LOGAN CITY COUNCIL INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 Logan City Council’s vision for reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is grounded in respect and strong relationships. We recognise the past and are working together to be one community. BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES, BUSINESSES AND PRIDE CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR MESSAGE FROM THE CEO I am pleased to present Logan City Council’s Reconciliation I am excited about the development of Logan City Council’s Action Plan 2015-2017. This plan outlines how Logan City Reconciliation Action Plan 2015-2017, which is well aligned to Council will work within its sphere of influence to contribute to our core values of our people, excellence, leadership reconciliation within our great City. and integrity. ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER POPULATION WITHIN LOGAN CITY COUNCIL LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA 7 The City of Logan is vibrant, culturally diverse and Through this plan, we aim to build stronger relationships and TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS AND COMMUNITY ELDERS 9 experiencing unprecedented expansion. As our City continues trust between Logan City Council and Aboriginal and Torres to grow and change, Logan City Council has a role in taking Strait Islander communities in the City of Logan, increase action towards reconciliation to help us build an even better community pride, decrease prejudice and support an City for everyone. equitable workforce. Through this Reconciliation Action Plan we join a growing Logan City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2015-2017 is number of Local Governments who are creating positive a strategic document involving all areas of the organisation. change throughout their organisations, communities It includes a range of achievable and practical measures that and Australia. will influence positive reconciliation outcomes within the City of Logan. This is an exciting time for our City and we hope that, through our actions, we can encourage other local organisations I look forward to being a part of the implementation of and businesses to commence their Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2015-2017. own journey of reconciliation for the betterment of our whole City. Chris Rose PSM Chief Executive Officer Logan City Council Cr Pam Parker Mayor City of Logan 1 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS3 Local Artwork Acknowledgements OUR BUSINESS Location of Logan City 5 11 12 OUR RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 13 OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATION 14 WHAT WE ARE ALREADY DOING 15 ACTION PLAN 17 1. Relationships 17 2. Respect 20 3. Opportunities 24 4. Tracking Progress and Monitoring 26 RAP WORKING GROUP 27 CONTACT DETAILS 28 ACRONYMS29 ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CALENDAR 30 2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ‘Logan City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands across the City of Logan, and extends that respect to the Elders, past, present and emerging for they hold the memories, the traditions, the cultures and hopes of Australia’s First Peoples’. Logan City Council would like to thank the Elders, members of the community, and staff from across the organisation who provided valuable input to the development of Council’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Logan City Council would like to acknowledge artists Colleen Sam and Ronald Vieritz for providing the artwork presented in this plan. Logan City Council appreciates the support provided by Reconciliation Australia in developing this RAP. The goal of Reconciliation Australia is building relationships for change between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. Logan City Council would like to advance this goal within the City of Logan. Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dancers 3 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 4 LOCAL ARTWORK ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ARTIST NAME: ARTIST NAME: Kalkadoon artist Colleen Sam (Ngungernnumma) Ronald Vieritz ARTWORK NAME: ARTWORK NAME: “Logan City: All cultures coming together” “Hand on Land” Colleen Sam is a local artist who has lived in Logan for 25 Ronald Vieritz is a Jagara man, which is a Traditional years. Colleen was born in Mount Isa in Kalkadoon Country, Custodian group of the Logan area. Through this artwork, where her mother’s people are from, and her father’s people the artist represents the importance of conservation of land are from Warrumunga Country in Tennant Creek in the and water, and how we have learned to live with and on the Northern Territory. Colleen’s style is traditional Aboriginal art land. This painting was created while the artist was working which shares stories of dreamtime and Aboriginal people. in landscaping during a dry period. The use of cracked clay This artwork is the artist’s depiction of the coming together of represents the dryness of the land, as well as the hands of the all cultures who now live in the City of Logan. The coloured workers at the end of the day. The two shades of brown of the footprints represent people from many cultures coming hand represent both European and Aboriginal people working together and meeting in Logan. The central, colourful, circle together to look after the land. The blue outline around the represents the people in Logan, while the nine surrounding hand symbolises the need to keep water conservation close circles represent the many different homelands of those to us, and the large white swirls represent walkways and people. The Logan River, as well as clouds, rainbows and rain discovery tracks which the artist worked on as part of the are represented. The artist pays respects to the Traditional redevelopment of farmlands into a wildlife corridor. Ancestors of Logan through the depiction of spirit women, men and children. All images are copyrighted © by the artists. The use of any image from this publication is prohibited unless prior written permission from the artist is obtained. 5 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 6 ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER POPULATION WITHIN LOGAN CITY COUNCIL LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA The City of Logan is home to a diversity of Aboriginal and Logan’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population is While we celebrate these successes, it is also acknowledged A set of ambitious targets have been set by the Coalition of Torres Strait Islander peoples, including descendants from young. Almost half (49%) are under 17 years of age, and the that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience Australian Governments (COAG) to ‘close the gap’ nationally6. the Aboriginal people of Logan (Traditional Custodians) as percentage of people under the age of 24 is higher than the ongoing disadvantage associated with the loss of lands, Locally, Logan City Council has committed, through this well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from Queensland average. identity, language and culture which continues to impact Reconciliation Action Plan, to working within its sphere of upon individuals and the community. This is reflected in a influence to contribute to closing the gap locally. across Australia. There is a wealth of talent, success and creativity in Logan’s significant gap between outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres According to the 2011 census the City of Logan is home Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, which Strait Islander and other Australians in terms of life expectancy, to 7,795 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples , includes artists, musicians, teachers, health workers, health, educational attainment and employment. representing 2.8% of the population2. This is almost double leaders, entrepreneurs and many passionate, dedicated and the number recorded in the 2006 census3. successful people. 1 For Logan’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, the following gaps in outcomes can be quantified from The 2011 census included: census data: • 6,654 who identified as being Aboriginal • 32% have completed year 12 (compared to 43% the overall community) • 655 who identified as being Torres Strait Islander • 461 who identified as being both Aboriginal and Torres • 8.8% have a tertiary education (compared to 16.1% of the overall community) Strait Islander4. • 17.8% are looking for work (compared to 7.2% of the overall community) • 58.3% households are rented (compared to 30.4% of the overall community)5 The community have advised that the actual figure is likely to be higher, however Logan City Council must rely on formally recorded data such as census data. 2 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011) 3 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011) 4 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011) 1 7 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 5 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011) 6 (www.coag.gov.au/closing_the_gap_in_indigenous_disadvantage) 8 Aunty Betty McGrady and Aunty Peggy Tidyman from the Logan District Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Elders — winners of the 2014 Davida Steele Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Organisation. TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS AND COMMUNITY ELDERS TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS (TRADITIONAL OWNERS) seek to pass judgement on the validity of any claim. It is The City of Logan is at the intersection of several groups who acknowledged that the areas claimed by the different groups each have a claim as Traditional Custodians of lands within the may significantly overlap, and that each group holds strong Logan area. These groups are at various stages of researching convictions about their unique spiritual, historical and ancestral and documenting their ancestry, history, language and cultural connections to lands within the City of Logan. information. A number of groups have engaged in native title processes under the Native Title Act 1993, however no native Examples of Traditional Custodian responsibilities and matters, title determinations have been made affecting the City of relevant to Logan City Council, include: Logan at the time of writing this RAP. Logan City Council is aware of the following active groups who • Welcome to Country services • cultural heritage and matters relating to land and place claim Traditional Custodianship over lands within the Logan City Local Government Area (in alphabetical order): • Turrbal (pronounced: Tur-ra-bul) people • Yagara (pronounced: Yag-gar-rah) language speaking people • culture and language revival, preservation and education. COMMUNITY ELDERS (HISTORICAL ELDERS) There are many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders who undertake important work within and for the Logan community who are not the Traditional Custodians of • Yugambeh (pronounced: You-gam-bear) language speaking people • Yugara / YUgarapul (pronounced: Yug-gar-rah / You-gar-ra-pool) people. Logan City Council respectfully acknowledges and recognises all Traditional Custodian claimant groups and does not the Logan area. These Elders are generally referred to as Community Elders or Historical Elders. Many of these Elders have lived in the City of Logan for all or most of their lives, and are passionate about the Logan Examples of Community Elder responsibilities and matters, community, however their ancestral lands are elsewhere relevant to Logan City Council, include: in Australia. • providing advice about issues affecting the community • working to improve social outcomes (e.g. health, education, 9 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 • leading and participating in community events • education and advocacy regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, rights and reconciliation • providing an Acknowledgement of Country when it is not employment) for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander possible for a Traditional Custodian to provide a Welcome community to Country. 10 Kilcoy Caboolture OUR BUSINESS The City of Logan is a local government area in South East LOCATION OF LOGAN CITY Esk Our City Vision is: Queensland with an estimated resident population of 300,667 (in 2013) covering an area of 95, 960 hectares, making it Logan City: Building our Communities, Our Businesses one of the largest local governments in Australia. The City is and Our Pride situated between Brisbane to the north and the Gold Coast to the south and also borders Scenic Rim, Ipswich and Redland Logan City Council’s Corporate Plan outlines the following Council areas. The City of Logan is divided into 64 suburbs Priority Areas for 2013-2018: and 12 Council divisions. The City of Logan is one of the most culturally diverse cities in • Building our major infrastructure • Building our City’s image Queensland with at least 215 different nationalities, ethnicities and cultural groups. At the 2011 census, 2.8% of the City’s residents identified as being Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples and 26.1% were born overseas. Strathpine Gatton Brisbane • Building our economic base • Building our environment • Building our service excellence As a City we continue to become more diverse. Of the 72,618 people living in the City of Logan who were born overseas (in 2011), 21% arrived in Australia within the last 5 years7. As our City continues to grow and change, Logan City Council has a Ipswich • Building the wellbeing of our communities • Managing growth in our City Beenleigh leadership role in taking action towards reconciliation. Logan City Council employs approximately 1,700 staff who work together to deliver a range of services to residents and City of Logan Warrill View businesses. Due to the absence of statistical information, Logan City Council is currently in the process of gaining an understanding of the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples employed by Council. 7 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011) Gold Coast Boonah Beaudesert Nerang Surfers Paradise 11 12 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 Tweed Heads OUR RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATION Logan City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2015-2017 is Logan City Council has developed this RAP now as it is a a strategic document involving all areas of the organisation. key action in the Logan: City of Choice Two Year Action Plan. It includes a range of achievable and practical measures that The City of Choice Two Year Action Plan was the result of “Logan City Council’s vision for will influence positive reconciliation outcomes within the the Logan: City of Choice Summit in February 2013, which reconciliation with Aboriginal and City of Logan. attracted more than 1,000 people from community, business Torres Strait Islander peoples is and non-government sectors, as well as Council, state and grounded in respect and strong While some areas of the organisation have been actively federal government representatives. Further information about relationships. initiating, engaging and supporting reconciliation activities the City of Choice Action Plan can be found on Logan City for many years, this RAP marks the beginning of a whole-of- Council’s website. We recognise the past and are working together to be one Council reconciliation journey. The development of a RAP also responds to Council’s Cultural Logan City Council’s RAP has been prepared by a working Diversity Strategy 2013 - 2016 and aligns with the Arts, group of Elected Members, senior staff, Aboriginal and Culture and Heritage Strategy 2014 - 2017 and Libraries Torres Strait Islander staff and interested staff from across and Cultural Services’ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander the organisation. A list of Council’s RAP Working Group Strategy 2013 - 2018. community.” members at the time of writing is included after the action tables. Conversations and input from Aboriginal and Torres READING OUR RAP Strait Islander network groups and Elders has also informed The following table provides an indication of how to read the the development of Council’s RAP. In addition to the Working actions table in our RAP: Group, Council’s CEO and Mayor are also champions of the RAP. Action Items: describes the overall purpose and objective of the action. This RAP outlines how Logan City Council will work within its Responsibility: outlines which Council branch or branches will take the lead as well as key stakeholders in delivering the action. In all cases, the branch Manager will be responsible for ensuring the action is delivered. Timing: outlines when an action/deliverable will be completed, unless otherwise stated. ‘Annually’ refers to the duration of the Plan. Deliverables: details the activities and deliverables associated with each action item. sphere of influence to contribute to reconciliation within the City of Logan. By implementing our RAP, Logan City Council also aims to demonstrate leadership in our community, and challenge other local organisations and businesses to commence their own journey of reconciliation for the betterment of our whole City. Chris Tamwoy at Neville Lawrie Quarry 13 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 14 WHAT WE ARE ALREADY DOING Logan City Council is already engaged in a range of programs and initiatives that have contributed to establishing relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. PAST AND ONGOING INITIATIVES • Cultural Diversity Strategy 2013-2016 • Libraries and Cultural Services’ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy 2013-2018 • Nyeumba Meta collection and Advisory Group • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnership Group • Our Aunties and Uncles Digital Stories • Yarning with Our Mob and numerous public programs in libraries • Grant applications in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and groups • Support and partnership in developing the Yugambeh language app • Write into Art: Yugambeh Language project for local students, delivered through a partnership between Logan Art Gallery and Yugambeh Museum • Elders liaising with Parks branch for Culture in the Park • Logan Art Collection and exhibitions at Logan Art Gallery • Reading for Reconciliation book club • Two day Cultural Heritage training session held with Council staff • Cultural Mix weekly new staff induction (including a brief introduction regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Acknowledgement of Country) • Events (including an annual NAIDOC flag raising ceremony and Council participation at community NAIDOC events) • Public art with Aboriginal and Torres Strait community participation • Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in conservation projects INITIATIVES THAT ARE UNDERWAY • Logan City Council guideline for Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome to Country and engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples • Black Diggers of Logan digital stories project • Encouraging grant applications for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led initiatives • Elders liaising with Parks – expanding Culture in the Park across Logan • Uncle Reginald Knox retrospective exhibition at Logan Art Gallery Toni Pollard, Aunty Celia Watego, Aunty Iris Glenbar and Harrison Pollard, descendants of Black Diggers Jack Pollard, George and Murray Watego and Valentine Hare. 15 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 16 ACTION PLAN Action Item Responsibility Timeline Deliverables 1. RELATIONSHIPS Organise and host at least one internal event each year to celebrate and participate in NRW. Examples of opportunities identified include: Getting to know each other better assists us to communicate more effectively and develop empathy and • tap into existing staff leadership and development activities (e.g. Leadership Live) understanding. Respectful relationships enable us to learn from each other and develop an inclusive and strong community. 1.2.3 Ensure that all Council staff are provided with an opportunity to participate in National Reconciliation Week (NRW) to build relationships and understanding. Focus areas: Council staff and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members to develop and strengthen Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, Marketing, Office of the CEO, RWG 27 May – 3 June annually • communicate to staff about the meaning NRW and the significance of the dates relationships through shared activities and increased learning. Action Item 1.1 Timeline Deliverables Lead: Community Services December 2015 RWG Terms of Reference finalised. Stakeholders: RAP Working Group, Libraries and Cultural Services Each quarter, annually from June 2015 RAP Working Group to meet quarterly per year. Community partnerships 1.2.1 Continue the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnership Group which provides a framework for constructive dialogue between Council and Logan’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 1.2.2 Continue to support the work of the Nyeumba Meta Advisory Group, which is a forum for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to collaborate with Council and provide advice and direction on appropriate and relevant programs, collections and exhibitions at Council’s libraries and art gallery. 17 • internal staff networking events • provide opportunities for all staff to participate in community events. RAP working group 1.1.1 Continue the RAP Working Group (RWG) to actively monitor the RAP development, including implementation of actions, tracking of progress and reporting. 1.2 Responsibility Lead: Community Services, Libraries and Cultural Services bi-monthly, 2015 from June 2015 The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnership Group to meet every two months in 2015. Stakeholders: Marketing (Community Engagement program) December 2015 Partnership group to agree on a framework for continuing the group beyond the City of Choice Two Year Action Plan timeframe. Lead: Libraries and Cultural Services Bi-monthly, annually from June 2015 The Nyeumba Meta Advisory Group continues to meet every two months. INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 • invite Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Elders to talk with staff 1.2.4 Continue to engage with network groups that are run by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members to share information about Council programs and connect with the issues and opportunities discussed in these meetings. 1.2.5 Establish a relationship with Reconciliation Queensland Incorporated and identify potential partnerships in supporting grass-roots reconciliation initiatives. 1.2.6 Continue to work with and strengthen ongoing relationships with Traditional Custodian claimant groups, including understanding the hopes and aspirations of Traditional Custodians, and identifying how Council can appropriately support them in achieving these within its sphere of influence. 1.2.7 Investigate opportunities for Council to build relationships between local Elders and Council’s senior leadership and Elected Members. Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, other branches where appropriate. Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: RWG members, Libraries and Cultural Services Report in December annually Council staff members to attend community meetings where possible and appropriate. Report in December annually Regularly share information about Council programs and initiatives through email networks. Initial meeting by December 2015, report progress in December annually Identify and progress partnership opportunities with Reconciliation Queensland Incorporated, such as participating in the Queensland Reconciliation Awards, hosting events and activities, etc. Report in December annually Hold regular discussions between Traditional Custodian groups and Council. Report in December annually Invite Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders in the community to face to face networking opportunities and/or events with the Logan City Council’s Mayor, Councillors, CEO, DCEOs and Managers (e.g. an Aunties and Uncles breakfast event). Lead: Administration Stakeholders: Marketing (Community Engagement program), Community Services, other relevant branches Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: SLPT, Governance, Branch Managers 18 Action Item Responsibility Timeline Deliverables 1.2.8 Ensure that Council maintains a contacts list of local key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives and stakeholders, including Elders, Traditional Custodians and other key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and representatives. 2. RESPECT Lead: Community Services Report in December annually Update and maintain Council’s contacts list of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations. Learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritages in our area helps build respect and 1.2.9 Identify local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists to support Logan’s Sister City relationships. 1.3 respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First Peoples. Lead: Libraries and Cultural Services Stakeholders: Logan Office of Economic Development December 2015 Identify and create a list of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists for potential Sister City arts exchanges. Report in December annually Engage with local artists to source appropriate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander products for Sister City gifts. Focus areas: Engagement of Council staff, cultural awareness raising, implementation of cultural protocols community programs and promotion and communications. Action Item 2.1 Responsibility Timeline Deliverables March 2016 Ensure cultural awareness is incorporated into the induction program from newly Elected Members following the March 2016 election. Report in December annually Deliver cultural information and/or briefings at management forums and events. Report in December annually Develop and implement other appropriate cultural engagement strategies with Council leadership. December 2015 Invitation to Council staff to be involved in the RAP through becoming a RAP Ambassador. December 2015 Establish, collate and communicate resources (i.e. a RAP Toolkit) to support RAP Ambassadors. Staff engagement Venues and Spaces December 2015 1.3.1 Continue to encourage and promote the use of Council’s spaces and places by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as reflected in the Logan: City of Choice Action Plan. 1.3.2 Continue to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to identify opportunities for public art. 19 understanding. Sharing this learning, acknowledging special sites and respecting cultural protocols demonstrates Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, Parks, Sport, Leisure and Facilities, Environment and Sustainability Lead: Libraries and Cultural Services INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 Report in December annually Continue to work with the community, through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnership Group, to identify and progress opportunities to achieve their vision and plan for a dedicated community space. Develop targeted communications when EOIs for leases for Council facilities become available, including ensuring that contact details for interested Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups are up to date on Council’s community facilities leasing waiting list. Report in December annually Encourage and support the use of existing spaces and places, such as parks, open spaces, public meeting spaces and venues, by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and peoples. Report in December annually Develop public artworks with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community as opportunities arise, in accordance with existing procurement policies. 2.1.1 Engage Elected Members, senior leadership and management in opportunities to develop a greater understanding of RAP commitments and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, aspirations and achievements. 2.1.2 Establish a RAP Ambassadors program which would engage interested Council staff in promoting the RAP and delivering reconciliation messages and activities with the aim of developing a foundation and culture of respect and understanding throughout the organisation. Lead: RWG members Stakeholders: SLPT, Governance, Community Services, Branch managers Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: RWG members, RAP Ambassadors Ongoing from January 2016 Report in December annually Report in December annually RAP Ambassadors to communicate, promote and act as a driver of Council’s RAP, including playing a key role in implementing action 2.1.3 of this RAP. Report on progress to the RWG annually. 20 Action Item 2.1.3 Provide opportunities for Council staff to engage in cultural learning experiences to increase understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, achievements and aspirations and ensure that these opportunities are available to all staff. 2.1.4 Continue to support NAIDOC Week and encourage Council staff to engage in this important national celebration. Responsibility Lead: Community Services, RAP Ambassadors, RWG members Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, Marketing Lead: Marketing (flag raising ceremony), Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, RWG members Timeline Deliverables December 2015 Share the RAP and key messaging with all Council staff (i.e. hard copies of the RAP in shared spaces, etc). December 2015 Establish a staff intranet page that includes the RAP, information about events and links to relevant information and resources. At least bi-monthly from January 2016 Hold regular lunch box learning sessions, including videos, media, internal and external speakers, discussions, etc. RAP Ambassadors would play a key role in delivering these sessions. Report in December annually Upload regular information on Council’s daily bulletin and/or intranet page. Report in December annually Develop engagement activities that target and involve outside staff without internet access. Report in December annually Promote existing programs, initiatives and achievements to all staff. Report in December annually Participate in and promote campaign initiatives such as ‘Racism Stops with Me’ and ‘Recognise’. First full week of July annually Continue to coordinate a NAIDOC flag raising ceremony in partnership with Community Elders. First full week of July annually Continue to promote and where possible support NAIDOC events in the community. First full week of July annually Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to participate in local NAIDOC Week events. First full week of July annually Encourage all Council staff to participate in NAIDOC Week celebrations, including reviewing policies to enable staff participation. First full week of July annually Investigate hosting an internal NAIDOC week event for Council staff. This may include a lunch box session. Action Item 2.1.6 Strengthen partnerships with the community through identifying volunteering opportunities for Council staff at community events and organisations. 2.2 21 Stakeholders: RWG members, Strategy, Leadership and Performance Team (SLPT), People and Culture INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 Lead: Community Services, Libraries and Cultural Services Stakeholders: People and Culture, RWG members 2.2.1 Continue to provide information about Logan’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Council’s “Cultural Mix” staff induction session for new staff. June 2016 Deliverables Report in December annually Identify and promote opportunities for staff to volunteer at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community events and organisations to expand staff knowledge and experience. 2.2.2 Provide opportunities for all Council staff to engage in comprehensive cultural competence training. Delivered weekly Lead: Community Services Lead: Community Services, People and Culture Report in December annually New staff are provided with broad information about Logan’s diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and made aware of Council’s RAP and related policies. December 2016 Develop and pilot a cultural awareness training strategy for Council staff which defines cultural learning needs of employees in all areas of Council and considers various ways of which cultural learning can be provided (online, face to face workshops, cultural immersion). All staff should be encouraged to participate in this training. December 2015 In consultation with key Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander representatives, finalise and seek Council endorsement for a Council guideline for acknowledging and engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. Report in December annually Communicate with and engage Council staff, including incorporating the Guideline into material developed to support RAP Ambassador’s. Report in December annually Welcome to Country provided at identified Council events in accordance with Council’s Guideline. Each full Council meeting from July 2015 Acknowledgement of Country is provided at the commencement of full Council meetings. 2.3Protocols 2.3.1 Engage Council employees and Elected Members in understanding cultural protocols around Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome to Country and engaging with representatives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. 2.3.2 Continue to encourage Welcome to Country to be provided by a local Traditional Custodian for significant events managed by Council, including: • NAIDOC flag ceremony Lead: Community Services, Marketing (Community Engagement program) Lead: Marketing, Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services • Citizenship ceremonies Lead: Community Services Scope and develop a proposal to Council’s Strategy, Leadership and Performance Team to create and promote a Year of Reconciliation for 2017. Timeline Cultural competency Lead: Community Services 2.1.5 Identify opportunities for an organisationwide approach to promoting reconciliation messages and imbedding reconciliation into organisational culture, such as a Year of Reconciliation. Responsibility 2.3.3 Incorporate an Acknowledgement of Country in public meetings, such as full Council meetings. Stakeholders: Governance, Elected Members 22 Action Item 2.4 Timeline Deliverables April 2015 Complete and promote the Black Diggers of Logan digital stories project. Encouraging participation in employment, economic development and wellbeing initiatives for Aboriginal and Torres Report in December annually Ensure that Council’s Art Collection includes works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. contributes towards closing the gap in outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Report in December annually Appropriate initiatives, exhibitions, shows and programs are sourced/developed and delivered and/ or presented at Logan City Council venues. December 2015 Organise and purchase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags for permanent display outside Logan City Council’s Administration Building. Arts and culture 2.4.1 Continue to support Logan City Council libraries, art gallery and entertainment centre in developing projects, workshops, initiatives and exhibitions that assist in increasing public understanding, acknowledgment and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, histories and contributions. 2.5 Responsibility Lead: Sport, Leisure and Facilities, Libraries and Cultural Services 3. OPPORTUNITIES Strait Islander peoples and businesses helps to enhance life opportunities within an inclusive community, and Australians. Focus areas: employment attraction and retention, supplier diversity, funding opportunities and community programs. Displays and signage 2.5.1 Display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags outside Council’s City Administration Centre. Lead: Administration Stakeholders: Community Services Lead: Community Services 2.5.2Publicly display an Acknowledgement of Country in prominent Council venues to show respect and recognition of the Aboriginal Traditional Custodians of the Logan area. Stakeholders: RWG members, Administration, Parks, Environment and Sustainability, Customer Service, Libraries and Cultural Services, Sport, Leisure and Facilities June 2016 Organise for the display of an Acknowledgement of Country statement, as well as Council’s vision for reconciliation, in Council’s customer service centres and other identified sites (e.g. depots, libraries, parks, open spaces, key meeting spaces, etc) for public viewing. Action Item 3.1 Responsibility Timeline Deliverables Lead: People and Culture October-November annually Maintain a proportion of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander traineeships that is reflective of Logan’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population. Commence in March 2015, and report in December annually Identify and implement an appropriate approach (or approaches) to determine how many Council staff identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, including who they are, where they are located, and whether and how they would like to be involved in Council’s RAP. Employment attraction and retention 3.1.1 Continue to provide traineeship opportunities to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples within Logan City Council. 3.1.2 Ensure Council has an understanding of how many staff identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and how they would like to be engaged. Lead: Community Services Stakeholder: People and Culture Develop and communicate an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment and retention strategy. This may include investigating and developing opportunities to: Lead: Community Services 2.5.3 Investigate opportunities to incorporate Aboriginal language/s and/or words or meanings in the naming or co-naming of Council spaces and places. 2.6 Stakeholders: Parks, Environment and Sustainability, Libraries and Cultural Services, Road Infrastructure Planning, Development Assessment June 2017 Conduct a formal review of naming/co-naming policies for Council spaces and places (i.e. parks, community facilities, streets, open spaces, etc). Promotion and Communication 2.6.1 Share information with the public about Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan, including progress, achievements and related information. Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Marketing, Libraries and Cultural Services December 2015 Develop a dedicated page on Council’s website providing information about Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan, links to existing programs and initiatives, a calendar of significant dates and events and if appropriate, information about local Aboriginal history to the City of Logan. • increase employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within Logan City Council 3.1.3 Investigate opportunities to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment within Council through the development of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment and retention strategy. Lead: People and Culture Stakeholders: Marketing, Community Services, RWG members June 2017 • identify and address any barriers to employment attraction and retention • improve internal support channels and communications (including peer mentoring) • inform people of their rights under Council’s discrimination policy, including reporting racism • strengthen and support internal relationships • advertise vacancies in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media (e.g. Generation One). 23 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 24 Action Item 3.1.4 Increase the profile of Logan City as an employer of choice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through engagement with Registered Training Organisations. 3.2 3.2.2 Identify and address any barriers that might exist that impact upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in Council procurement processes. Deliverables June 2016 Develop and implement a plan to engage with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) who specifically support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. June 2016 Develop and pilot a work experience program for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students. Lead: People and Culture 4. TRACKING PROGRESS AND MONITORING Action Item Responsibility Lead: Administration Stakeholders: Community Services, all branches of Council that procure services Lead: Administration December 2015 Investigate opportunities to encourage supplier diversity within Council. December 2015 Identify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned/ run businesses. December 2015 Identify and implement strategies to encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement in procurement processes. 3.3.2 Work with the community to identify and share external funding opportunities and, where possible and appropriate, apply for funding to deliver projects in partnership with the community. Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Marketing, Libraries and Cultural Services Lead: Community Services Stakeholders: Libraries and Cultural Services, Marketing Report in December annually Ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are aware of Council funding opportunities via network groups and email lists. Report in December annually Provide support and encouragement in the preparation of funding applications where possible and appropriate. Report in December annually Where state, federal and other funding opportunities are identified, share this information with the community via networks and email lists. Report in December annually Where possible and appropriate, pursue opportunities for funding to develop and deliver community driven initiatives in partnership with the community. Report in December annually Work with the community to identify and address barriers to participating in programs. Report in December annually Capture data on participation by people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Timeline Deliverables December 2015 Develop and implement a data collection process to measure the RAP progress and successes. November annually Complete and present an annual progress report, including the RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire, for consideration and endorsement by Council. December annually Submit the RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia. July to December 2017 Review key achievements and learnings of Council’s Innovate RAP and develop priorities for a future plan. 4.1Reporting Lead: Community Services 4.1.1 Ensure that Reconciliation Australia’s annual reporting requirements are met, including reporting internally via Council. 4.2 Stakeholders: Office of the CEO, RWG, Libraries and Cultural Services Planning ahead Funding opportunities 3.3.1 Encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply for available Council funding to deliver programs for their communities. 3.4 Timeline Supplier diversity 3.2.1Investigate opportunities to encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supplier diversity within existing procurement policies and strategies. 3.3 Responsibility 4.2.1 Refresh and update the RAP based on key learnings and achievements. Lead: RWG Stakeholder: Community Services Community programs 3.4.1 Work with the community to encourage greater awareness and participation in Council managed programs aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of the community, including: • Council’s Immunisation Clinics Lead: Community Services, Animal and Pest Services (Immunisation program) • Live Well Logan program 25 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 26 RAP WORKING GROUP CONTACT DETAILS The following Elected Members and staff make up Logan City Council’s RAP Working Group at the time of writing, and developed For further information about Logan City Council’s RAP this Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. This list includes staff who identify as being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. • Oliver Simon, Deputy CEO, Community and Customer Services • Cr Russell Lutton, Deputy Mayor, Councillor, Division 2 • Cr Steve Swenson, Councillor, Division 3, and Cultures Portfolio Champion • Annette Turner, Manager, Libraries and Cultural Services • Carolyn Johnson, Manager, Animal and Pest Services • Di Ezzy, Manager, Administration • Simon Benham, Manager, Governance • Chris Boulton, Manager, Parks • Shane Mansfield, Manager, City Standards • Michelle Griffin, Community Development and Safety Program Leader (Acting), Community Services • Donald MacKenzie, Sustainable City Program Leader (Acting), Environment and Sustainability • David Hansen, Workforce Planning & Recruitment Coordinator, People and Culture POSTAL ADDRESS: Community Services Branch Logan City Council PO Box 3226 Logan City DC 4114 PHONE: 07 3412 3412 • Bronwyn Mapusua, Branch Support Officer, Marsden Depot, Road Construction and Maintenance • Derek Binstead, Cemetery Team Leader, Parks • Alice Sherring, Community Engagement Program Leader (Acting), Marketing • Peter Murphy, Customer Service Training Officer, Customer Service • Mathew Johns, Manager, Customer Service • Jess Mudge, Projects Officer, Libraries and Cultural • Mark Goldsworthy (from January 2015), Manager, People Services and Culture • Cara Powdrell, Community Development Officer, • Rob Howes (until December 2014), Workforce Planning Community Services Program Leader, People & Culture • Toni Pollard, Processing Assistant, Libraries and Cultural • Stewart Wall, Manager, Disaster Management & Specialist Services Engineering • Justine Rudd, Principal Policy Officer, Growth Management • John Webb, LEC & Community Venues Program Leader, and Urban Design Sports, Leisure and Facilities • Ron Greenwood, Labourer, Water Operations Sorry Day 2013, left to right: Aunty Heather Castledine, Cassandra Tratt (Medicare Local), Robert Frescon (Medicare Local), David Wragge (guest presenter), and Aunty Betty McGrady. 27 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 28 ACRONYMS ABS ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CALENDAR Australian Bureau of 26 JANUARY Australia Day / Day of Mourning* 13 FEBRUARY National Apology Day 21 MARCH Harmony Day MID-LATE MARCH National Close the Gap Day 26 MAY National Sorry Day / National Day of Healing 27 MAY - 3 JUNE National Reconciliation Week 3 JUNE Mabo Day 1 JULY Coming of the Light Festival (Torres Strait Islander celebration) FIRST WEEK OF JULY NAIDOC Week 4 AUGUST National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day 9 AUGUST International Day of the World’s Indigenous People Statistics CEO / DCEO Chief Executive Officer / Deputy Chief Executive Officer LCC Logan City Council NAIDOC National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee NRW National Reconciliation Week RAP Reconciliation Action Plan RWG Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group SLPT Strategy, Leadership and Performance Team *Australia Day is seen by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a day of mourning, as for many it represents a time of loss rather than a time of celebration. Many people see Australia Day as an opportunity to build awareness and have a conversation about what the day actually means to both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the broader population. Uncle Barry Watson and his grandson 29 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 30 LOGAN CITY COUNCIL INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2015–2017 BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES, BUSINESSES AND PRIDE