What is a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)?

    A RAP is a strategic document that supports an organisation’s business plan. It includes practical actions that will drive an organisation’s contribution to reconciliation both internally and in the communities in which it operates.

    The RAP Program contributes to advancing reconciliation by supporting organisations to develop respectful relationships and create meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    What is Reconciliation Australia and how is it involved?

    Reconciliation Australia is an independent, not-for-profit organisation whose purpose is to inspire and enable all Australians to contribute to the reconciliation of the nation. Their RAP Framework, in place since 2006, was established to give organisations a structured approach to advance their commitment to reconciliation, both within the organisation and in their local community. RAPs that are endorsed by Reconciliation Australia must comply with the Framework and meets its standards.

    The City has sought guidance and advice from Reconciliation Australia on the most appropriate approach, and will seek endorsement from Reconciliation Australia once the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan is complete. Reconciliation Australia has provided feedback during the development of the draft RAP.

    Visit the Reconciliation Australia website.

    What is an Innovate RAP?

    There are four different types of RAP that an organisation can develop, and each type is designed to suit an organisation at different stages of their reconciliation journey.

    The four RAP types (Reflect, Innovate, Stretch, Elevate) set out the minimum elements required from an organisation to build strong relationships, respect and opportunities within an organisation and community.

    An Innovate RAP focuses on implementing reconciliation initiatives, as well as developing and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, engaging staff and stakeholders in reconciliation, and developing and piloting innovative strategies to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    You can read more about the four levels here on the Reconciliation Australia website.

    Why have we developed a RAP at the Innovate level?

    Although this is will be the City’s first RAP, the City had already developed an Aboriginal Engagement Strategy in 2013 and the majority of the actions in it had been completed, Reconciliation Australia determined that the City should develop a plan at the second level, which is Innovate.

    What is the Aboriginal Reference Group (ARG)?

    The ARG is a formal City reference group and is made up of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal local residents, business representatives, service providers and two elected members with a commitment to Aboriginal engagement and reconciliation. Each member has a two year term in line with the Council election cycle.

    The ARG contributes to the advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the City of South Perth through strong communications, respectful relationships, and cultural awareness-raising (including celebrations and events).

    Find out more about the ARG here.

    What are the next steps?

    Once the public comment period has closed, all feedback will be analysed and the draft RAP revised as appropriate. The City will then seek feedback from Reconciliation Australia on the updated draft RAP and make any other necessary changes. The finalised RAP will then go to Council for endorsement to be presented to Reconciliation Australia for formal endorsement.

    How can I get involved and provide my feedback?

    You can give us your feedback a number of ways:

    • Register or sign in. Before you can participate, you will need to create a username and password for Your Say South Perth. If you have already registered, you can sign in here. Registration only takes a moment and it will make it easier for you to stay in the loop and get involved in future projects.
    • Ask us a question online about the draft RAP.
    • Complete the online feedback form. Hard copy feedback forms are available at the Civic Centre and South Perth and Manning libraries.
    • Drop in and visit us on Wednesday 24 June, anytime between 2.30 and 4.30pm, at the corner of Angelo and Anstey streets, South Perth or Saturday 27 June, anytime between 11am and 1pm, outside Coles, Waterford Plaza
    • Contact the City on 9474 0777 or email enquiries@southperth.wa.gov.au to speak to the project team.

    Feedback closed at 4pm, Monday 6 July 2020.

    Do I need to register before I can participate?

    Yes, in order to participate in the online activities, you must register on Your Say South Perth and create a username and password. Registration only takes a moment, and it will make participating in future projects and online engagement easier in the future.

    If you have already registered, you can sign in here.

    How can I ask questions about the project?

    • Ask us a question online
    • Drop in and visit us on Wednesday 24 June, anytime between 2.30 and 4.30pm, at the corner of Angelo and Anstey streets, South Perth, or Saturday 27 June, anytime between 11am and 1pm, outside Coles at Waterford Plaza. City staff will be available to discuss the draft plan and answer any questions you might have
    • Contact the City on 9474 0777 and ask to speak to someone about the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, or email enquiries@southperth.wa.gov.au

    I’d prefer not to complete the survey online. How else can I complete the survey?

    No problem. Hard copy surveys are available from the City's Civic Centre and South Perth and Manning libraries. Simply return your completed survey to the Civic Centre or libraries by 4pm, Monday 6 July 2020.