Formal reconciliation journey

yourtown started its formal reconciliation journey by developing and implementing a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in 2017. Followed by launching our Innovate RAP from 2019 – 2021, and on 24 August 2023, we launched our Stretch RAP 2023-2026. 

Since the start of yourtown's inaugural RAP, our achievements have led to a cultural shift throughout the organisation in which we proactively promote and integrate Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultures—by increasing meaningful Acknowledgements of Country in daily work, engaging local Elders in Welcome to Country and sharing their knowledge and customs, establishing service delivery partnerships, and using endorsed language and visual and digital arts.  

By engaging in meaningful and respectful partnerships, yourtown demonstrates its dedication to acknowledging and addressing the historical injustices Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face. The RAP encourages cultural awareness, inclusivity, and the promotion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society while enhancing yourtown's social responsibility and reputation. 

As an organisation, yourtown has ambition; and their drive to do their best for children, young people, and our communities is evident every day in how their services and supports are delivered and how team yourtown shows up. That ambition to be more, do more, and ultimately achieve more with young people is why their RAP journey is so important to them. yourtown acknowledges that they can only achieve their ambition with humility to accept that we must take that journey with others. They must lean into seeking out knowledge, respecting those who share it with us and applying and using the wisdom and guidance they impart.  

Their commitment to the mission requires of them to accept the challenges presented with determination and grace and the knowledge that they don't seek to succeed in their goals for themselves but for the greater good.  There is much to be proud of in what yourtown has achieved and much to be excited about in what they will achieve through reconciliation.