support: Head of Faculties

Develop an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and June 2022 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources professional development strategy.

Increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are June 2022 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources directly employed by the RACGP.

Support the work of the National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander January 2021 Lead: RACGP-led Training Coordinator Health in developing a Pathway Support Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Support: Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal Islander medical students/GP trainees. and Torres Strait Islander Health

The Djirri Djirri dancers, a Wurundjeri female dance group. 34 Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 35 Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility

Increase Aboriginal and Torres Develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander October 2020 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor Strait Islander supplier diversity procurement strategy. Support: General Counsel 13 to support improved economic and social outcomes Maintain and renew Supply Nation membership. December 2020, Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor December 2021 Support: General Counsel

Ensure a whole-of-business approach to using the Supply Nation directory December 2020 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor for goods and services. Support: General Counsel Senior RAP Advisor

Maintain a list of eligible suppliers sourced through Supply Nation and increase December 2020 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor the amount that the RACGP invests in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander certified and registered businesses.

Highlight the benefits of procuring goods and services from Aboriginal and October 2020 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor Torres Strait Islander certified and registered businesses to RACGP staff to Support: National Manager, Media & Communications encourage staff to diversify their supplier base. Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing & Communications Senior RAP Advisor National Manager, Policy & Advocacy, Manager, Assessment Development RACGP-led Training Coordinator

Review and update procurement practices to identify potential December 2021 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor barriers to procuring goods and services from Aboriginal Support: General Counsel and Torres Strait Islander businesses.

Identify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander certified or registered businesses December 2022 Lead: Head, Events & Experience to create merchandise for either staff, partners and/or members by 2022. Support: Senior Financial Planning and Analysis Manager, Finance General Counsel Marketing Coordinator, Strategic Marketing & Communications

Develop long-term commercial relationships with Aboriginal and/or June 2021 Lead: Senior Procurement Advisor Torres Strait Islander certified and registered businesses.

Build partnerships that In partnership with organisations such as Career Trackers and the June 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor create career opportunities GO Foundation, create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support: General Counsel in healthcare students to undertake internship/work experience with the RACGP, 14 National Manager, Policy & Advocacy and encourage careers in healthcare and ultimately create future employment opportunities. General Manager, Policy, Practice & Innovation Manager, National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Manager, Foundation RACGP-led Training Coordinator Professor Peter O’Mara – Chair of the National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health. 36 Photo by Michael Jalaru Torres. 37 Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility

Establish and maintain an effective Maintain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation October 2020, June 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor RAP Working Group to drive on the RAP Working Group. June 2022 15 governance of the RAP Establish and apply a Terms of Reference for the RAP Working Group. Review June 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor June 2022 Meet at least four times per year to drive and monitor RAP implementation. October 2020, June 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor June 2022 Support: RAP Working Group

Provide appropriate support for Define resource needs for RAP implementation. March 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Governance effective implementation of RAP March 2022 16 commitments Engage our senior leaders and other staff in the delivery of RAP commitments. Review June 2021, Lead: Executive Leadership Team June 2022 Members of RAP Working Group Support: Senior RAP Advisor Define and maintain appropriate systems to track, measure and report on RAP Review June 2021, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor commitments. June 2022

Consider the impacts of new RACGP position statements on Aboriginal and Review June 2021, Lead: General Manager, Policy, Torres Strait Islander peoples and consult the National Faculty of Aboriginal and June 2022 Practice & Innovation Torres Strait Islander Health on their appropriateness. Support: General Counsel Appoint and maintain an internal ‘RAP Champion’ from senior management. October 2020, Lead: Company Secretary October 2020 Support: Senior RAP Advisor

Build accountability and transparency Complete and submit the annual RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to 30 September 2020, Lead: Senior RAP Advisor through reporting RAP achievements, Reconciliation Australia. 2021, 2022 17 challenges and learnings both internally and externally Regularly report RAP progress to all staff and senior leaders and to the Board. December, March, Lead: Executive Leadership Team and Members June of 2020, 2021 of RAP Working Group and 2022 Support: Senior RAP Advisor Company Secretary Publicly report our RAP achievements, challenges and learnings via social July 2021, July 2022 Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications media, a formalised report or a media release. Ensure RAP achievements, Support: Senior RAP Advisor challenges and learnings are publicly available on the RACGP website. Provide regular updates from our President to members on the progress October 2020 Lead: National Manager, Media & Communications and achievements of the RAP.

Participate in Reconciliation Australia’s biennial Workplace RAP Barometer. April 2022 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor Support: General Counsel

Include questions within the RACGP organisational culture survey that can January 2021 Lead: General Manager, Human Resources capture staff feedback about change in opinion in relation to our RAP activities.

Continue our reconciliation journey by Register via Reconciliation Australia’s website to begin developing December 2021 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor developing our next RAP our next RAP.

18 Establish and maintain an effective Create and maintain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation October 2020 Lead: Senior RAP Advisor RAP Aboriginal and Torres Strait on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee. Islander Advisory Committee to drive 19 governance of the RAP Ada Parry and Tom Mylne at the RAP Advisory Committee 38 meeting, 23 January 2020. 39 Contact details Senior Reconciliation Action Plan Advisor Tel: 03 8699 0594 Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer The information set out in this publication is current at the date of first publication and is intended for use as a guide of a general nature only and may or may not be relevant to particular patients or circumstances. The RACGP and its employees and agents have no liability (including for negligence) to any users of the information contained in this publication. © The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners 2020 This resource is provided under licence by the RACGP. Full terms are available at www.racgp.org.au/usage/licence. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands and seas on which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders, past, present and future.

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