The City of Onkaparinga has announced the launch of its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
The RAP is an important step in strengthening relationships between First Nations people and non-Indigenous people in the region, for the benefit of everyone.
The council worked closely with its First Nations People Advisory Group (FNPAG), Neporendi Aboriginal Forum Inc., Reconciliation SA and Reconciliation Australia to develop the plan.
The Reconciliation Action Plan (Reflect) 2022–24 aligns with Reconciliation Australia’s National Framework, which has four stages of reconciliation: Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate.
In this initial Reflect RAP, the council will build mutual relationships, grow cultural understanding, and develop a clear vision for reconciliation in the region.
Under the plan the council will develop the foundations to increase and support First Peoples’ employment in the council and diversify its supplier base so more services and products come from First Nations suppliers. It will also deliver cultural training and knowledge among council staff.
The RAP builds on council’s previous work with Onkaparinga’s First Peoples including connection with the Kaurna Yerta Aboriginal Corporation, partnerships with the Neporendi Aboriginal Forum Inc. and Joining Hands and Minds Taskforce, as well as hosting events to mark Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.
Acting Mayor Simon McMahon said he was proud the RAP would be implemented in the wake of recent positive change to recognise and work with First Nations communities in the region.
“I’m excited about the possibilities around better acknowledging and supporting First Nations connection to Country,” he said.
“We still have a lot of work to do to achieve a just, equitable and reconciled Onkaparinga, but recent achievements such as the establishment of the FNPAG, renewal of the Tjilbruke Dreaming Track marker plaques, and protection of the Aldinga Washpool put us in great stead for the future.
“The area we now call City of Onkaparinga always was, and always will be, under traditional First Nations’ custodianship.”
Developing the RAP is a key action of Onkaparinga’s Community Capacity Strategic Plan 2021–24.
The council will progress to an Innovate RAP in 2024 to go deeper into its shared reconciliation journey.