Wagga Wagga City Council - Reconciliation Action Plan 2019-21

Innovate

Reconciliation Action Plan JULY 2019 – JUNE 2021

Image: Mervyn Bishop

REMEMBERING COUNCILLOR GILCHRIST (1999 - 2004) We would like to acknowledge Aunty Yvonne Gilchrist (now deceased), a highly regarded and well-known Wiradjuri Elder, who served as a Councillor for Wagga Wagga City Council, from 1999 to 2004.

Aunty Yvonne Gilchrist, affectionately known to many as ‘Aunty Vonnie’ had a passion for lifelong learning, education and seized every opportunity that became available. She recalled that working at Mount Austin High School as an Aboriginal Education Assistant were amongst her happiest times, as she loved being with the children and helping when need occurred. Her contribution to the school has been recognised with

the naming of the Yvonne Gilchrist resource room at Mt Austin High.

The Sorry Bus tour, forming the Aboriginal Consultative Committee, connecting council to the Reconciliation process and moving to secure a local Aboriginal Youth and Community Development Position in Council were all huge achievements within a larger, national framework.

Aunty Vonnie is seen by many as a pioneer in the journey of reconciliation for Wagga Wagga.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this document contains images, and names of people who have passed away.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgement of Country

4

Introduction 18

Messages from local Wiradjuri Elders

6

Our Vision for Reconciliation

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Message from the Mayor

8

Our RAP Working Group

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Our Reconciliation Journey

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Our Reconciliation Action Plan

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Message from Reconciliation Australia

10

Placement of the Reconciliation Action Plan within the sustainable planning framework

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Our Vision and Guiding Principles

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Respect 33

About Wagga Wagga

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Opportunities 40

Our Business

16

Our Community Demographics

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Relationships 30

Governance, tracking progress and reporting

47

Significant dates and events for our community

50

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this document may contain images and names of people who have passed away.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY FUSION16 Holy Trinity Primary Dulbinya dance group Image: Heidrun Lohr

Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this land, the Wiradjuri people, and pays respect to Elders, both past and present.

Wagga Wagga City Council has a long history and association with local First Nations Peoples communities within the Local Government Area (LGA).

Wagga Wagga City Council values the diversity of the local community and supports reconciliation by working consistently in partnership with the local Wiradjuri and First Nations community, ensuring the process is based on respect, trust and a spirit of openness.

Sorry Day 2014 Flag raising ceremony with Aunty Isabel Reid, Aunty Pat Simpson and Kooringal High School student Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

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MESSAGES FROM LOCAL WIRADJURI ELDERS

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Aunty Isabel Reid

Uncle James Ingram

“Reconciliation is about putting aside differences of opinion, whether they are right or wrong, and coming together. Everyone is not the same and they all have choices. Before any decisions are made regarding Aboriginal culture, Elders need to be informed, and although this has happened in some cases it needs to happen more frequently. Also, we need to listen to young people regarding decision making. Aboriginal people, young and old, should be on all committees. On days like Australia Day, we should be acknowledging what has happened in our past so we can move forward together. We also need representation of Aboriginal people as leaders in our Council and on the Council itself who can provide guidance around culture, community and heritage.

“Reconciliation to me, means accepting the fact we cannot do it alone and we need all the help we can get to save our children and their descendants. My vision for Wagga Wagga is for all people to respect each other and accepting we cannot help everyone, especially those who won`t help themselves. I see Wagga Wagga City Council providing meaningful and structured employment and training outcomes for our people. Caring for Country outcomes prove we can address people’s dependence on drugs and alcohol and reduce the incidence of crime whilst doing something worthwhile for Mother Earth as she has always been there for you and me.”

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Aunty Kath Withers “As a Wiradjuri Elder, I believe there should be a clear acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Peoples of Australia, the original owners and custodians of this land. There also needs to be recognition of Wiradjuri people’s resilience and culture to assist in the growth and development of Wagga. I see reconciliation as a process in which we acknowledge the past, understand the present, and embrace a future based on the co-existence of rights. I would love to see Council assist reconciliation with the establishment of a Cultural Centre, showcasing Wiradjuri culture and artists. I would also like to see the creation of a Reconciliation Committee involving Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people working together to improve local relationships within the Wagga community, including all key business, community and Elders. I would also like to see Council take a leadership role in bringing people together to learn and move forward as one community. These actions would need to be resourced adequately to ensure their ongoing viability and to ensure commitment is more than tokenistic.”

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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Reconciliation Week 2017 “Together as One” by Tyronne Hoerler, with Aunty Isabel Reid and Mayor Greg Conkey. Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

As Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga I would like to acknowledge and thank the Wiradjuri and community Elders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and other community members and Council staff for their valued contributions to our first Wagga Wagga City Council Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). I would also like to thank Reconciliation Australia for their guidance and support in ensuring this plan reflects the intent of RAPs across our country, in government agencies, businesses and other services.

Reconciliation is such an important process and essential when we look back and consider the atrocities of our country’s past. The loss of cultures, families and languages, and the impact of government resettlements and forcible removal policies on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and families has been profound. The results of these policies and actions continue to affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their families today.

We know Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are likely to die twenty years before non-Aboriginal people, are almost twice as likely to commit suicide, are over represented in our criminal justice system and the out of home care system. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people also experience poorer health outcomes and are less likely to be in full time employment.

agreements, and to work alongside our colleagues in State and Federal government to “Close the Gap”.

Wagga Wagga City Council’s RAP clearly demonstrates Council’s commitment to working with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members towards a better, brighter, and stronger future. It outlines how Council will play its part in recognising and valuing Wiradjuri culture and heritage, how we will work to increase employment and business opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and how we will ensure we build relationships based on respect and transparency with our community.

It is my hope that through this RAP we will strengthen our City where all community members value and respect our First Nations Peoples and our local Wiradjuri culture and heritage. The development of this RAP is a small step in addressing the inequities of the past.

As Mayor of this City, I believe that Council has a responsibility to address some of these inequities in line with the Council of Australian Government

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MESSAGE FROM RECONCILIATION AUSTRALIA Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

Reconciliation Australia is delighted to welcome Wagga Wagga City Council to the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program by formally endorsing its inaugural Innovate RAP. As a member of the RAP community, Wagga Wagga City Council joins over 1,000 dedicated corporate, government, and not-for-profit organisations that have formally committed to reconciliation through the RAP program since its inception in 2006. RAP organisations across Australia are turning good intentions into positive actions, helping to build higher trust, lower prejudice, and increase pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Reconciliation is no one single issue or agenda.

Based on international research and benchmarking, Reconciliation Australia defines and measures reconciliation through five critical dimensions: race relations; equality and equity, institutional integrity; unity; and historical acceptance. All sections of the community—governments, civil society, the private sector, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—have a role to play to progress these dimensions.

The RAP program provides a framework for organisations to advance reconciliation within their spheres of influence. This Innovate RAP provides Wagga Wagga City Council with the key steps to establish its own unique approach to reconciliation.

Through implementing an Innovate RAP, Wagga

Wagga City Council will develop its approach to driving reconciliation through its business activities, services and programs, and develop mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders.

We wish Wagga Wagga City Council well as it explores and establishes its own unique approach to reconciliation. We encourage Wagga Wagga City Council to embrace this journey with open hearts and minds, to grow from the challenges, and to build on its successes. As the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation reminded the nation in its final report: “Reconciliation is hard work—it’s a long, winding and corrugated road, not a broad, paved highway.

Determination and effort at all levels of government and in all sections of the community will be essential to make reconciliation a reality.”

On behalf of Reconciliation Australia, I commend Wagga Wagga City Council on its first RAP, and look forward to following its ongoing reconciliation journey.

Karen Mundine Chief Executive Officer Reconciliation Australia

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PLACEMENT OF THE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN WITHIN THE SUSTAINABLE PLANNING FRAMEWORK

The Reconciliation Action Plan provides a clear direction to ensure Council is developing a liveable city, which is thriving, connected, innovative and inclusive.

The plan has been written to provide a list of actions council will deliver over the next two years within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area to strengthen reconciliation with the city’s First Nations Peoples.

LEVEL

State and Regional Plans

The development of the RAP has occurred using the principles identified in the Integrated Planning and Reporting Manual for Local Government in NSW and developed with guidance from Reconciliation Australia, the lead body for reconciliation in our Nation. The RAP has also sought to integrate with other Wagga Wagga City Council strategies to ensure the principles of inclusion and connection are embedded in all planning frameworks.

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LEVEL

2

Social

Community Strategic Plan Long term plan that clearly defines what we want as a community.

Council Strategies Providing directions

Economic

Environmental

Civic Leadership

Business Planning Process

Divisional process informing resourcing and delivery

Community Engagement

3

Delivery Program 4 Years

4

Operational Plan 1 Year

LEVEL

This strategy is considered a level two document within the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Framework.

LEVEL

Figure 1.1 NSW Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

Identifies the elected Council’s priorities for their term of office.

Identifies the projects, programs and services to be delivered.

Individual Performance and Development Plan

Monitoring and reporting Figure 1.1

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Resourcing Strategies Internal instruments (how) we deliver:  Long Term Financial Plan  Asset Management Plan  Workforce Plan  Section 94 Developer Contributions

Policies, operating standards, guidelines and procedures  Local Environment Plan (LEP)  Development Control Plan (DCP)

OUR VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES

During the development of the Community Strategic Plan a vision for the city’s future was developed and tested within the community. This vision states: “The community of Wagga is a thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive community on the Murrumbidgee. Rich in opportunity, choice, learning and environment, Wagga is a place where paths cross and people meet.”

Our guiding principles To ensure we achieve our community’s vision in the future, we will embed these four principles across all aspects of work that we do.

THRIVING

INNOVATION

CONNECTED

INCLUSIVE

The Reconciliation Action Plan will consider how we promote the liveability of Wagga Wagga and work together to increase the success and recognition of First Nations community members and Wiradjuri culture.

The Reconciliation Action Plan will consider how we can all feel part of the community, build better relationships through attitudes and behaviours and acknowledgment of Wiradjuri culture and heritage in places and spaces.

The Reconciliation Action Plan will consider how we create meaningful relationships and efficient and effective systems and processes to create best practice in working with and considering our First Nations Peoples.

The Reconciliation Action Plan will consider how we are inclusive in all aspects of our work spaces, from work culture and practices to employment, design and planning.

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ABOUT WAGGA WAGGA

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Wagga Wagga local government area is located on traditional Wiradjuri Country in the Riverina region of southern New South Wales. The name of the City was derived from the language of the Wiradjuri people, the largest Aboriginal Nation in New South Wales. The word Wagga Wagga comes from the Wiradjuri word Waga meaning a place to dance. Waga Waga, meaning a place of dance, place of celebration. The repetition of a word expresses plural or emphasis, emphasis meaning special importance. Thus, Wagga Wagga could mean a place of many celebrations or a place of many dances.

The name Wiradjuri means, ‘people of the three rivers’ and traditionally these rivers (Lachlan, Murrumbidgee and Macquarie) were the primary source of food for the Wiradjuri people.

Wagga Wagga continues to be the traditional home of many Wiradjuri people. After years of Wagga being a government resettlement zone for Aboriginal people, it is now also home to First Nations Peoples from many surrounding Nations.

Wagga Wagga is also an increasingly culturally diverse local government area, and is a recognised Refugee Welcome zone. It is a youthful and vibrant community, with a higher than average proportion of persons in the 12-24 age group.

Tweed Heads

Waaigali

Karenpgapa

Muruwari Gunu

Bandjigali

Bundjalung

Barranbinya

Yaegl

Malyangaba

Kamilaroi

Barundji Wandjiwalgu

Gumbainggir

Wailwan

Wiljali

Nganyaywana

Wongaibon

Broken Hill

Kempsey Port Macquarie

Biripi

Geawegal Barindji

Meru

Worimi

Wonnaru Yitha Yitha

Latje Latje Mildura

Kureinji

Coffs Harbour

Dainggatti

Tamworth

Danggali Barkindji

Yamba

Ngarabal

Dadi Dadi

Darkinjung Orange Bathurst

Madi Madi Nari Nari

Newcastle

Awabakal

Central Coast

Kuring-gai Dharug

Sydney Eora

Gundungurra

Wemba Wemba Baraba Baraba

Dubbo

Wiradjuri

Wagga Wagga

Ngunawal

Wollongong

Tharawal

Yorta Yorta Canberra Yuin

Ngarigo

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OUR BUSINESS

Wagga Wagga is increasingly recognised by other levels of Government and the broader community as a regional capital, playing a significant role in supporting the surrounding towns and villages within the wider Riverina. The 2018 Wagga Wagga Economic Snapshot identified Wagga Wagga as the largest retail, commercial, administrative and population centre in the Riverina region. It additionally identified that the city provides shopping services to a catchment of over 190,000 people. Approximately $1.3M people visit annually.

and Visitor Information Centre) Regional Development Offices in our Seniors Community Centre, Parks Depot, Cemeteries, Fernleigh Road depot, the Oasis Aquatic Centre, Gregadoo Waste Management Facility and

The city exhibits strong economic and population growth, evidenced by consistently falling unemployment rates, which are below the state and national averages. Wagga Wagga is highly accessible through its road, rail and air connections to Australia’s major cities and sea ports. Significant opportunity exists for business to either establish or expand and capitalise on the city’s favourable economic environment and location as a contemporary regional city.

Wagga Wagga’s population of Wiradjuri and First Nations Peoples is 5.6% or 3,509 of the population (ABS 2016). Wagga Wagga City Council employs approximately 435 permanent employees with 14 of those employees identifying as First Nations Peoples, equating to approximately 3.2% of total staff.

Council staff are located across a number of sites including sites within the Civic Centre Precinct, (Administration, Library, Civic Theatre, Gallery, Museum

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INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

other landfill sites, the Livestock Marketing Centre, Riverina Regional library, Glenfield Road Animal Shelter, a Weed Spraying Depot and Wagga Airport.

Brisbane Darwin

Perth

Sydney

Adelaide Canberra Melbourne

Hobart

OUR COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHICS The population of Wagga Wagga City in 2016 was

62,385 of all children in Out of Home Care (OOHC) in Australia are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander

over

35%

People aged 0 – 24 years old

5.6%

OR 3509 OF THE POPULATION ARE ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES

35.2 %

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40

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population 60

80

Aboriginal people in NSW were 11.3 times more likely than non-Aboriginal people to be imprisoned of Aboriginal 21.7% adults in NSW reported having diabetes compared to 9.7% in all NSW Aboriginal offenders made up 27.9% of offences police proceeded against in Wagga Wagga LGA (across 12 crime categories)

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Wagga Wagga City Council employs approximately 435 permanent employees

* *

43.7% of the general population have completed year 12 or equivalent, compared to 30% of Wagga Wagga’s Aboriginal population

general population

58.4% 0

Aboriginal young people are detained at 15 times the rate of non-Aboriginal young people in NSW

Suicide rates for Aboriginal youth are nearly double that of non-Aboriginal 15-24 yr olds 14 of those employees identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, equating to approximately 3.2% of total staff (2018)

*

Census of Population and Housing 2016. Compiled and presented by .id , the population experts. Aboriginal Health Profile, Murrumbidgee LHD 2017, Public Health, Murrumbidgee LHD. NSW Council of Social Services, Investing in Communities Conference NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research

*

The Aboriginal population consistently reported higher levels of psychological distress in adults

(approx. 20%) compared to the non-Aboriginal population (11%)

The highest % of Aboriginal people are in the suburbs of

ASHMONT, TOLLAND, MOUNT AUSTIN + KOORINGAL

Aboriginal children are twice as likely to be developmentally vulnerable in their first year at school as non-Aboriginal children are

16.7% of the general population have a Bachelor degree or higher compared to 6.3% of Wagga Wagga’s Aboriginal population

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INTRODUCTION

Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Cultural Tour led by Uncle James Ingram Image: Jack of Hearts Studio

Reconciliation is one of the most important journeys we need to undertake for Wagga Wagga. It is a cornerstone to aid healing and to close the gap of inequity for the city’s First Nations Peoples. If we do this well we can not only effect change together for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community but for our community as a whole.

Janice Summerhayes, Director Community

Purpose of this Document The purpose of this document is to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), after extensive consultation between First Nations Peoples in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area and Wagga Wagga City Council staff, to be delivered by the Wagga Wagga City Council towards strengthening reconciliation.

Our Process Wagga Wagga City Council began the process of developing a Reconciliation Action Plan in 2016. At this point it was determined Council’s RAP should be an “Innovate” RAP. Innovate RAP’s focus on outlining clear actions that work towards achieving Council’s vision for reconciliation and ensure goals help Council to gain a deeper understanding of its sphere of influence, and establish the best approach to advance reconciliation.

This level was deemed most suitable, as although many relationships and projects had been already established, there was still a long way to go to build a genuine platform of trust and partnership. It was also determined through an Innovate RAP, Council could focus on strengthening relationships with First

Nations Peoples and engaging staff and stakeholders in reconciliation.

Throughout this time, Council has worked closely with Reconciliation Australia to ensure this RAP is consistent with best practice and has a clear framework to contribute to reconciliation by: • building and encouraging relationships between the local Wiradjuri community and other First Nations Peoples, communities, organisations, and the broader Australian community; • fostering and embedding respect for the world’s longest surviving cultures and communities; and • developing opportunities within council to improve socio-economic outcomes for First Nations Peoples and communities1.

Exerts above have been adapted from the Reconciliation Australia website https://www.reconciliation.org.au/reconciliation-actionplans/#ra-innovate-rap

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OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATION Apology Day 2018 Henschke Primary school with Aunty Colleen Hughes and Aunty Mary Atkinson Image: Jack of Hearts Studio

A connected community that thrives on positive relationships and cultural diversity, and provides equitable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members RAP Working Group 2017 Ngiyanggarang: Beginning a conversation in the morning to awaken others exhibition at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2018 Smoking ceremony by Pete Ingram Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

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OUR RAP WORKING GROUP The following community members and staff have led and guided Council in the development of the Wagga Wagga City Council Reconciliation Action Plan.

NB: please note the RWG has included other members in the initial consultation and whilst they are not mentioned in the existing RWG, Council acknowledges their contribution and support.

Adriaan Stander, Strategic Planning Coordinator

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Arthur Thorpe, Plant Operator

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Aunty Cheryl Penrith, Wiradjuri Elder

Mark Saddler, Wiradjuri Community Member

Aunty Fay Moseley, Wiradjuri Elder

Ashleigh Pengelly, Aboriginal Youth and Community Development Officer (2018)

Ben Creighton, Strategic Asset Planner

Brett Koschel, Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Caroline Angel, Director, Commercial Services RAP Champion

Carly Hood, Environmental Coordinator

Carolyn Rodney Manager Finance

David Butterfield, Management Procurement Services

Fiona Piltz, Manager People and Culture

Janice Summerhayes, Director, Community Services

Lisa Saffery, Social Planning Coordinator

Madeleine Scully, Manager Community Services

Mark Gardiner, Manager Environment and City Compliance

Mark Hewson, Supervisor Contract Services

Scott Gray, Manager Executive Support

Therese Reeckman, People and Culture Officer

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OUR RECONCILIATION JOURNEY Kangaroo skin presentation to the Wagga Wagga City Library 2017 Claire Campbell (Manager Library) Jocelyn Williams (community member), Janice Summerhayes (Director Community) Sam Kirby (Aboriginal Youth and Community Development Officer). Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

Wagga Wagga City Council has a long history and association with the local First Nations Peoples communities within the LGA. In 2003, Council launched the City of Wagga Wagga’s Indigenous Strategy. This strategy underpinned how Council would work with the First Nations Peoples and ensure meaningful consultation for the development of relevant planning, policy documents and activities.

For many years, Council has run and supported events and programs to celebrate culture and heritage, including significant events such as the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week, National Reconciliation Week, Sorry Day and Apology Day. Council has also encouraged First Nations staff to celebrate NAIDOC Week through the provision of an additional day of allocated leave during NAIDOC Week.

In 2016, Council decided to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This RAP was to further establish positive relationships between local government and First Nations communities, reflecting a genuine commitment to reconciliation through projects deemed important to the community and by creating opportunities in leadership and employment.

Furthermore, a RAP would provide a commitment to First Nations community members, through a publically available action plan.

In 2016 a RAP Working Group (RWG) formed, following consultation with Reconciliation Australia. The RWG began drafting the plan. Throughout 2016 and 2017,

various stakeholders were engaged to ensure their thoughts were captured. This included discussions with Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Medical Service, Charles Sturt University and other local Elders and community members through two formal community consultations, meetings and community conversations.

In November 2017, the draft RAP was presented at two open community consultations, where community members provided instrumental feedback to Council in relation to the draft plan.

In 2017, Council reviewed and published Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols – A guide for Councillors and Council staff. The protocols were finalised following extensive consultation with local Wiradjuri Elders and First Nation community members and continue to provide clear guidance to Council on how to ensure culturally appropriate practices that demonstrates knowledge and respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land and country.

Our present commitments On an annual basis Council continues to deliver many events, services, exhibitions, public programs and projects in partnership with our First Nations Peoples.

Some recent examples of projects include: Together As One Reconciliation Week Project 2017 In 2017, an artwork titled ‘Together as One’ by a young local Wangkumara artist, Tyronne Hoerler, responding to the themes of National Reconciliation Week, was

commissioned by the Wagga Wagga City Council.

The temporary artwork, unveiled in May 2017 on the entrance steps of the Wagga Wagga City Council building was in place for six months.

Giilanggalang (many stories) 2016 - ongoing During NAIDOC Week, giilanggalang returned to Wagga Wagga City Library, following its NSW tour.

Featuring the work of more than twenty artists working on a miniature scale, this unique display was viewed in the downstairs Youth Area. Community members came and engaged with these varied representations of contemporary First Nations arts practice in our region.

This exhibition was supported by the NSW Government through the Aboriginal Regional Arts Fund and is a partnership between Eastern Riverina Arts and Riverina Regional Library.

The Home Project 2015 - ongoing This innovative program which has The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education working in partnership with the Art Gallery of NSW and Wagga Wagga Art Gallery has been running over four years. Each year, the program runs across three school terms, enabling students to learn about Wiradjuri artists and their work, while also exploring Wiradjuri language, culture and heritage, through their own artmaking and personal ideas of what home means. The program culminates in an exhibition of work from students and teachers who have participated.

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Cultural Burn Project 2017 - 2018 In April 2017, in partnership with NSW Local Land Services, Council completed a Cultural Burn Project.

The project included training for eight First Nations Peoples in bush fire behaviour, use of firefighting equipment and knowledge to conduct cultural burns.

The participants completed fieldwork, surveyed vegetation and learnt the practice of identifying native plants. The skills and knowledge gathered from the training culminated in two cultural burns at the Silvalite Reserve and another adjacent to Bomen Axe Quarry.

The program forms part of a continuing strategy and Council will implement further cultural burns as opportunities arise.

Join the Dots: Professional Development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Creatives – 2015 - 2017 In 2015, Council joined with local First Nations artists to deliver a professional development program for creatives to develop their hobby into a small business. The program provided advice from industry experts on professional liability, marketing, promotion, product development, economic opportunities and more. The ongoing success of this three-year program continues to be evident with many of the participants going from strength to strength. The connections formed through the program continue to evolve to suit the ever-

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changing market for First Nations Peoples economic development opportunities.

Management Plan 2016 - ongoing Following the gazetting of a number of significant Aboriginal Places in the Wagga Wagga local government area by NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, a management plan for all sites was developed in partnership with stakeholders.

Stakeholders included Wagga Wagga Aboriginal Land Council, Waagan Waagan Wiradjuri Men’s Group, Department of Industry – Lands, Riverina Local Land Services and Office of Environment and Heritage and included consultation with local Wiradjuri Elders.

Council is responsible for the management of four of the significant Aboriginal Places - Wollundry Lagoon & Tony Ireland Park, Wiradjuri Reserve & Gobba Beach, Bomen Axe Quarry and Flowerdale Lagoon. The management plan was signed by all stakeholders to ensure an agreed and collaborative approach in place management. The management plan continues to provide the ongoing management strategy that guides Council on how to interact with the sites on a day-today basis to ensure these places are managed in a manner that preserves their significance and promotes First Nations culture.

Marrambidya Wetland 2013 - ongoing The Marrambidya Wetland is a stunning 20-hectare reserve created from disused tertiary treatment ponds

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

alongside the Murrumbidgee River. The project, commenced in 2013 in collaboration with funding partners NSW Local Land Services, Origin Energy and NSW Environmental Trust. Construction of the site was finalised in 2016, and officially opened in June 2016 with a community launch.

The Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Lands Council were key stakeholders in the design of the wetland and provided advice on the cultural significance of wetlands to the Wiradjuri people. They also provided advice on significant plant species and their traditional uses. The Australian Department of the Environment’s Green Army initiative was utilised throughout the development of the site, with the Green Army team supervised by Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Robert Hampton.

The team planted over 22,000 native plants around the ponds and installed a bush tucker garden. Uncle Robert implemented the construction of Gunyas and Bora Rings, creating an area to be utilised for teaching and learning about cultural heritage.

In 2016, in consultation with other local Wiradjuri community members, a Healing Place was constructed. The Healing Place features native plants, a seating area and a hand carved totem pole created by Wiradjuri Elders and donated to the site by the artists and TAFE NSW Riverina Institute.

Sorry Day 2018 Unveiling of the Sorry Day Rock to commemorate the Stolen Generations from Cootamundra Girls and Kinchela Boys home Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

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OUR RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN Walang Wiraduri Yinaa: Strong Wiradjuri Women exhibition at Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2017 Welcome to Country by Aunty Gail Manderson with Mayor Greg Conkey, featuring photograph of Aunty Pat Dacey. Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

Wagga Wagga City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan is a strategic document developed by all areas of the organisation. The Action Plan was developed using feedback collated in the development of the Community Strategic Plan 2020, recommendations made by the RAP working group, discussions with Wiradjuri and other First Nations Elders, community forums, networks and community consultations.

The RAP working group was instrumental in determining which actions should to be taken forward to provide clear deliverables through which council could measure progress. The RAP working group consisted of a range of members including Wiradjuri Elders and Wagga Wagga City Council staff from all areas of the organisation.

The development of a RAP, is deemed by Council as best practice in acknowledging and working towards meaningful reconciliation. Council aims to demonstrate leadership to other local businesses, service providers and other organisations in commencing their own reconciliation plans.

Guya-gu Marraanba Yinaa: One Woman Fish Net exhibition at Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 2018 Aunty Lorraine Tye with Jonathan Jones Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

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RELATIONSHIPS

Wagga Comedy Fest 2018 Dane Simpson and Dane Kennedy Image: Michael Frogley Photography

It is important to Wagga Wagga City Council to continue to develop positive relationships with our local First Nations Peoples community, as this will ensure we work respectfully towards shared goals. Council will continue to build these relationships through trust, mutual respect and the provision of supportive environments.

Action 1. The RAP Working Group (RWG) monitors RAP development, implementation, tracking progress and reporting.

2. Celebrate and participate in National Reconciliation Week (NRW) by providing opportunities to build and maintain relationships between First Nations Peoples and other Australians.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

September 2019

Objective: We have strong leadership

Manager Community Services

b) Meet at least 4 times per year to monitor and report on RAP implementation

September, December 2019 March, June, September, December 2020 March, June 2021

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Manager Community Services

c) RWG oversees the development, endorsement and launch of the RAP

July 2019 June 2020 June 2021

Strategy: Report against actions in strategies and plans

Manager Community Services

d) Ensure First Nations Peoples are represented on the RWG

September 2019, 2020

a) Organise at least one internal event for NRW each year

May 2020, 2021

Objective: We are active community members

Manager Community Services

b) Register our NRW event via Reconciliation Australia’s NRW website

May 2020, 2021

Outcome: We recognise we all have a role to play

Manager Community Services

c) Support external NRW events by assisting with promotional material distribution, locating funding sources etc.

May 2020, 2021

Strategies: Promote opportunities to be involved

Manager Community Services

d) Ensure our RWG participates in a community event to recognise and celebrate NRW

May 2020, 2021

Participate in volunteering programs

Manager Community Services

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Establish a Terms of Reference document for the RWG

Manager Community Services

Provide grant programs and funding opportunities for community groups

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RELATIONSHIPS

Action

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Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

September 2020

Objective: We are informed and involved in decisionmaking

Marketing and Communications Manager

b) Strengthen relationships between Council and key organisations in the areas of health, education and safety, for example; Mount Austin Clontarf Academy and the Girls at the Centre Program at Mount Austin High School

December 2020

Outcome: Everyone in our community feels they have been heard and understood

Manager Community Services

c) Meet with local First Nations organisations, such as Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Corporation, to develop and agree on guiding principles for future engagement including frequency of meetings, partnerships etc.

June 2020

Strategy: Create inclusive and accessible engagement strategies

Manager Community Services

a) Incorporate RAP updates in team meetings/sector updates to ensure shared ownership of RAP deliverables across Council

December 2020

Objective: We have strong leadership

All managers

b) Encourage and support other organisations within Wagga Wagga Local Government Area to develop their own Reconciliation Action Plan

December 2020

Outcome: We have leaders that represent us

Manager Community Services

c) Raise awareness of Naraagunnawali: Reconciliation in schools and Early Learning in schools and early learning services within our organisation’s sphere of influence

December 2019

Strategy: Empower and equip community groups to promote leadership

Manager Community Services

d) Develop and implement a strategy to communicate our RAP to all internal and external stakeholders

December 2019

Marketing and Communications Manager

e) Promote reconciliation through ongoing active engagement with all stakeholders

December 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

Deliverable

Timeline

3. Foster positive relationships between First Nations community members, organisations and the wider community to support outcomes and promotion of reconciliation.

a) Develop and implement a community engagement strategy to better collaborate, support and engage with our First Nations Peoples stakeholders

4. Raise internal and external awareness of Council’s RAP to promote reconciliation.

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

RESPECT

Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Cultural presentation by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Image: Jack of Hearts Studio

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RESPECT Wagga Wagga City Council aims to increase understanding, appreciation, pride and respect of First Nations Peoples cultures in order to create diverse, strong and resilient communities.

Action 5. Engage employees in continuous cultural learning opportunities to increase understanding and appreciation of First Nations Peoples cultures, histories and achievements.

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Ensure 85% of all staff attend Cultural Awareness Training by 2021 including:

January 2021 (all deliverables)

i) Introducing lateral violence and intergenerational trauma elements into Cultural Awareness Training ii) Introducing Cultural Awareness Training into staff induction training iii) Incorporating an overview of Management Plan of Aboriginal Places and Office of Environment and Heritage training modules into Cultural Awareness Training iv) Incorporating Reconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Council Staff into Cultural Awareness Training v) Consulting with local Wiradjuri Elders to ensure the current Cultural Awareness Training program promotes an understanding and respect for local Wiradjuri culture vi) Investigate opportunities for local Wiradjuri community members to develop and deliver Cultural Awareness Training for Council representatives and staff vii) Develop and implement a First Nations cultural awareness training strategy for our staff which defines cultural learning needs of employees in all areas of our business and considers various ways cultural learning can be provided (online, face to face workshops or cultural immersion)

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INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

Objective: City of Wagga Wagga services reflect the needs of the community

Manager People & Culture (all deliverables)

Outcome: The City of Wagga Wagga has efficient and effective processes Strategy: Work collaboratively with other levels of government and the community

Action

6. Engage employees and the wider community in understanding the significance of First Nations Peoples cultural protocols, such as Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country, to ensure there is a shared meaning.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

Responsibility

b) Provide opportunities for RWG members, RAP Champions, HR Managers and other key leadership staff to participate in cultural training

September 2019, 2020

Manager People & Culture

c) Distribute and promote local cultural experiences and immersion opportunities to Council staff via all staff emails and noticeboards where possible

February 2020, 2021 May 2020, 2021 July 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

a) Invite a Wiradjuri Elder to perform a Welcome to Country at the first Council meeting of the year

March 2020, 2021

Objective: We have strong leadership

Manager Audit, Risk & Governance

b) Include the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Council staff document in all new staff induction packages

December 2020

Outcome: We have leaders that represent us

Manager People & Culture

c) Provide information sessions to Council staff on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Council staff document

December 2020

Strategy: Acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land as leaders in our community

Manager Community Services

d) Include an Acknowledgement of Country at the commencement of all meetings as specified in the City of Wagga Wagga’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols p.10

December 2019

Objective: We are informed and involved in decision making

Manager Executive Support

e) Organise and display an Acknowledgment of Country plaque/ display in Council office/s or on the external façade of the Civic Centre building

December 2019

Outcome: Everyone in our community feels they have been heard and understood

Manager Operations

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RESPECT

Action

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Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

September 2019

Strategy: Engage and recognise community groups

Manager Executive Support

g) Include an Acknowledgement of Country on all email signatures

September 2019

Objective: We are a tourist destination

Manager Information & Customer Service

h) Consult with local Wiradjuri Elders to publish an Acknowledgement of Country on Council’s website, including information to assist readers to understand its meaning and significance

December 2019

Outcome: We promote our city and villages

Manager Community Services

i) Investigate the streamlining of budget lines to ensure accurate reflection of Welcome to Country services for reporting purposes

June 2020

Manager Finance

j) Fly the First Nations flags at Council buildings as per the Australian National Flag Protocols

March 2020, 2021

Manager Audit, Risk & Governance

k) Develop and maintain a list on the Intranet of Wiradjuri Elders who perform Welcome to Country for Council reference

December 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

l) Invite a Wiradjuri Elder to provide a Welcome to Country at all significant Council organised events as per Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols: A guide for Councillors and Council staff

December 2019 December 2020 (update progress)

Manager Community Service, Manager Executive Support

Deliverable

Timeline

f) Update our internal and external meeting agenda templates to include an Acknowledgement of Country

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Action 7. Recognise First Nations dates of significance and cultural events.

8. Strengthen the community’s relationship with the local environment to increase knowledge about local Wiradjuri culture and history.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Include First Nations dates of significance in Council’s corporate calendars for internal use

June 2020, 2021

Manager Executive Support

b) Invite staff to attend Council run events of First Nations Peoples significance for example; art exhibitions, guest speakers and sporting events

December 2019 December 2020 (update progress)

Manager Community Services

c) Provide opportunities to showcase First Nations cultures at Council organised events such as Fusion, Fresh etc.

December 2019 December 2020 (update progress)

Manager Community Services

d) Promote Council and community led cultural events to the wider community via existing council databases and Council’s online platforms

September 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

e) Acknowledge the inequities of the past and the First Nations Peoples’ strength and survival in formal speeches in Australia Day celebrations.

March 2020, 2021

Manager Executive Support

a) Identify appropriate sites for re-naming/naming of parks and significant places in Wiradjuri language, in consultation with Traditional Custodians, to reflect the history of the local area and the importance of Wiradjuri culture

December 2019, 2020

b) Collaborate with key agencies to implement the Management Plan for recognised Aboriginal places (November 2016) within the Local Government Area

December 2020

Objective: We are a Tourist destination

Responsibility

Manager Operations

Objective: We promote our cities and villages Strategy: Showcase the cultural heritage of the Wiradjuri People

Manager Operations

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RESPECT

Action

9. Provide opportunities for First Nations employees to engage with their culture and community by celebrating and/ or participating in NAIDOC Week events.

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Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

c) Work with NSW Local Land Services and Office of Environment and Heritage to investigate further declarations of Aboriginal Places in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area

July 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services, Manager Environment & City Compliance

a) Support First Nations groups to host NAIDOC Week events by providing advice and assistance with elements such funding applications, event management expertise etc.

July 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

b) In consultation with First Nations Peoples, host a NAIDOC Week morning tea and encourage staff attendance

July 2019, 2020

Manager Executive Support

c) Encourage staff to participate in at least one NAIDOC Week event

July 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

d) Review human resources policies and procedures to ensure there are no barriers to staff participating in NAIDOC Week

March 2020, 2021

Manager People & Culture

e) Provide opportunities for all First Nations staff to participate with their cultures and communities during NAIDOC Week

July 2019, 2020

Manager People & Culture

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Responsibility

Action 10. Preserve our region’s Aboriginal cultural heritage.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

Objective: We are proud of where we live and our identity

Manager Community Services

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Investigate opportunities to create site specific public art opportunities that share First Nations Peoples stories with the Wagga Wagga community

July 2019, 2020

b) Include information about Wiradjuri people and history in visitor attraction publications

June 2020, 2021

Strategy: Indigenous significant spaces and places are resourced and protected

Manager Community Services

c) Undertake regular training to better manage and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage assets in our LGA

June 2020, 2021

Objective: We are a tourist destination.

Manager Operations Manager People & Culture

d) Undertake cultural training modules to adopt traditional land management practices

December 2019, 2020

Objective: We promote our city and villages.

Manager Operations, Manager Environment & City Compliance

e) Investigate creating a fixed Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) layer of Aboriginal sites to trigger Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit actions, where required

December 2020

Strategy: Showcase the cultural heritage of the Wiradjuri people.

Manager Information & Customer Service

f) Promote local First Nations culture in Council buildings by displaying culturally significant assets, such as artworks, artefacts, books and documents

December 2020

Strategy: Showcase the heritage of the Wiradjuri people

Manager Community Services

g) Undertake programs to record First Nations Peoples oral histories at the Museum of the Riverina and Wagga Wagga City Library

December 2020

Objective: We value our heritage

Manager Community Services

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OPPORTUNITIES

Tech Savy Seniors 2018 Elders and students from Bidgee School Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

Wagga Wagga City Council will aim to establish and better support employment, procurement and professional development opportunities for First Nations Peoples, groups and organisations for a diverse and inclusive community.

Action 11. Investigate opportunities to improve and increase First Nations Peoples employment outcomes within our workplace.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

Objective: We have employment opportunities

Manager People & Culture

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Review and update Council’s recruitment policies and procedures to reduce barriers to First Nations employees, and future applicants, participating in the workplace

December 2020

b) Increase First Nations Peoples employment to a minimum target of six percent (6%)

December 2020

Strategies: Cater for employees of all abilities

Manager People & Culture

c) Introduce cadetships and traineeships in Council for First Nations Peoples

December 2020

Provide apprenticeship and traineeship programs

Manager People & Culture

d) Include First Nations Peoples representation on recruitment and selection panels for identified positions

December 2020

Provide mentoring opportunities

Manager People & Culture

e) Create and include a commitment to reconciliation statement in all job advertisements

September 2019

Outcome: We attract and support local businesses and industry

Manager People & Culture

f) Utilise local First Nations Peoples databases and networks to promote Council vacancies

December 2019, 2020

Strategies: Encourage businesses to use local produce

Manager People & Culture, Manager Community Services

Outcome: We have career opportunities

Objective: We are a regional capital

Manager People & Culture g) Host a stall at local Aboriginal employment expos to highlight career opportunities within Council

December 2019, 2020

Promote and support local produce through festivals and events

Manager People & Culture

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OPPORTUNITIES

Action

12. Increase First Nations Peoples supplier diversity within our organisation.

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Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

h) Create a minimum of 1 identified position in an identified area of future growth at Council

December 2020

i) Collect information on our current First Nations staff to inform future employment opportunities

December 2019, 2020

Manager People & Culture

j) Develop and implement a First Nations Peoples Employment and Retention Strategy

December 2020

Manager People & Culture

k) Engage with existing First Nations staff to consult on employment strategies, including professional development

December 2020

Manager People & Culture

l) Advertise vacancies in First Nations media

December 2019, 2020

Manager People & Culture

a) Develop a recommendation around value for members that determines if Supply Nation should be considered

December 2019

Objective: We are a regional capital

Manager Procurement

b) Promote the sourcing of corporate gifts from local First Nations businesses

December 2019, 2020

Outcome: We attract and support local businesses and industry

Manager Executive Support

c) Deliver a community education program for First Nations businesses to inform business owners how they can become suppliers to Council

December 2020

Strategies: Encourage businesses to use local produce

Manager Procurement

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Recognise and promote successful business people in the region

Promote and support local produce through festivals and events

Responsibility Manager People & Culture

Action

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

Responsibility

d) Assist First Nations businesses to better understand how to provide quotations and bid for Council tenders by providing advice and support on the process

September 2020

Recognise and promote successful business people in the region

Manager Procurement

e) Review and update procurement policies and procedures to identify barriers to First Nations businesses to supply Council with goods and services

September 2019

Objective: We are proud of where we live and our identity

Manager Procurement

f) Promote opportunities to First Nations creatives to sell their art and cultural objects at the Wagga Wagga Visitor Information Centre

March 2020, 2021

Outcome: We value our heritage

Manager Community Services

g) Incorporate First Nations businesses and/or businesses, which employ a high percentage of First Nations employees, into Council’s electronic procurement system and include request in vendor management system, expression of interest process

December 2020

Manager Procurement

h) Advocate for local government policy and legislative reform to local government authorities, Indigenous business, Economic Policy Branch, NSW Policy and Reform Aboriginal Affairs to allow direct purchase agreements to First Nations owned businesses and/or which employ a high percentage of First Nations Peoples employees where value for money is evident

September 2019, 2020

Manager Procurement

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OPPORTUNITIES

Action

13. Encourage staff to actively participate in First Nations programs, projects and events.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Deliverable

Timeline

i) Advocate for legislative change at state government level to add weightings to Council’s tender evaluations for businesses that have cultural heritage management plans and engagement with local First Nations stakeholders

September 2019, 2020

Manager Procurement

j) Develop and communicate to staff a list of First Nations Peoples businesses that can be used to procure goods and services

September 2019, 2020

Manage Procurement, Manager Community Services

k) Develop at least one commercial relationship with an First Nations owned business

December 2020

Manager Procurement

a) Promote volunteering opportunities for Council staff to volunteer with First Nations organisations, programs, events and activities

June 2020, 2021

Objective: We are active community members

Manager Community Services

b) Identify available volunteering opportunities with local First Nations organisations

September 2019, 2020

Outcome: We recognise we all have a role to play

Manager Community Services

Strategies: Promote opportunities to be involved Participate in volunteering programs

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INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Responsibility

Action 14. Support First Nations youth to develop their skills.

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Develop and promote work experience opportunities at Council for First Nations school students

June 2020, 2021

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

Objective: We have employment opportunities

Manager People & Culture

Outcome: We have career opportunities Strategies: Encourage opportunities to volunteer Provide graduate programs

15. Integrate First Nations objectives into Council strategic plans and policies.

a) Recognise the importance of and promote cultural practices in urban spaces around Wagga Wagga through our strategic plans and management plans

September 2019, 2020

b) Provide onsite interpretive signage outlining the cultural significance and history of significant Aboriginal places within the Wagga Wagga LGA

December 2019, 2020

Objective: We are proud of where we live and our identity

Manager City Strategy

Outcome: We value our heritage Strategy: Indigenous significant spaces and places are resourced and protected Objective: We are a tourist destination

Manager Community Services, Manager Operations, Manager Environment & City Compliance

Outcome: We promote our city and villages Strategy: Showcase the cultural heritage of the Wiradjuri people

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OPPORTUNITIES

Action 16. Value First Nations consultation on Council programs and projects.

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Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

Outcome: We have strong leadership

Manager Project Operations

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Amend Council’s Project Management Methodology template to embed a section to report on consultation with First Nations stakeholders

December 2019

b) Meet 4 times per year with an Indigenous Consultative Group to review current and proposed Council programs and projects

December 2019, 2020

c) Develop and publish on the Intranet, a registered list of Aboriginal parties to be consulted with about Council projects and programs

September 2019

Manager Community Services

d) Include First Nations elements (interpretative signage, use of traditional names, native planting etc.) in Council development projects such as playgrounds, landscaping, gardens and buildings

September 2019, 2020

Manager Environment & City Compliance Manager Project Operations, Manager City Strategy

e) Consult First Nations youth in relevant policy development and decision making

September 2019, 2020

Manager Community Services

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent Strategy: Report against actions in strategies and plans

Manager Community Services

GOVERNANCE, TRACKING PROGRESS AND REPORTING Wagga NAIDOC 2016 Maliyaa dance group perform at the Marrumbidja wetlands Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

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GOVERNANCE, TRACKING PROGRESS AND REPORTING We will monitor the progress of Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure the accountability, governance and leadership of our organisation.

Deliverable

Timeline

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

17. Report RAP achievements, challenges and learnings to Reconciliation Australia.

a) Complete and submit the RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia annually

September 2019, 2020

Objective: We have strong leadership

b) Investigate participating in the RAP Barometer

May 2020

Strategy: Report against actions in strategies and plans

Manager Community Services

18. Report RAP achievements, challenges and learnings internally and externally.

a) Integrate RAP reporting into Council’s Integrated Performance, Planning and Reporting system (IPPR)

September 2019, 2020

Objective: We have strong leadership

Manager City Strategy

b) Publically report our RAP achievements, challenges and learnings in Council’s Annual Report

June 2020, 2021

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Manager City Strategy

c) Provide annual updates to Council on RAP progress

September 2019, 2020

Strategy: Report against actions in strategies and plans

Manager Community Services

Action

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Responsibility Manager City Strategy

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

Action 19. Review, refresh and update RAP.

Link to Community Strategic Plan 2040

Responsibility

November 2020

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Manager Community Services

b) Send draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for review and feedback

December 2020

Strategy: Adopt good governance and ethical behaviours.

Manager Community Services

c) Submit draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for formal endorsement

April 2021

Deliverable

Timeline

a) Liaise with Reconciliation Australia to develop a new RAP based on learnings, challenges and achievements

Manager Community Services

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SIGNIFICANT DATES AND EVENTS FOR OUR COMMUNITY January 26

Australia Day/ Survival Day

February 13

National Apology Day

March 20

National Close the Gap Day

March 21

Harmony Day

April 25

Coloured Diggers Day/ Anzac Day

May 26

National Sorry Day

May 27-June 3

National Reconciliation Week

First full week of July

NAIDOC Week

August 4

National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day Wagga NAIDOC 2016 NAIDOC Week Ball attendees Image: Jack of Hearts Studio

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INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN July 2019 – June 2021

A CONNECTED COMMUNITY THAT THRIVES ON POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY, AND PROVIDES EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER COMMUNITY MEMBERS. RAP Working Group 2017

THE LIGHTS OF WAGGA (2016) Aunty Kath Withers “This artwork reminds me of previous trips, as a child, droving with my father. The circles represent the wagon wheels. The darker dots down the centre represent the river. All the other dots represent the lights of Wagga as you come over the hill from Galore.”

Aunty Kath Withers is a Wiradjuri Elder and visual artist from Wagga Wagga. Her art is inspired by her life including memories of her childhood growing up in Tin Town on the Wiradjuri Reserve. Aunty Kath is an inspiration to her community and passes her art and cultural knowledge on through workshops inspiring Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal creatives of all ages.

This document is the outcome of consultation between First Nations People in Wagga Wagga and Council staff to provide an action plan for the City of Wagga Wagga to further strengthen Reconciliation across the Local Government Area.

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CONTACT DETAILS For further information about Wagga Wagga City Council’s RAP

Innovate

Reconciliation Action Plan July 2019 – June 2021

Postal Address Social Planning, Wagga Wagga City Council, PO Box 20 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Phone 1300 292 442