During NAIDOC Week 2022, we launched our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (2022–2024).
The Baker Institute’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) formalises our ongoing commitment to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, engage staff in reconciliation and continue our innovative program of health research that aims to benefit the lives of all Australians.
The RAP was developed by a working group of Baker Institute staff and students, in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, community members and the Institute’s leadership team.
It includes practical actions that drive our contribution to reconciliation and highlights the extensive work that we do to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous communities in Central Australia and throughout the Northern Territory and beyond. Featuring commissioned artwork by Bunurong man Adam Magennis, we are proud to share this important document as we further advance our journey towards reconciliation.
The RAP program
- The RAP program is an initiative of Reconciliation Australia, which aims to advance five dimensions of reconciliation — race relations, equality and equity, historical acceptance, institutional integrity and unity — by supporting organisations to:
- Build and encourage relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities, organisations and the broader Australian community.
- Foster and embed respect for the world’s longest surviving cultures and communities.
- Develop opportunities to improve socio-economic outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
Our progress so far
Included in our Innovate RAP are several initiatives already underway at the Institute.
- Cultural awareness training sessions available to all staff.
- Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country protocols, endorsed by Traditional Owners, for Institute meetings and events.
- Acknowledgement of Country signage at all sites.
- Involvement in National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week commemorative activities.
What is reconciliation?
Reconciliation is about unity and respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It is about acknowledging the wrongdoings of the past, the impact these wrongdoings have had and continue to have on Indigenous Australians and committing to social justice, mutual understanding, respect and trust as we move forward.
To understand more, visit the Reconciliation Australia website.
Healing together
'Bunurong Goyeep' (Bunurong Feathers)
"Bunurong Goyeep are from the Bunurong clan group areas. The Goyeep are Wadjeel (the Pelican), Barraeemal (the Emu), Yanggaee (the Black Cockatoo), Tulum (the Duck), Warreeny Bunjil (the White Bellied Sea Eagle) and Tantan (the Parrot). The Goyeep colour palette represents colours and textures of Bunurong Sea Country." — Bunurong artist, Adam Magennis.