Here’s a wRAP- up of our highlights to date
In amongst the busiest time for recruitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees we have worked progressively on a number of interesting activities related to our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
This page provides a snapshot of some of the key projects that we have completed and highlights activities that are currently underway.
RELATIONSHIPS
Action 1. Working group to actively monitor the RAP
The RAP was developed with input from the internal working group made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and non-Aboriginal staff. The working group continues to provide oversight of the implementation of the RAP through quarterly meetings.
RAP activities and outcomes have also been captured in AFL SportsReady’s operational plan so are reported against by the Senior Management team.
Action 2. Provide opportunities for all staff to foster strong relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
Targets:
- Develop a National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Framework
- Incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement activities within each state plan
- Invite Community Stake to each state’s annual Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Gathering
A National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Framework was developed in June to provide direction on AFL SportsReady’s approach to develop, enhance and maintain strong and positive ongoing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
A variety of engagement activities are already being undertaken across the country with local communities. The delivery of these activities is now embedded within each state based plan as a core element of their state planning and delivery.
Gatherings have been held in Queensland and Western Australia, with planning underway in Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales.
Action 5. Contribute to an informed Australian public through greater promotion of success stories, partnerships and events with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through media forums
An increased number of stories have been submitted and featured in Aboriginal media, local media and AFL SportsReady’s website and Facebook page since the RAP launch.
RESPECT
Action 1. All AFL SportsReady staff to participate in our internal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Awareness Training program to build cultural understanding.
Target:
- Further build on our existing cultural awareness training delivery and develop a cultural awareness training strategy for AFL SportsReady staff participation.
A draft Strategy for 2016 has been developed which outlines how AFL SportsReady will build on internal cultural awareness, through:
- Ensuring that all staff have participated in cultural awareness training including a combination of AFL SportsReady’s internal program, sessions delivered in house at our National Conferences, and other external training undertaken with previous employers
- Localised cultural forums and experiences in each state, further complementing formal cultural awareness training. This could include internal workshops, regular guest speakers or cultural activities
- Providing non-Aboriginal staff the opportunity to undertake a short work experience opportunity with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation.
Action 3. Show respect and acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and peoples through all local offices.
Target:
- All staff email signature blocks to acknowledge Traditional Owners of place (this action has been completed).
OPPORTUNITIES
Action 1. Identify and increase opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to supply their goods and services to AFL SportsReady
Target:
- Build a database of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander key suppliers in each state (catering, printing, merchandise development, graphic design, events, facilitation)
A national database has been developed, identifying a large number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses in each state. These businesses supply printing, graphic design, consulting services, conference facilitation, catering and merchandise. Next steps will be working with each state to promote and utilise these services, with an aim to use a minimum of three of these businesses annually.
DATE: Tuesday 24th November, 2015
IMAGE: Ralph White, AFL SportsReady's Community Engagement Coordinator, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Programs at the launch of our RAP in May 2015.
