Extent embarks on our Reconciliation Action Plan

As we’re in the midst of National Reconciliation Week, this year also marks twenty years of Reconciliation Australia shaping Australia’s journey towards a more just, equitable and reconciled nation. It’s also the twentieth anniversary of the reconciliation walks of 2000, when people came together to walk on bridges and roads across the nation and show their support for a more reconciled Australia.

At Extent, we’re also embarking on a very important project and that’s our Reconciliation Action Plan, often referred to as a RAP.

Why is a RAP important?

Much has happened since the early days of the people’s movement for reconciliation, including greater acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights to land and sea; understanding of the impact of government policies and frontier conflicts; and an embracing of stories of Indigenous success and contribution.

With all this said, there’s still further to go.

Extent Heritage are embarking on a 12 month program to design and implement our ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan. There are four types of RAP that an organisation can develop: Reflect, Innovate, Stretch, Elevate. Each type of RAP is designed to suit an organisation at different stages of their reconciliation journey.

A Reflect RAP in particular focuses on Extent continuing to scope and develop relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. It will take us on a journey to clarify our vision for reconciliation, focus on how we can be positive ambassadors in the broader community, and commit to specific actions and initiatives. We plan on having this journey completed in time for the 2021 National Reconciliation Week and from there will continue to develop further RAP’s around meaningful action.

RAPs are making a difference across Australia in workplaces, universities, schools, government and community organisations. For more information on how a RAP can help your organisation be part of this journey, see the website here.

What is National Reconciliation Week?

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

The dates for NRW remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.

Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.