Why do we have a RAP?
The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) is committed to reconciliation and improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the key areas of early childhood, education, training and skills, and employment and workplace relations.
DEEWR’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2009–2011 was launched on 27 May 2009 during National Reconciliation Week.
Our second RAP 2011–2014 was launched on 26 October 2011 and is a living document that builds on the successes of our first RAP. It sets out practical and defined targets that provide a framework of priorities for the next three years.
Our RAP 2011–2014 will enable us to continue developing strategies to achieve the following goals:
- a departmental culture that respects and values the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their history and culture
- a culturally capable workforce
- development of specialised recruitment pathways and employment opportunities to retain existing, and attract new, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees
- maintain and extend our working relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders.
Our RAP is built around Reconciliation Australia’s three RAP pillars – respect, relationship and opportunities. Our RAP is further defined under four key headings which makes it relevant to all DEEWR staff:
- Management, leadership and governance
- Recruitment, retention and development
- Policy and program
- External contributions
DEEWR takes a coordinated approach to embedding reconciliation into everyday business practices. The department’s Strategic Plan clearly communicates Indigenous business is everyone’s business in DEEWR which flows down into group business plans.
As a department, we believe a commitment to reconciliation is not only the right thing to do but makes good business sense; a workforce that is respectful, understanding and inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can more effectively respond to their specific needs.
Our RAP is registered with, endorsed and recognised by Reconciliation Australia. We have committed to publicly report on the progress of our RAP 2011–2014, identify clear actions and realistic targets, as well as lessons learnt.
DEEWR’s RAP vision
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are an integral part of our business and workforce; together we contribute to a productive and inclusive Australia through our commitment to reconciliation.
If you would like further information about the Reconciliation Action Plan Program, you can view Reconciliation Australia’s website at www.reconciliation.org.au.
Please view the following links for more information about the Reconciliation Action Plan
Contact us about the DEEWR Reconciliation Action Plan.