Project Brief
Reconciliation Action Plan
September 2015
A commitment from the City of Greater Bendigo towards advancing reconciliation in our
organisation and community
1
Project Definition
The Reconciliation Action Plan project is a demonstration of the City of Greater Bendigo’s
commitment to advancing reconciliation in our organisation, and subsequently the broader
community. The 2013 Independent Review of the City of Greater Bendigo item 47 recommended
that the City develop a Reconciliation Action Plan to facilitate better engagement with and support
for the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and better inclusion of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander citizens into the wider Bendigo community. The Plan, although an internal
document detailing the actions and responsibility for the staff of the City of Greater Bendigo, will be
developed with our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, stakeholders and
organisations as well as non-indigenous stakeholders who have an interest and expertise in the area
of reconciliation. This process is intended to embed good governance and foster positive
relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the City ensuring a high
quality plan is produced that delivers agreed actions.
2
Contents
1.
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1
Background ......................................................................................................................... 6
1.2
Approach ............................................................................................................................. 7
2.
Local context ............................................................................................................................... 8
2.1
Aboriginal history ................................................................................................................ 8
2.2
Location and boundaries..................................................................................................... 8
2.3
Population ......................................................................................................................... 10
3.
Legislative mandate .................................................................................................................. 11
4.
Principles and Objectives .......................................................................................................... 12
4.1
Principles ........................................................................................................................... 12
4.2
Objectives.......................................................................................................................... 12
5.0
Outcomes .............................................................................................................................. 13
6.0
Technical scope ..................................................................................................................... 13
6.1
Key project stages ............................................................................................................. 13
7.0
Project management and governance .................................................................................. 15
8.0
Resources and limitations ..................................................................................................... 17
9.0
Communication and Community Engagement ..................................................................... 18
10.0
Reference documents ........................................................................................................... 19
11. Appendices .................................................................................................................................. 21
3
1. Introduction
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program was launched in 2006 by Professor Mick Dodson and
former Prime Minister John Howard as a forward-looking aspect of celebrating the 40th Anniversary
of the 1967 referendum.1 The following sections of the Constitution were scrutinised during the
1967 referendum:
51. The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have the power to make laws for the peace,
order, and good government of the Commonwealth with respect to:…(xxvi) The People of any race, other than the aboriginal people in any State, for whom it is necessary
to make special laws.
127. In reckoning the numbers of the people of the Commonwealth, or of a State or other part of the
Commonwealth, aboriginal natives should not be counted.2
This referendum saw the highest YES vote ever recorded in a Federal referendum with 90.77 percent
voting for the removal of the words ‘…other than the aboriginal people in any State…’ in Section
51(xxvi) and the whole of Section 127.3
The referendum marked a pivotal moment in history towards equality for Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people; however, social-economic disadvantage linked to discriminatory policy,
attitudes and actions continues to be the experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
today. In 2010-12 the average life expectancy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women was
73.7 years and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men was 69.1 years which still represented a
difference of ten years less than for non-indigenous women and men.4 In 2011 babies born to
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers were twice as likely as those born to non-indigenous
mothers to be of low birth weight: 12.6 percent of babies born to Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander mothers weighed less than 2,500 grams compared with 6 percent of babies born to nonindigenous mothers.5
Educationally in 2011 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were far less likely than nonindigenous people to have completed year 12 or higher qualifications: 35.9 percent of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people compared with 67.3 percent of non-indigenous people.6 With regard to
1
Reconciliation Australia, Reconciliation Action Plans, Reconciliation Australia [website]
<https://www.reconciliation.org.au/raphub/about/>, accessed 1 July 2015.
2
National Archives of Australia, The 1967 referendum-fact sheet 150, Reconciliation Australia,
<https://www.naa.gov.au/collection/fact-sheets/fs150.aspx>, accessed 1 July 2015.
3
ibid.
4
C. Holland, Close the Gap: Progress and priorities report 2015, The Close the Gap Campaign Steering
Committee 2015, p. 7,
<https://www.humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/CTG_progress_and_priorities_re
port_2015.pdf>, accessed 17 September 2015.
5
ibid., p. 16.
6
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Exploring the gap in labour market outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples, cat. no. 4102.0, ABS Ausstats, 2014,
<http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/4102.0main+features72014>, accessed 17 September
2015.
4
employment in 2011 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged between 15-64 years were
more than three times as likely as non-indigenous people in the same age group to be unemployed:
17.2 percent unemployment rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people compared with 5.5
percent for non-indigenous people.7
Progress in social indicators is widely recognised to be intrinsically linked to empowerment in the
areas of social inclusion, economic opportunities and cultural development8 which is impacted by
social attitudes including the prevalence of racism. A recent study by Beyond Blue reported that
discrimination persists in our society with one in five respondents admitting they would discriminate
against an Indigenous person in some situations and concluded the following: “discrimination
against Indigenous Australians is considered one of the most prevalent forms of discrimination in
Australia”.9 Therefore reconciliation is a process necessary to address discrimination, ensure social
equality and protect the cultural rights of Indigenous people.
The term reconciliation is now familiar to many people, increasing in prominence by the observation
of Reconciliation Week. Reconciliation is defined as:
Reconciliation is about unity and respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and
non-Indigenous Australians. It is about respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and
valuing justice and equity for all Australians.10
Reconciliation Week was first celebrated in 1996. Every year the anniversary of the referendum,
May 27, is recognised as the first day of National Reconciliation Week. The final day of the
Reconciliation Week is the anniversary of the High Court Mabo decision on 3 June 1992: This
decision ‘upheld the claim of five plaintiffs from Murray Island (Mer) that Australia was occupied by
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who had their own laws and customs, and whose
‘native title’ to land survived the Crown’s annexation’11. Between these two significant dates,
everyone is encouraged to celebrate and build on the respectful relationships shared between
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians to progress reconciliation.
Reconciliation Australia is a national independent not-for-profit organisation that promotes
reconciliation and oversees the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Program. Reconciliation Australia
aims to inspire and encourage all Australians to contribute to reconciliation and has assisted
Australian organisations to “realise their vision for reconciliation through meaningful, yet practical,
plans to develop relationships, show respect and increase opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples”.12 Local government is well positioned to advance reconciliation: “As the
7
ibid.
Jawun Indigenous Partnerships Corporation, Empowered Communities: Empowered People Design Report,
Wunan Foundation Inc., 2015, p. 19, < http://passthrough.fwnotify.net/download/975101/http://www.dpmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/publications/EC%20Report.pdf>,
accessed 1 October 2015.
9
TNS Social Research, Discrimination against Indigenous Australians: A snapshot of the views of nonIndigenous people aged 25-44 , Beyond Blue, 2014, p. 2.
10
Reconciliation Australia, loc. cit.
11
Australian Government, Reconciliation, Australian Government, <http://www.australia.gov.au/aboutaustralia/australian-story/reconciliation>, accessed 1 July 2015.
12
Reconciliation Australia, loc. cit.
8
5
level of government closest to communities, local government is well placed to lead and influence
positive changes”.13
1.1
Background
The City of Greater Bendigo recognises their responsibilities pertaining to Australia’s first peoples
that are enshrined in legislation by the State and the Commonwealth. In alignment with the
Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 the Greater Bendigo Human Rights
Charter states that Aboriginal persons hold distinct cultural rights and must not be denied the right,
with other members of their community;
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
To enjoy their identity and culture;
To maintain and use their language;
To maintain kinship ties; and
To maintain their distinctive spiritual, material and economic relationships with the land
and waters and other resources with which they have a connection under traditional
laws and customs14
In addition the Greater Bendigo City Council, under the Local Government Act 1989, has a
responsibility to “improve the overall quality of life of people in the local community”.15 The 2013
Independent Review of the City of Greater Bendigo item 47 recommended the City develop a
Reconciliation Action Plan to facilitate better engagement with and support for the local Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander community and better inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people into the wider Bendigo community.16 This item was incorporated in the City of Greater
Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-2016 Update) 3.6.3 “Promote equitable and inclusive
communities through the implementation of the Human Rights Charter across the organisation and
the development of a first Reconciliation Action Plan…”.17
The Greater Bendigo City Council also recognises that cultural and social inclusion requires
leadership and a considered strategic approach.18 At the August 2015 meeting council adopted the
governance structure for reconciliation:
1) a Governance Group: led by the Mayor, including Councillors and representatives from Dja
Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation to
progress reconciliation matters across Greater Bendigo; and
2) the nominations of Crs Rod Campbell, Barry Lyons and Lisa Ruffell to be members of the RAP
Community Reference Group.19
13
Reconciliation Victoria, Reconciliation in Local Government Action Research Report, 2011,
<http://www.reconciliationvic.org.au/user-data/Overview_Report.pdf>, accessed 1 July 2015.
14
City of Greater Bendigo, City of Greater Bendigo Human Rights Charter 2014, City of Greater Bendigo, 2014
p. 7.
15
Local Government Act (1989), p. 19.
16
Independent Review of the City of Greater Bendigo Final Recommendations, City of Greater Bendigo, 2013.
17
City of Greater Bendigo, City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-2016 Update), p. 17
18
State Government Victoria, Victoria’s Advantage: Unity Diversity Opportunity, Victoria’s Multicultural Affairs
and Citizenship Policy, 2014, p. 6
19
Greater Bendigo City Council Meeting, 5 August 2015
6
1.2
Approach
The RAP program offers an organised and consistent approach, supported by Reconciliation Australia
and Reconciliation Victoria, which the City of Greater Bendigo will use to drive improved
opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This whole community, both
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous people will ultimately benefit from the RAP,
increasing understanding, respect and improving relationships. The RAP program assists
organisations to develop business plans that document what they will do within their sphere of
influence to contribute to the reconciliation movement. The RAP outlines practical actions the
organisation will take to build strong relationships and enhanced respect between Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. A RAP also sets out the organisation’s
aspirational plans to drive greater equality by pursuing sustainable opportunities. The City’s RAP will
be a three year plan, a “living” document which will be: reviewed regularly; reported on annually to
Reconciliation Australia; and closely tracked to monitor its implementation and effectiveness.
Reconciliation Australia govern the national RAP program and their role involves; registering RAPS,
undertaking collective annual impact evaluations, the development of resources, and best practice.
The RAP program governed is a framework based around three key areas or minimum elements:
1
2
3
4
Relationships
a. A RAP working group made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
staff/stakeholders and other staff/stakeholders
b. Participation in National Reconciliation Week
Respect
a. Cultural awareness training and development for staff
b. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocols
c. NAIDOC Week celebrations
Opportunities
a. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment
b. Supplier diversity
Reporting
a. Annual reporting20
A RAP is about walking, learning and sharing together. The process of developing and implementing
the RAP is intended to:




facilitate and grow the building of relationships between the City and the local Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander communities, including the non-Indigenous community;
develop an inclusive workplace culture that promotes reconciliation
foster understanding of the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and create
spaces for shared conversations; and
ensure inclusiveness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in all council driven
processes and responsibilities.
Since the RAP program was launched, the RAP community has grown considerable, from eight
forward-thinking organisations in 2006 to 590 of Australian businesses and institutions.21 They
20
Reconciliation Australia, loc. cit.
7
include some of the largest private companies in Australia, government agencies at all levels, local
councils, not-for-profit organisations, peak bodies, small businesses, and schools and universities.
The reconciliation action of the RAPs is measured annually, the 2014 Annual RAP Impact
Measurement Report found that organisations with a RAP: employed 29,514 Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people; provided cultural awareness training to 137,934 employees; purchased $20.2
million in goods and services from over Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses; provided
54.7 million in education scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students; provided
$41.7 million of pro-bono support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and
communities; and developed 1,879 partnerships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
organisations and other orgs.22
2. Local context
2.1
Aboriginal history
The City of Greater Bendigo municipality is on the traditional lands of the Jaara Jaara people of the
Dja Dja Wurrung language community and the Taunurung peoples comprising two language groups
the Yowung-illiam and the Yeerun-illiam who are the rightful custodians. These Aboriginal language
boundaries have been defined by the Victorian Aboriginal Council of Languages (see map below).23
Following invasion by Europeans, Major Mitchell first passed through the region in 1836, the
Aboriginal people population declined due to diseases such as venereal disease and smallpox and
the many massacres that occurred on Jaara Jaara country and Taungurung lands.24 The surviving
members of the tribes were often displaced by the government and sent to missions around Victoria
such as Coranderrk Mission near Healesville. In addition the City’s recent Cultural Heritage Study
conducted in 2010 noted that the Bendigo landscape has undergone dramatic changes given the
degree of intrusion and accompanying urban development including the exhaustion of local timbers
in the woodlands that occurred following the onset of the gold rush in the 1850s.25
No greater contrast can well be imagined or described than that between the appearance of Bendigo
in 1851 and its appearance in 1891. One who had visited the valley of Bendigo prior to October 1851
and had not set eyes upon it since that eventful year would scarcely recognise a single feature of the
scene if viewing it today….. Vast areas of ground were turned over to the bedrock and rifled of their
treasures. Whole forests of great ironbark trees with the dense underwood growing among them,
quickly disappeared.26
2.2
Location and boundaries
The City is the third largest urban area in Victoria located 150 kilometres north-west of Melbourne.
City of Greater Bendigo Map
21
Reconciliation Australia, RAP Impact Measurement Report 2014, Reconciliation Australia [website], 2014, <
https://www.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/RAP-IMPACT-REPORT-Final-4.pdf>, accessed
1 July 2015.
22
ibid.
23
Victorian Aboriginal Council of Languages, Aboriginal Languages of Victoria Map, 2011
24
I. Clark, Aboriginal Languages and Clans: An Historical Atlas of Western and Central Victoria, Monash
Publications in Geography No. 7, 1990, p. 150.
25
D. Sampson, Cultural Heritage Survey (2010), Greater Bendigo City Council, 2010.
26
G. Mackay, History of Bendigo, reproduced in 2000 by Lerk & McClure, Bendigo Modern Press, Bendigo.
8
Aboriginal Languages of Victoria.
Source: Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages27
27
Victorian Aboriginal Council of Languages, loc. cit.
9
2.3
Population
The population of the City of Greater Bendigo in 2014 was estimated to be 106,971 with a predicted
population increase to 145,600 in 2031, reflecting a projected annual population growth of 1.62%
per annum until 2031.28 The 2011 census recorded 1.3% of the City’s population as being Aboriginal
and/or Torres Strait Islander29, compared to 1.5% in Regional Victoria30, and comprising of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islanders from many different nations, i.e. not traditional owners. However, it is
likely the census data significantly under-represents the local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
population due to reliance on self-identification. See Appendix 1 “Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Profile of Bendigo”.
28
.id the population experts, Population and household forecasts, 2011 to 2031, .id the population experts,
<http://www.id.com.au>, accessed 1 September 2015.
29
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census Population, Bendigo 2011,
<http://stat.abs.gov.au/itt/r.jsp?RegionSummary&region=202&dataset=ABS_NRP9_ASGS&geoconcept=REGIO
N&datasetASGS=ABS_NRP9_ASGS&datasetLGA=ABS_NRP9_LGA&regionLGA=REGION&regionASGS=REGION>,
accessed 29 September 2015.
30
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census Population 2011.
10
3. Legislative mandate
Australia has a robust legal framework to promote and protect against discrimination and the rights
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Cultural diversity and inclusion is supported by key
legislation and policies at international as well as federal, state and local government levels. Below
is an overview of key legislation and policies that government agencies are obligated to comply with
and therefore will provide the legislative foundation for the development of the Reconciliation
Action Plan.
Commonwealth
International
Australia is signatory to:
Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cwlth)
The International Convention on the
Elimination of all Forms of Racial
Discrimination 1975
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity
Act 1986 (Cwlth)
Access and Equity Strategy 1985
The Universal Declaration of Human
Rights 1948



Charter of Public Service in a Culturally
Diverse Society 1996
International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights 1966
Australian Multicultural Policy,The
People of Australia 2011
International Covenant on Economic,
Social and Cultural Rights 1966
Australian Human Rights Framework
2010
Reconciliation
Action Plan
State
Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006
Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007
Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001
Local Government Act 1989
Victorian Equal Opportunity Act Local
Government Act 1989
Victorian Multicultural Act 2011
Victorian Charter of Human Rights and
Responsibilities Act 2006
Local Government
City of Greater Bendigo Human Rights
Charter
City of Greater Bendigo Customer
Service Charter
The Greater Bendigo +25 Community
Plan
Municipality Public Health and
Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017
City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan
2013-2017
City of Greater Bendigo Economic
Development Strategy 2014-2020
11
4. Principles and Objectives
The City has a clear commitment to ensure human rights for all its residents, in the case of the RAP
the distinct cultural rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people according to the Victorian
Charter of Human Rights and Responsibility Act. The City has an obligation to foster a community
free of racial discrimination, it acknowledges, supports and embraces the benefits cultural diversity
and reconciliation brings to our municipality. The aim of developing a RAP is to focus on the process
of building relationships between the City and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities as
the core foundation for further partnerships and opportunities.
4.1
Principles
The project management team will be guided by the following overarching principles:









Inclusion: of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, organisations and
Registered Aboriginal Parties
Transparency: open two way communications with key stakeholders internal and external
and ensure clear communication of key reconciliation messages and the RAP process.
Support: to the RAP champions in their role and RAP working group members and enable
them to impart RAP information to their respective business units
Leadership: to drive the identification and implementation of reconciliation issues and
actions across our municipality
Sustainability; to drive organisational change for the City with regard to the way we
approach Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues and do business with our local
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
Holistic; To encourage a whole of organisational responsibility for reconciliation action
Quality; evidence based development of actions, timeliness of progress and monitor the RAP
program progress and outcome effectiveness.
Responsiveness: to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and to the City’s
staff regarding issues that may arise relating to the RAP process
Safety: for Working Group members to learn about reconciliation issues in a helpful
environment.
4.2
Objectives
The project objective is to develop and implement a Reconciliation Action Plan for the City of
Greater Bendigo to guide the City’s strategic approach to:






Actively engage the staff of the City to participate to the reconciliation movement
Foster positive attitudes towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Advance reconciliation within the municipality
Provide and increase opportunities for the inclusion and participation of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander residents with the City
Reduce racial discrimination
Strengthen relationships between the City and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents
12
5.0







6.0
Outcomes
Identification of emerging issues, opportunities and subsequent potential solutions within
the scope of the RAP.
The development of relationships between the City and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander community.
The identification and development of key strategies for the City’s engagement and
communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.
The identification and development of strategies to foster staff appreciation and acceptance
of issues related to the relevance of reconciliation.
The identification of potential partnership development between the Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander community and industry, arts, education and recreational areas
A literature review informing key issues surrounding reconciliation, inclusion and best
practice for developing partnerships and business plans relating the local Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander communities
A Reconciliation Action Plan that meets Reconciliation Australia’s requirements and is
registered with Reconciliation Australia.
Technical scope
The project will deliver a three year Reconciliation Action Plan. This is the City of Greater Bendigo’s
inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan. The process of developing the RAP is as important as the final
outcome. A process that embodies the engagement of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
community and strong internal and external leadership is essential for developing meaningful
strategies that are responsive to community interests and mobilise both the non-Indigenous and
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community as well as organisational support. Many of these
best practice principles are reflected in Reconciliation Australia’s minimum elements. These factors
and the intent of Council have been integrated into the governance structure for the RAP detailed
further in section 7.
The methodology will include meaningful community engagement with the Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander and non-indigenous community, gathering baseline data from within the organisation
and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, a clear communication strategy to ensure a
transparent process and a cultural awareness training component for the City’s staff.
6.1
Key project stages
Stage 1 – Establishment
This stage is important to set the groundwork and ensure quality processes and principles are
applied and risks mitigated. This stage will involve:



project planning
development of key project documents; project brief, literature review, communications
strategy, community engagement plan
establishment of the RAP governance structure: the City’s Working Group and the
Community Reference Group.
13
Stage 2 – Research
This stage involves finding out information about the City’s currently status in regards to
reconciliation. It is interested in finding out what reconciliation initiatives or practices are currently
in place, the strength of our relationship with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,
and staff awareness. This stage will involve:






an Internal audit of City plans and policies,
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employee workforce demographics
reconciliation workplace survey
review of RAP actions from other Local Government Areas
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community survey regarding relationships and
accessibility of CoGB
community consultation
Stage 3 – Analysis
This stage involves constructing meaning of information gathered in the previous section with
consideration of context and findings from the literature review. This stage will involve:
 analysis of various methods of research
 cross referencing information sources and identifying associations
 identification of themes, opportunities and needs
 collation of findings for the RAP working group and community reference group
Stage 4 – Draft Plan
This stage involves developing actions for the RAP based on the analysis of data sought and support
from the organisation and community. This stage will involve:







feedback of findings to the community reference group and working group
design of appropriate actions with the community reference group and working group
endorsement from senior management for actions
development of the RAP
consultation with Reconciliation Australia regarding compliance with RAP minimum
elements
presentation to Council about the RAP and endorsement sought for community consultation
community exhibition and consultation, included targeted presentations to relevant
stakeholders
Stage 5 – Endorsement
This stage involves the finalisation of the plan and seeking wide governance endorsement ready for
implementation. This stage will include:



review and amendments to the draft plan
design and publication
endorsement sought from Reconciliation Governance Group and Council.
14

public and organisational launch.
Stage 6 – Implementation, monitoring and evaluation
This stage involves the successful implementation of the RAP to ensure the greatest impact.



7.0
establishment of RAP monitoring group and progress reports to EMT the Governance Group
and Council
annual RAP reporting to Reconciliation Australia,
mid-plan review.
Project management and governance
The project governance structure adopted is a multi-stakeholder approach; stakeholders located at
different levels and from different domains but who are each connected by a common interest in
promoting inclusion come together as a group to optimise relations and break down barriers to
learning. A key objective of developing the RAP is to create new relationships whereby the group
forms a network and a learning alliance and is able to take collective action to address an issue
drawing on the different expertise and backgrounds of group members. This approach is an
opportunity to raise the City’s awareness of and visibility of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
community. The governance structure for the development of the RAP is as follows:
Council
Governance Group
(1)
EMT
RAP Champion
(2)
Community Reference Group
(3)
Project Control Group
(4)
CoGB Working Group
(5)
7.1. Reconciliation Governance Group.
The governance structure of the RAP falls within the City’s overall approach to reconciliation which
was endorsed by Council in August 2015. This places the Reconciliation Governance Group as the
overseeing entity for reconciliation matters. This group will be led by the Mayor including
Councillors and representatives from the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Clans Corporation (DDWACC)
and Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (TCAC) to progress indigenous reconciliation matters
15
across Greater Bendigo. Additionally, at a RAP community meeting on August 10, 2015 it was
agreed to seek permission to invite a member of the BDAC board and the local indigenous network.
7.2 RAP Champion
The role of the Champion is to be a higher level spokesperson for the RAP and advocate for the
development of the RAP at critical times. The Champion will not be involved in the hands on
development of the RAP; rather they will be regularly updated about RAP developments by the
Project Control Group. The RAP Champion is the Community Wellbeing Director.
7.3 Community Reference Group
The Community Reference Group will comprise of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
representatives and non-indigenous representatives who have an interest and commitment to
reconciliation for the City of Greater Bendigo. The development of the City’s RAP is of significant
interest to many community members. The Community Reference Group will provide the
opportunity for community influence during the development of the RAP. This structured
opportunity for participation and representation will enable group discussions and avoid issues
associated with miscommunication in the formative stages of the RAP. The functions of the RAP
Community Reference Group will be:

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


To represent the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and provide input on
identified interests, needs and experiences of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
community with the City.
To provide feedback on the methodology and processes involved in developing the RAP
To share expertise and experience on RAP development
To represent respective organisations and communities, provide feedback to peers on the
development of the RAP and communicate any ideas or concerns
To assist with community consultation and promotion of the RAP
To promote shared knowledge and understanding of the City’s commitment to reconciliation
To provide feedback on the draft document and
To provide ideas on the launch of the RAP and the design elements of the final document
This group will be led by Council, chaired by a Councillor and will meet on approximately four
occasions at project development milestones. Councillors Rod Campbell, Barry Lyons and Lisa Ruffell
have been nominated by Council to be members of the Community Reference Group. The RAP
Community Reference Group will be supported by the Project Control Group throughout the
process. Full terms of reference for this group will be developed. The process for recruitment onto
the Community Reference group will be via an expression of interest process. A number of
organisations and networks will be invited to submit an expression of interest, including: DDWACC,
TCAC and the Bendigo Reconciliation Committee.
See Appendix 2 “Draft Community Reference Group Terms of Reference”
16
7.4
Project Control Group
The Project Manager for the RAP is the Inclusive Communities Coordinator. The project will be
managed by the Community Partnerships Unit. Staff of this unit will form the Project Control Group
which will be responsible for the development, progression and quality of the RAP.
7.5
RAP CoGB Working Group
Reconciliation is a whole of organisation responsibility and affects all units and all staff. The working
group will seek membership from different units representing a cross section of the organisation.
Members will engage with their respective units and ensure a whole of organisation approach is
developed. A requirement of the RAP minimum elements state that membership of the RAP
working group is to comprise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff/stakeholders and other
staff/stakeholders. The City has no current statistics relating to the number of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait employees, however the recent culture survey conducted in early 2015 reported that three
respondents identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. In the event that no Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander employees participate in the Working Group the City will seek the external
involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as recommended by Reconciliation
Australia.
The Greater Bendigo community has a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who
have expertise in working in organisational reconciliation. Expressions of interest for both internal
and external members of the working group will be sought and decided upon by the Project Control
Group. The function of the working group is to:





Provide guidance and assistance to the Project Control Group to ensure the project fulfils its
objectives
Review and provide feedback on key project documents such as the project brief, the
communication plan, and the community engagement plan
Represent respective units and promote the RAP within their respective units
Assist with undertaking an organisational audit and seek feedback from respective units
Contribute to the development of RAP actions and review actions identified through
consultation for inclusion in the Plan.
See Appendix 3: Draft Project Working Group Terms of Reference
7.6
Project Implementation
For project activity implementation timeframes please refer to the RAP Gannt Chart. See Appendix
4: RAP activity Implementation Schedule. This implementation schedule will be reviewed at Project
Control Group meetings on a regular basis.
8.0
Resources and limitations
8.1
Budget
The project has a limited budget which impacts the available resources, particularly human. The
total budget will cover the costs of developing the plan and background reporting, community
17
engagement, limited training, the design and publication of the Reconciliation Action Plan and
launch.
8.2
Constraints
Reconciliation Australia prefers organisations to launch their RAP during Reconciliation Week
between May 27 and June 3. The development of the RAP is a recommendation from the
independent review which is required to have all actions completed by the end of the current
Council term, October 2016.
9.0
Communication and Community Engagement
The credibility of the project hinges on support and engagement from the Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander community and from within the organisation so the plan is “owned” by both staff and
the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. The governance structure provides
platforms for engagement however clear effective and ongoing communication is essential. A
communication plan that has considerations to the following audiences will be developed.
9.1
Internal Communication
This is essential to foster a clear understanding of the RAP and engage staff in the reconciliation
process. This will involve:





9.2
The Project Control Group will do a series of RAP presentations to the OLT and business
units discussing the objective and process including the Reconciliation Australia staff
survey, cultural audit and RAP working group.
Information will also be provided through the intranet, CEO Bulletin, the Insider.
The development of a series of videos regarding cultural and reconciliation issues that will
be available via the intranet.
The working group members will be a key channel of communication for information
regarding the RAP process through giving regular updates at their unit meetings to reach
as many staff as possible.
Updates to OLT on project progress and the draft report.
Communication to Councillors
This will include:




9.3
Councillor bulletin items
Briefings on project progress to the Community Reference Group
Briefings for the Reconciliation Governance Group
Ward meeting updates on RAP consultations.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities and broader community
This will involve:


Updates on the BDAC Koori grapevine newsletter
Phoenix Radio and other radio at key milestones
18





9.4
Physical presence for at appropriate community days
Community Reference Group representation in respective organisations and networks.
COGB internet site
Updates at networks such as the Local Aboriginal Network and Reconciliation Committee
Media releases
Community Engagement
Community engagement will occur throughout the development of the RAP via the Community
Reference Group. A more intense period of engagement will occur during the community
consultation phase on the draft report. A plan will be developed for this phase and will include:






Targeted consultations and presentations at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
organisations
Listening posts
General community presentation and consultation
Social media engagement
Presentations / consultations upon request
Briefings provided at Ward Meetings.
10.0 Reference documents
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing – Counts of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Australians, 2011, cat. no. 2075.0, 21 June 2012,
<http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/2075.0main+features32011>, accessed 29
September 2015.
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census Population, Bendigo, 2011,
<http://stat.abs.gov.au/itt/r.jsp?RegionSummary&region=202&dataset=ABS_NRP9_ASGS&geoconce
pt=REGION&datasetASGS=ABS_NRP9_ASGS&datasetLGA=ABS_NRP9_LGA&regionLGA=REGION&regi
onASGS=REGION>, accessed 29 September 2015.
Australian Bureau of Statistics, Exploring the gap in labour market outcomes for Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples, cat. no. 4102.0, ABS Ausstats, 2014,
<http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/4102.0main+features72014>, accessed 17
September 2015.
Australian Government, Reconciliation, Australian Government [website], 2015
<http://www.australia.gov.au/about-australia/australian-story/reconciliation>, accessed 1 July 2015.
City of Greater Bendigo, City of Greater Bendigo Human Rights Charter, City of Greater Bendigo,
2014, p. 7.
City of Greater Bendigo, City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-2016 Update), City of
Greater Bendigo, 2015, p. 17.
Clark, I., Aboriginal Languages and Clans: An Historical Atlas of Western and Central Victoria,
Monash Publications in Geography No. 7, 1990, p. 150.
19
Greater Bendigo City Council Meeting, 5 August 2015.
Holland, C., Close the Gap: Progress and priorities report, The Close the Gap Campaign Steering
Committee, 2015, p. 7,
<https://www.humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/CTG_progress_and_pri
orities_report_2015.pdf>, accessed 17 September 2015.
id the population experts, Population and household forecasts, 2011 to 2031, .id the population
experts, <http://www.id.com.au>, accessed 1 September 2015.
Jawun Indigenous Partnerships Corporation, Empowered Communities: Empowered People Design
Report, Wunan Foundation Inc., 2015, p. 19, < http://passthrough.fwnotify.net/download/975101/http://www.dpmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/publications/EC%20Repo
rt.pdf>, accessed 1 October 2015.
Local Government Act (1989), p. 19.
Mackay, G., History of Bendigo, reproduced in 2000 by Lerk & McClure, Bendigo Modern Press,
Bendigo 2000.
National Archives of Australia, ‘The 1967 referendum-fact sheet 150’, Reconciliation Australia,
<https://www.naa.gov.au/collection/fact-sheets/fs150.aspx>, accessed 1 July 2015.
Reconciliation Australia, ‘Reconciliation Action Plans’, Reconciliation Australia [website], 2015,
<https://www.reconciliation.org.au/raphub/about/>, accessed 1 July 2015.
Reconciliation Australia, RAP Impact Measurement Report 2014, Reconciliation Australia [website],
2014, < https://www.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/RAP-IMPACT-REPORTFinal-4.pdf>, accessed 1 July 2015.
Reconciliation Victoria, Reconciliation in Local Government Action Research Report 2011,
Reconciliation Victoria [website], 2015, <http://www.reconciliationvic.org.au/userdata/Overview_Report.pdf>, accessed 1 July 2015.
Sampson, D., Cultural Heritage Survey, Planning and Development Directorate, Greater Bendigo City
Council, August 2010.
State Government Victoria, Victoria’s Advantage, Unity Diversity Opportunity, Victoria’s Multicultural
Affairs and Citizenship Policy, 2014, p. 6.
TNS Social Research, Discrimination against Indigenous Australians: A snapshot of the views of nonIndigenous people aged 25-44 , Beyond Blue, 2014, p. 2.
Victorian Aboriginal Council of Languages, Aboriginal Languages of Victoria Map, 2011.
20
11. Appendices
Appendix 1:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Profile of Bendigo
Appendix 2:
Draft Community Reference Group Terms of Reference
Appendix 3:
Draft Project Working Group Terms of Reference
Appendix 4:
Project Implementation Schedule.
Appendix 5:
Stakeholder Analysis
21
Appendix 1:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Profile of Bendigo1
In 2011, 1.4% of the City ‘s population was of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent
compared to 1.5% in Regional Victoria.
While the City had a similar proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, it is important to
note that this varied across the City. Proportions ranged from a low of 0.6% in Maiden Gully to a high
of 3.8% in Long Gully - West Bendigo - Ironbark. The five areas with the highest percentages were:





Long Gully - West Bendigo - Ironbark (3.8%)
Huntly (2.4%)
North Bendigo - California Gully (2.4%)
Eaglehawk - Eaglehawk North - Sailors Gully (2.2%)
Golden Square (1.8%)
1
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2011. Compiled and presented in profile.id by
.id, http://profile.id.com.au/bendigo/home
22
Appendix 2:
Reconciliation Action Plan
DRAFT Terms of
Reference
Community Reference Group
September 2015
23
Glossary of Terms and definitions
Term
Definition
RAP Champion
An executive within an organisation to promote the
development of the RAP. The RAP Champion is the
Community Wellbeing Director.
Development of the Reconciliation Action Plan
Project
Project Manager
RAP
Reconciliation
Working Group
The CoGB Project Manager responsible for delivery of the
project according to the agreed timeline, scope and
budget, Inclusive Communities Coordinator.
Reconciliation Action Plan
Bringing together. “Reconciliation is about unity and
respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and
non-Indigenous Australians. It is about respect for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and valuing
justice and equity for all Australians.”
The CoGB Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group
1. Project Background
The City of Greater Bendigo (CoGB) is developing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The
Reconciliation Action Plan project is a demonstration of the City of Greater Bendigo’s
commitment to advancing reconciliation in our municipality. The 2013 Independent Review
of the City of Greater Bendigo item 47 recommended that the City develop a Reconciliation
Action Plan to facilitate better engagement with and support for the local Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander community and better inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
citizens into the wider Bendigo community. The Plan, although an internal document
detailing the actions and responsibilities for the staff of the CoGB, will be developed with
our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, stakeholders and organisations as
well as non-indigenous stakeholders who have an interest and expertise in the area of
reconciliation. This process is intended to embed good governance and foster positive
relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and the City ensuring a high
quality plan is produced that delivers agreed upon actions.
The objectives of the RAP for the CoGB are:
 To be inclusive of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,
organisations and Registered Aboriginal Parties.
 To drive the identification and implementation of reconciliation issues and actions
across our municipality.
 To reduce racial discrimination.
24

To drive organisational change for the City with regard to the way we approach
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues and do business with our local Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander community.
 To encourage a whole of organisational responsibility for reconciliation action.
 To raise the level of cultural awareness across the organisation.
 To strengthen organisational capacity for cultural inclusion.
The development of a RAP for the City is of significant interest to many community
members. The Community Reference Group will be established to provide a forum for
meaningful community engagement and relationship building with regard to the project’s
oversight and direction.
2. Role of the Community Reference Group
The CoGB RAP Community Reference Group will provide a temporary consultation forum
comprising non-indigenous and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants to assist
the development of the City of Greater Bendigo’s first Reconciliation Action Plan. The
Group’s role is:
 To represent the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and provide input
on the interests, needs and experiences identified by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander community.
 To provide feedback on the methodology and research processes involved in
developing the RAP.
 To support and assist with research and community consultations.
 To represent their respective organisations or sectors.
 To provide feedback to organisations and community on the development of the
RAP.
 To communicate ideas and concerns raised by organisations and communities to the
RAP Working Group.
 To promote a shared knowledge and understanding of the City’s commitment to
reconciliation.
 To discuss issues and concerns and recommend ways forward.
 To provide advice and comment on the RAP framework and priorities identified by
the RAP Working Group for the Plan.
 To provide feedback on the draft Plan
 To provide ideas on the launch of the RAP and the design elements of the final
document.
3. Community Reference Group Functions
The RAP Community Reference Group provides a forum for the CoGB to consult key
stakeholders and seek input with regard to the process, development and implementation
of the RAP. The RAP is a three year internal organisational business plan that focusses on
what the CoGB can do within its spheres of influence to contribute to the reconciliation
movement. The RAP outlines practical actions the organisation will take to build strong
25
relationships and enhanced respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
and other Australians. The RAP program is a framework based around three key areas:
respect, relationships and opportunities.
The Community Reference Group will function to:
 Provide guidance for the development of the RAP, in accordance with the agreed
project brief;
 Provide input and feedback throughout the development of the Plan
3.1. Review
The Group will provide input and comment on the project deliverables.
3.2. Advocacy
The Group members will actively support the project and act as advocates for its intent and
outcomes.
3.3. Ideas
The Group will draw on its connections and experience from within their respective areas of
expertise for how the Project can be most effectively carried out.
3.4. Declaration of a Conflict of Interest
Members have a responsibility to declare any conflict or potential conflict between their
business or professional interests, and their roles as members of the Community Reference
Group
4. Community Reference Group Operations
4.1. Term
The Reference Group will operate for the duration of the project, which is anticipated to
conclude within the 2015/2016 financial year.
4.2. Meetings
It is expected that the Reference Group will meet four times at key project milestones: date
and time to be confirmed.
4.3. Venue
Meetings will be held at the City of Greater Bendigo offices unless otherwise arranged.
26
4.4. Time involvement
Two hours per meeting.
4.5. Agenda
The Project Control Group is responsible for the preparation and circulation of meeting
agendas and attachments.
The agenda and attachments will be distributed at least 3 working days prior to the next
scheduled meeting.
Agenda items must be forwarded to the Project Manager by the close of business, 5 working
days prior to the next scheduled meeting.
Members may raise an item under ‘Other Business’ if necessary and as time permits, at the
discretion of the Chair.
Agendas will generally be structured as follows –
 Attendance (Members present and apologies)
 Actions arising from previous meeting
 Project status report
 Items for discussion
 Other business
 Next meeting details
4.6. Meeting Minutes
The Project Control Team will be responsible for supporting the meetings. A minute taker
will be provided by the Team; minutes will be circulated at least three working days prior to
a meeting and emailed to Group members.
4.7. Chairperson
A Councillor will chair the Community Reference Group.
4.8. Reporting requirements
The Group is not a decision making body but rather a reference group providing advice and
expertise: all feedback will be considered by the Project Control Group.
5. Membership
The Community Reference Group should predominantly involve people in leadership
positions (or positions of influence) to maintain a collective of strong far reaching influence,
and maintain reasonable numbers for effective meetings. The group will comprise
knowledgeable, prominent and credible members who will have an understanding and
expertise in reconciliation and a general understanding and interest in Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander history and culture, particularly within the CoGB municipality. Membership is
open; however invitations to new members should be raised and approved by the group.
27
5.1. Membership recruitment
Membership will be sought from the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Clans Corporation
(DDWCAC), the Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (TCAC), the Bendigo and District
Aboriginal Cooperative (BDAC) and other identified Aboriginal representatives and
community agencies who express an interest in participating. An invitation for expressions
of interest will be circulated through a number of networks including: the BDAC notice
board, website and newsletter; the DDWCAC notice board, website and newsletter; the
TCAC notice board, website and newsletter; advertised through the CoGB website; and the
Bendigo Reconciliation Committee network.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Invitation for Expressions of Interest circulated
Expressions of Interest received by the Project Control Group
Draft Terms of Reference emailed to prospective member
Draft TOR accepted and agreed to by the prospective member
Prospective member invited to the RAP Community Reference Group meeting
RAP Community Reference Group endorse membership
5.2. Members
Organisation/Agency/Department
Council Representatives
Name
Cr Rod Campbell
Cr Barry Lyons
Cr Lisa Ruffell
Community Elders
Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal
Corporation Representative
Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation
Representative
Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative
Representative
Bendigo Reconciliation Committee
Representative
Reconciliation Victoria Representative
Other interested parties
5.3. Term of members
Membership is for the duration of the development and launch of the RAP (anticipated to
be for a period of approximately 12 months).
28
5.4. Condition of members
The Chair is responsible for ensuring the Community Reference Group operates efficiently,
effectively and according to the Terms of Reference. The Chair will act to enable all
members have equal opportunity to contribute. In the event of the absence of the Chair
from a meeting, members present have the authority to nominate one of their members to
act as Chair.
The following qualities are expected of members:
 To be supportive of the process
 To read information provided prior to the meeting
 To provide apologies
 To send a proxy
5.5. Apologies and Proxies
Members are required to inform the Chair if they are unable to attend a meeting. Proxies
are to be considered and approved by the Chair prior to a meeting. Proxies are also to
provide relevant advice to the member represented.
29
Appendix 3.
Reconciliation Action Plan
DRAFT Terms of
Reference
Working Group
September 2015
30
1. Project Background
The City of Greater Bendigo (the City) is developing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The
RAP project is a demonstration of the City’s commitment to advancing reconciliation in our
municipality. Reconciliation is a whole of organisation responsibility and affects all units and
all staff. The RAP is a three year internal organisational business plan that focusses on what
the City can do within its spheres of influence to contribute to the reconciliation movement.
The development of the RAP is recommendation 47 of the 2013 Independent Review.
The objectives of the RAP are:
 To encourage a whole of organisational responsibility for reconciliation actions.
 To reduce racial discrimination.
 To drive organisational change for the City with regard to the way we approach
reconciliation issues and do business with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
community.
 To be inclusive of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,
organisations and Registered Aboriginal Parties, i.e., Dja Dja Wurrung Clans
Aboriginal Corporation and Taugurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation.
 To raise the level of cultural awareness across the organisation.
 To strengthen our organisational capacity for cultural inclusion.
The development of a RAP for the City is of significant interest to many community
members. The RAP, although an internal document, will be developed with our local
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, stakeholders and organisations as well as nonindigenous stakeholders who have an interest and expertise in the area of reconciliation. In
addition to an internal Working Group, a Community Reference Group will be established.
The Community Reference Group will ensure that relevant actions are developed to meet
the interests and needs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. This process is
intended to embed good governance and foster positive relationships between Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander people and the City ensuring a high quality plan is produced that
delivers agreed upon actions.
2. Role of the Working Group
The role of the City’s RAP Working Group will be to:
 Assist with organisational research relating to the City’s employees and their
understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, history and culture.
 Assist with undertaking an organisational audit relating to the inclusion of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander culture and protocols.
 Represent, consult with and provide feedback from their respective units regarding
the development of the RAP.
 Communicate any ideas or concerns raised by other employees.
 Promote a shared knowledge and understanding of the City’s commitment to
reconciliation.
 Discuss issues and concerns and recommend ways forward.
 In accordance the RAP framework and identified needs and opportunities, develop
priority actions for the RAP.
31





Consult with the RAP Community Reference Group, RAP Champion and key
stakeholders including Reconciliation Australia.
Provide feedback on the draft Plan and other project documents.
Assist, where possible, with community and organisational consultations.
Provide ideas on the launch of the RAP and assist with the launch of the RAP.
Assist with the design elements of the final document.
4. Working Group Functions
The RAP program is a framework based around three key areas: respect, relationships and
opportunities. The Working Group will provide an opportunity for the City’s employees to
take the lead in the development of reconciliation actions for the RAP.
The Group will function to:
 Provide guidance and assistance to the Reconciliation Control Group to ensure the
project fulfils its objectives.
 Provide direction and feedback throughout the development of the RAP.
 Contribute to the development of a RAP monitoring group to oversee the
implementation of the RAP.
a. Advocacy
The Group members will actively support the project and act as advocates for its intent and
outcomes.
b. Ideas and representation
The Group will draw on its connections and experience from within their respective areas
for how the Project can most effectively be carried out. Representatives from each unit will
also seek any endorsement or support required to achieve identified actions.
c. Declaration of a Conflict of Interest
Members have a responsibility to declare any conflict or potential conflict between their
business or professional interests, and their roles as members of the CoGB RAP Working
Group.
5.Working Group Operations
5.1 Term
The Group will operate for the duration of the development and launch of the RAP
(anticipated to be for a period of 9 months). The membership may be extended which will
be decided by the CoGB RAP Working Group.
5.2 Meetings
It is expected that the working group will meet monthly or as required dependent upon the
progress of the project.
32
5.3 Venue
Meetings will be held at the City of Greater Bendigo offices unless otherwise arranged.
5.4 Time involvement
Meetings will range from 1 – 1.5 hours depending on the number of agenda items.
5.5 Agenda
The Project Control Group is responsible for the preparation and circulation of meeting
notes and attachments. The agenda and attachments will be distributed at least five
working days prior to the next scheduled meeting. Agenda items must be forwarded to the
Project Control Group prior to the next scheduled meeting. Alternatively, members may
raise an item under ‘Other Business’ as time permits.
Agendas will generally be structured as follows –
 Attendance (Members present and apologies)
 Actions arising from previous meeting
 Project status report
 Items for discussion
 Other business
 Next meeting details
5.6 Meeting Minutes
There will be no formal minutes taken, however meeting notes will be recorded and
prepared by the Project Control Group reflecting key points and decisions made. The notes
will be informal and will not need to be accepted by the group at each subsequent meeting,
however corrections can be made. The notes will be circulated to all Members after the
meeting.
5.7 Chairperson
The Project Control Group will be responsible for supporting and chairing these meetings.
The Chair is responsible for ensuring the Working Group operates efficiently, effectively and
according to the Terms of Reference. In the event of the absence of the Chair from a
meeting, members present have the authority to nominate one of their members to act as
Chair.
5.8 Reporting requirements
The Working Group is not a decision making body but rather a reference and action group
and as such does not require voting protocols. There will be no formal decision making
process, different opinions are welcome and efforts will be made to reach a consensus on
issues. Recommendations and actions for the RAP will be forwarded to the Champion,
Project Control Group and/or the Community Reference Group for consideration as
appropriate. However decisions regarding the project will ultimately be made by the Project
Control Group.
33
6 Membership
The Working Group will seek membership from different units representing a cross section
of the organisation. A requirement of the RAP minimum elements state that membership of
the RAP working group is to comprise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
staff/stakeholders and other staff/stakeholders. Organisational data show there are a small
number of City employees who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. In the event
that no Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees participate in the Working Group the
City will seek the external involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as
recommended by Reconciliation Australia.
6.1 Membership recruitment
Nominations are open to any staff member who is interested in reconciliation and how it
can be a positive force for changing the culture, work practices and core business of our
organisation. Nominations will be submitted via email to the Coordinator, Inclusive
Communities. Final selection will be made by the Project Control Group based on
representation across the organisation. Potential working group members may be
approached by the Project Control Group for an expression of interest.
6.2 Members
Membership will be limited to 15 people.
5.1.
Members
Name
Title
Business Unit/Directorate
Natalie Jacobson
Co-chair
Coordinator Inclusive
Communities
Community Partnerships
Community Wellbeing
Pauline Ugle
Co-chair
Reconciliation Project
Officer
Community Partnerships
Community Wellbeing
David Lloyd
Manager, The Capital
Andrew Plant
Community Development
Officer
Capital Venues & Events
City Futures
Community Partnerships
Community Wellbeing
Samuel Johnston
Environmental Health
Officer
Leah Johansen
Organisational
Development Advisor
Environmental Health & Local
Laws
Planning & Development
People & Performance
Organisational Support
Steve Abbott
Manager Community
Partnerships
Community Partnerships
Community Wellbeing
Johanna White
HR Advisor
People & Performance
34
Name
Title
Business Unit/Directorate
Organisational Support
Richard Morrison
Contract & Project Coordination Manager
Contract & Project Co-ordination
Organisation Support
Aleisha Verwoert
North
Media and
Communications Officer
Communications & Media
Executive Services
Robyn Major
Manager Sustainable
Environment
Sustainable Environment
Presentation & Assets
Fiona Maw
Major Projects Planner
Major Projects
City Futures
Jacqui Phiddian
Project Officer
Healthy & Active Communities
Community Wellbeing
Rory White
Youth Participation Officer
Community Partnerships
Community Wellbeing
Stephanie
Armstrong
Health & Education
Consultant and Lin Oke
Executive Officer
Weenthunga Health Network Inc
Networking to enhance First
Australian health in Victoria
Kevan Horder
Aboriginal Health
Outreach Worker
Murray PHN
6.3 Term of members
Membership is for the duration of the development and launch of the RAP. Members may
decide to continue as members on the RAP Monitoring group. This is a requirement of
Reconciliation Victoria once a RAP is in place.
6.4 Condition of members
The following qualities are expected of members:
 To be supportive of the process
 To read information provided prior to the meeting
 To undertake tasks as agreed
 To be committed to attend meetings.
 To contribute to creating a respectful meeting environment
 To have an open mind and willingness to learn
 To liaise and discuss RAP processes with their respective Units.
 If unable to attend a meeting, a proxy may be sent
6.5 Special requirements
Members will be required to participate in cultural awareness training. Meeting
procedures and protocols will incorporate reconciliation considerations.
35
Appendix 4: RAP Implementation Schedule
Reconciliation Action Plan Implementation Schedule
2015
2015 Jan
FEB
March
April
May
June
July
August
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
2016 Jan
2016
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
August
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Goverance
Project control group meetings
RAP Community Reference Group
RAP Working Group
Stage 1 - Establishment
Employ a project officer
Council endorsement of RAP governance structure and nominations for leadership group
Project brief
Stakeholder analysis
Project implementation schedule
Develop TOR for RAP Community Reference Group
Basic demographic analysis
Literature review
Develop TOR for RAP Working Group and Community Reference Group
Seek EOI for external ATSI members for RAP Working Group, establish working group
Establish CoGB RAP Working Group
Communication Plan and promotional material
Reconciliation / cultural traning for OLT and working group
Stage 2 - Research
Conduct an internal audit of plans and policies and ATSI references
Review of RAP actions from other councils and best practice
Develop a checklist for audit for differenct business units based on RAP framework
Internal audit of number of ATSI employees
Conduct workplace survey from Reconciliation Australia
Development and methodology for community survey
Conduct community survey
Stage 3 - Analysis
Analysis of workplace survey / audit
Analysis of community survey
Analysis of focus group discussions
Identification of themes, opportunities, needs
Stage 4 - Draft Plan
Draft plan
Council forum
Council report and endorsement for community exhibition
Community Exhibition and consultation
Review and amend Draft plan
Consultation with Reconciliation Australia re compliance with RAP minimum elements
Stage 5 - Endorsement
Final plan endorsed by Council
Design and publication of action plan
Public Launch
Stage 6 - Implementation, M&E
RAP working group
Annual RAP Reporting due October 31
36
Appendix 5: Stakeholder Analysis
Further stakeholder identification, analysis and a full contact list will be developed and continually evolve during the project.
Stakeholder
Reconciliation Australia
Project Impact
Endorse and registers RAP
Position
Priority
External
Very High
National
Council
Endorse and support the RAP
Internal
Means
Reports, communication, final submission
etc.
Very High
Councillors on Community Reference
Group, Councillor Bulletin Items,
Councillor forum discussion /
Senior Management
Commitment to RAP actions, support staff involved in
Internal
Very High
the RAP working group and subsequent actions,
RAP champion
EMT reports
responsible for higher level institutional change
All staff
Dja Dja Wurrung Clans
Create individual responsibility and commitment
Internal
high
Feedback and interaction through working
towards reconciliation, participate in audit and other
group reps, project bulletins, videos,
RAP development process, develop an interest to
information in CEO bulletin, intranet etc
pursue reconciliation
(expanded in Comms plan)
-
Aboriginal Corporation
Identify opportunities and develop appropriate
External
actions
Local
-
Develop partnerships / agreements
-
Learn from effective engagement with other
LGA’s
-
Leader and representative within Aboriginal
High
-
Representation on the Community
Reference group
-
Project documents at Board
Meetings.
-
Presentation at Board Meeting
during draft consultation stage
37
and Torres Strait Islander people and broader
community.
Taugaurung Aboriginal
-
Clans Aboriginal
Corporation
Identify opportunities and develop appropriate
External
actions
Local
-
Develop partnerships / agreements
-
Learn from effective engagement with other
High
Representation on the Community
Reference group
-
Project documents at Board
Meetings.
LGA’s
-
-
-
Presentation at Board Meeting
during draft consultation stage
Leader and representative within Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander and broader
community.
Local Aboriginal and
-
Build on positive relationship between CoGB
External
Torres Strait Islander
and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Local
communities
communities.
-
High
-
Representative on the community
reference group
-
Consultation so actions are responsive to the
BDAC Koori newsletter project
updates
concerns, issues, and interests expressed by
-
Project Bulletin distribution list
communities.
-
Information on website.
-
Presence at community events
-
Targeted community consultation
during draft stage.
LIN
-
Effective reach to broad range of Aboriginal
External
and Torres Strait Islander and non- Aboriginal
local
and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders in
Bendigo.
High
-
Representative in project
governance structure.
-
Attendance at LIN meetings
(standing agenda item)
38
BDAC
-
Learn from other regions.
-
Expertise of government policies / approaches
-
Effective reach to many members
External
-
Representatives of Aboriginal and Torres
local
High
Representation on the Community
Reference Group
-
Strait Islander communities.
-
-
Presentation at staff meetings at key
Substantial areas of common and
stages, e.g., community
opportunities for partnerships with CoGB
consultation.
functions.
Local media
-
Promote reconciliation and the RAP,
External
including scope
Local
-
Promote the launch
General Bendigo
-
Gain community support the plan
External
Community
-
Mitigate any discriminatory comments / views
Local
Medium
Comms officer,
Media releases (comms plan)
Medium
Comms officer,
Media releases (comms plan)
or any misunderstandings.
Reconciliation Victoria
Bendigo Reconciliation
-
Provide advice and resources for
External
reconciliation in local government.
State
-
Professional networks
-
Offer support in developing the plan
-
Learn from RAPS / reconciliation in other
External
local organisations
Local
Group
-
Low
Low
-
Provide project updates
-
Attend meetings when appropriate.
-
Attend meetings when appropriate
(Cur
Contributes to a local collective reconciliation
movement.
Bendigo NAIDOC group
-
Wide reach of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
External
Low
Promote ways to engage in the project and
39
Islander and non- Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Local
provide feedback.
Islander community members interested in
reconciliation.
Government departments
-
Alignment of strategic actions
External
-
Broader support for RAP
State
Invite to consultations and to be on project
Local
bulletin lists etc,
low
Invite to provide feedback on draft
If they have a RAP, arrange a meeting to
look at what has worked.
Bendigo Heritage
Input into RAP actions in regards cultural heritage
Advisory Committee
actions
Goldfields Library
Opportunities for joint reconciliation initiatives
Internal
Low
Representation of relevant council officer
on the working group
External
low
Local
Invite to be on the community reference
group
Promote ways to engage in the project and
provide feedback.
Bendigo Tourism Board
Support opportunities
Local
Low
Associated
Bendigo Business
Support opportunities
External
phase through tourism
Low
Council
Bendigo Human
Resource Network
Seek feedback during public consultation
Seek feedback during public consultation
phase through economic development unit
Support opportunities
Low
Seek feedback during public consultation
phase through economic development unit
40