FAQs

At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. – Reconciliation Australia 

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort.

In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will have the same life chances and choices as non-Indigenous children, and the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.

A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) provides an opportunity for our organisation to turn good intentions into real action and to rise to the challenge of reconciling Australia. A RAP takes a holistic approach to create meaningful relationships, enhanced respect and promote sustainable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

The RAP framework, developed by Reconciliation Australia, includes four types of RAPs, each offering a different level of engagement and support. The ‘Reflect RAP’ is the first step in this journey for the Shire of East Pilbara. It will enable us to focus on building relationships and raising awareness to ensure shared understanding and ownership of the actions and deliverables.

Organisations across Australia have their own RAP, including schools, government organisations and private businesses.

Together, they deliver tangible and sustained benefits for a reconciled future.

Reconciliation Australia is an independent, not-for-profit organisation whose purpose is to inspire and enable all Australians to contribute to the reconciliation of the nation. Their RAP Framework, in place since 2006, was established to give organisations a structured approach to advance their commitment to reconciliation, both within the organisation and in their local community. RAPs that are endorsed by Reconciliation Australia must comply with the Framework and meets its standards.

The City has sought guidance and advice from Reconciliation Australia on the most appropriate approach, and will seek endorsement from Reconciliation Australia once the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan is complete. Reconciliation Australia has provided feedback during the development of the draft RAP.

Visit the Reconciliation Australia website(External link).

There are four different types of RAP that an organisation can develop, and each type is designed to suit an organisation at different stages of their reconciliation journey.

The four RAP types (Reflect, Innovate, Stretch, Elevate) set out the minimum elements required from an organisation to build strong relationships, respect and opportunities within an organisation and community.

An Innovate RAP focuses on implementing reconciliation initiatives, as well as developing and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, engaging staff and stakeholders in reconciliation, and developing and piloting innovative strategies to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

You can read more about the four levels here on the Reconciliation Australia website(External link).

Please complete the survey online, write to the Shire of East Pilbara or call us at any time to discuss. 

Collection and use of personal information is undertaken in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles. This includes any request for feedback, which therefore doesn’t require you to disclose your identity unless you want to. You may like to review our Privacy Statement.

All feedback into the Strategy is documented. A public report will outline the community engagement activities and the participation, as well as the results of the survey. Once completed a report will go to Council. 

Developing the Strategy takes many months, and we’ll keep you informed along the way. Register your interest and we’ll send you updates throughout the development of the Strategy. You’ll also find information on Your Say East Pilbara, our new community engagement portal. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook.

If you have any questions email admin@eastpilbara.wa.gov.au or call (08) 9175 8000.