MacKillop Family Services (MacKillop) is proud to announce the launch of its second Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) on Monday 13 February 2023. The launch of the RAP takes place to coincide and acknowledge the 15th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations and the healing journey of Aboriginal People.
This second RAP has strong themes of prevention and healing and will run from February 2023 to January 2025. It builds on the significant outcomes of MacKillop’s inaugural RAP, which was introduced in 2020.
MacKillop is committed to developing meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and this second RAP will provide guidance on the next phase of its reconciliation journey.
Dr Robyn Miller, MacKillop’s CEO, says the launch of the second RAP is a significant step for MacKillop in the organisation’s commitment to reconciliation.
“We’re excited that this second RAP will help us build on the foundations we’ve laid and bring us further along our journey to reconciliation. We have listened and consulted widely, and we’re committed to acting on what we have heard.
“Informing policy and culture, this second RAP will guide us to continue our development as a culturally safe, and welcoming organisation, where all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities will be heard and respected. It will help us achieve one of MacKillop’s key strategic goals, which is to deepen our commitment to Aboriginal self-determination, reconciliation, and cultural safety.”
Dr Miller added, “We are ever grateful to the Aboriginal communities, Elders and leaders who are guiding us on this process and who are working with us to achieve the best outcomes for all the children, young people and families we work with”.
MacKillop’s National Director for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Service Development, Esmai Manahan, a Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara woman has worked alongside the Aboriginal community to guide the development of MacKillop’s second RAP.
“Implementing our second Innovate RAP strengthens our approach to driving reconciliation and healing through all our activities and community programs, and nurtures relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations.
“Working together with communities and always listening deeply to their stories is key to developing strong and meaningful relationships. Respect and collaboration enable us to work with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to deliver culturally safe and empowering programs that support Aboriginal families to stay together, and children to thrive in community and culture.”
While MacKillop has implemented many of the actions outlined in its first RAP, this second Innovate RAP will further enhance reconciliation and change by acknowledging lessons learnt; listening to and advocating for children, young people and families; developing strong partnerships; focusing on prevention and healing, celebrating culture; and embedding culturally responsive and competent practice across the organisation.
Following the launch, MacKillop’s second Innovate RAP will be available at www.mackillop.org.au/RAP
