City of Melville community development officers Leanne Woods and Shahna Rind with Aboriginal filmmaker Karla Hart.
Camera IconCity of Melville community development officers Leanne Woods and Shahna Rind with Aboriginal filmmaker Karla Hart. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

City of Melville’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan a first for WA councils

Headshot of Josh Zimmerman
Josh ZimmermanMelville Gazette

CITY of Melville continues to carry the torch for cultural harmony after becoming the first local government in WA to release a Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The Stretch RAP aims to provide learning opportunities and resources for increased understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) history and culture, create opportunities for staff and the ATSI community to develop relationships through shared events and engagement and provide employment and economic development initiatives for ATSI peoples and businesses.

Melville Mayor Russell Aubrey said the City was delighted to take the next step on the journey to reconciliation.

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“The Stretch RAP demonstrates the City’s continuous commitment to improving relationships, opportunities and respect, in our efforts to reconcile our community,” he said.

“This plan allows Melville to delve deeper into the reconciliation process and focus on implementing longer-term strategies, and challenges us to work towards measurable targets and goals to demonstrate commitment to reconciliation within the community and workplace.”

Reconciliation Australia chief executive Justine Mohamed congratulated the City on its commitment to reconciliation.

“The City of Melville is a leading advocate for reconciliation, and is demonstrating a deep dedication to making progress across the key pillars of the RAP program – respect, relationships, and opportunities,” she said.

For more information or to view a copy of the Stretch RAP visit www.melvillecity.com.au/rap.

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