CatholicCare Victoria Tasmania

Transcription

1 Centacare Ballarat Centacare Ballarat Gippsland Gippsland Melbourne Melbourne Sandhurst Sandhurst Tasmania Tasmania Ca T Ca T Ca T Centacare Ballarat Gippsland Melbourne Sandhurst Tasmania Victoria Tasmania

2 Open Hearts Open Minds Prepared by Karen Milward Consulting Services & Francesca Gerner for OHOM Steering Committee, Victoria Tasmania About the artwork on the front and back covers In the many discussions we had during the development of this Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (Open Hearts Open Minds), we learnt that for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, symbols tell stories that the written word cannot. The symbol of the concentric circle used by the Koori People and Yorta Yorta of Victoria Australia, representing campsites or rock holes, seemed an appropriate way to depict the five participating agencies of Victoria Tasmania. We also learnt that circles made with lines depicted campfires and dotted circles - water holes.) In Tasmania, circles are the main engraved symbol, together with spirals and rows of dots and can be found in the oldest Aboriginal occupation site, Warreen, which has been dated as years old. We were fortunate to find a stock image of concentric circles that has significance in both Victoria and Tasmania and appropriately purchased it for the front and back cover of our RAP symbolising the spirit and the intent of the words it contains.

3 Table of Contents Coming together 1 Our Work 2 A shared vision 2 Our vision for open hearts and open minds with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 3 Our Reconciliation Statement and Policy 4 Statement of CCVT commitment 4 Approach to achieving our vision 4 Review & Monitoring 5 Our Action Plan 5 Beginnings 5 What we will work towards 6 Desired outcomes 6 Relationships 7 Respect 10 Opportunities 14 Tracking Progress and Reporting 16

4 Coming together "If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time; but if you are here because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together." Lilla Watson Aboriginal activist and organizer Victoria Tasmania (CCVT) is a company governed by a constitution, formed in 2011 to bring together the shared expertise, resources and leadership of the four Victorian Agencies, Centacare Ballarat, Gippsland, Melbourne, Sandhurst and the Tasmanian agency Tasmania. The Board comprises the CEO of each agency plus three skilled & experienced community representatives. The Board is responsible for the effective administration/delivery of programs/services funded by the Australian Government, ensuring value for money and providing informed recommendations to Governments and funding bodies. The combined entity, CCVT is able to pursue a common purpose with greater stability. As each agency provides similar and/or overlapping services, through CCVT, it is possible to streamline service delivery, eliminate duplication and waste and solve any confusion of identities that might exist amongst stakeholders. combines its strengths with the other agencies and no longer competes for funding dollars. This is seen as the best way to expand services and pursue a sustainable future. Through its participating agencies, CCVT aims to assist all people in Victoria and Tasmania to be the best that they can be. Services are for all members of the community regardless of age, belief, cultural background, economic circumstances, gender, and lifestyle choice. You can learn about each agency by visiting their websites: Centacare Ballarat (CCB) Gippsland (CCG) Melbourne (CCM) Sandhurst (CCS) Tasmania (CCT) CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 1

5 The following table is a brief staffing profile of the staff in each participating agency Agency/Organisation Total number of staff (whole of agency) Total number of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Staff CCVT 0 0 CCB CCG 7 0 CCM CCS 55 1 CCT Our Work A shared vision Those who lose Dreaming are lost Australian Aboriginal proverb We have all agreed to work together to achieve outcomes by undertaking nominated actions as stated in this Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure there is an opportunity to create a welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities who access our services and programs in Victoria and Tasmania. We recognise the benefits of sharing common goals and acknowledge that the local cultural values, practices and protocols of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples must be reflected in the work we do in each of the communities where we are located. Ballarat Sandhurst Gippsland Melbourne Tasmania We also acknowledge the good work that has already occurred in each agency to have close working relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their organisations. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 2

6 Our vision for open hearts and open minds with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples My invitation to everyone is that in your everyday power, in your work place with your regular authority, with your everyday resources; turn your mind occasionally to what you can do, for the benefit of all Aboriginal people. Victoria Tasmania: Prof Michael McDaniel, Wiradjuri Man acknowledges the important contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples make in creating a strong and vibrant Australian society pays respect to the Traditional Owners and Custodians in Victoria and Tasmania and acknowledges the strong leadership provided by current and past Elders recognises that our pathway ahead must be based on close, respectful and collaborative working arrangements with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and representatives of their services and organisations acknowledges the benefits of learning more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, values and beliefs as well as ensuring our staff have the confidence to deliver culturally responsive services. The Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan has been prepared as a guide to strengthen and enhance each participating agency s engagement and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities. Our shared journey ahead will present its own challenges and rewards over time. We commit to championing all the actions in the Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan and that we will be a part of this journey wherever we are. Each agency has established strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in many of the communities where we have a presence. We hope that these individual, family and community relationships will flourish further as a result of the vision and goals we have set ourselves as part of the Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan. Our journey of healing will bring us closer to each other over time as more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples take up employment and other opportunities with the participating agencies of Victoria Tasmania. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 3

7 Our Reconciliation Statement and Policy Statement of CCVT commitment The Victoria Tasmania (CCVT) vision for reconciliation is based on our recognition of the ongoing harm done to families and communities by past social policies and practices, and a desire to work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities to enhance the wellbeing, safety and resilience of Australian children, families and communities. Approach to achieving our vision This policy outlines the approach that CCVT will take to achieve this vision in our work. CCVT participating agencies will promote respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations. In Victoria and Tasmania, we will strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community leaders and organisations. Participating agencies will be encouraged to build on relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples within their area of operations, and develop their role in decision making and service planning for agency operations. CCVT will ensure ongoing development of cultural competency in agency staff and Boards through regular training and learning opportunities. CCVT will promote and develop positive practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and families, which: Are developed in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations. Recognises the ongoing harm done to families and communities by past practices and policies, and the cumulative impact of disadvantage on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families of low income, poor health, inadequate housing, and inappropriate and inaccessible support services. CCVT will promote the engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders families with services by promoting access and comfort within agency premises, and encouraging opportunities for out-posting of services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders controlled organisations. CCVT will demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Torres Strait Islander cultures and leadership by ensuring that all appropriate CCVT events and participating agency events include: A Welcome to Country or Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners and Custodians. Content relevant to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders communities. Involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders communities in event planning and delivery. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 4

8 Celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders cultures and heritages wherever appropriate. CCVT will encourage participating agencies to provide employment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples. It will support this by convening an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and Torres Strait Islander practitioner network, as well as recommendations for any required enhancements to staffing policies and organisational practice. Review & Monitoring An Action Plan will be developed to reflect this policy, which includes measurable targets. The plan will be developed in conjunction with at least two partners from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander controlled organisations on a biannual basis and will be monitored. An annual report against actions and targets is to be prepared for the consideration of the CCVT. (Note: This policy draws on the FRSA Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), 2010.) Our Action Plan Beginnings With sustained commitment, we can be the generation that closes the gap. Mick Gooda, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island er Social Justice Commissioner, and Kirstie Parker, the co-chair of the National Congress of Australia's First Peoples During 2014, a CCVT Steering Group was formed to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan. An Aboriginal consultant, Karen Milward, was engaged to ensure that we develop culturally appropriate solutions focused on addressing the issues confronting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their communities. A Steering Committee was formed consisting of representatives of each of the participating agencies and a CCVT Board representative. The Grant Agreement and Networks Support Manager agreed to champion the development of the RAP internally and liaise with external stakeholders as required. Under the guidance of Karen Milward, CCVT conducted its first cultural awareness inventory which identified that each agency was at a different level and was faced with different challenges. This was to provide valuable input for the actions to come from the completed plan. Ensuing discussions enabled a framework to be developed where the CCVT s Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan would provide the umbrella from which each participating agency would construct a locally based Reconciliation Action Plan. Representatives from National and State based Aboriginal organisations were approached to participate in the development of the plan. CCVT s Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan will be launched appropriately in CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 5

9 What we will work towards Desired outcomes We recognise, acknowledge and value the spiritual beliefs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples which have been practiced in Australia for over 40,000 years. We also have great respect for the rich cultural diversity and contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians make to our Christian faith every day. We recognise the importance of ensuring that services provided are consistent with the principles of Catholic Social Teaching which offer moral principles and truths that resonate with people of all faith traditions and provide a framework for the integral growth of all people. Our Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan is built on this framework. It provides us with a roadmap showing how we can improve the way our participating agencies work individually and as a collective to strengthen our relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who access and participate in the services and programs of our participating agencies. It also sets realistic achievable actions that we can measure and report on as part of our implementation process. Who/What (the target subject) Change/Desired effect (action verb) In what (expected results) By when All Boards actively supports the promotion and public endorsement of the Recognise Campaign that is seeking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Constitutional recognition whenever appropriate opportunities arise All Boards and staff of participating agencies complete and embed cultural awareness training and provide support to others to apply their learnings December 2015 and refresher training is undertaken each new strategic plan All Boards ensure and endorse each participating has an appropriate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access strategy / Reconciliation Action Plan aka Open Hearts Open Minds plan in development December 2015 Directors of participating agencies commit to increase the number of employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples December 2015 and reviewed Directors of participating agencies to ensure all agency outlets are culturally safe and acknowledge Traditional Owners and Custodians December 2016 CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 6

10 Victoria Tasmania recognises that it will take time to achieve these outcomes. We believe that the successful implementation of these actions will enhance the work we do with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities throughout Victoria and Tasmania. Our shared vision to create strong, vibrant and resilient organisations with a focus on meeting the needs of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are based on learning more about our shared histories while also knowingly taking into account the challenges resulting from past and current government policies. What follows are the focus areas of our plan. Each participating agency of CCVT will develop a unique plan of their own guided by the nominated actions and within the timeframes provided. Relationships Focus Area: We will develop relationships that confirm and demonstrate our respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, values, beliefs, practices and local protocols. Action Responsibility Timeline Target Reinforce respectful and strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community leaders and organisations Chief Executive Officer By June 2016 Working group will have Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples representation actively participating in the design & implementation of the local Plans Active participation by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in OHOM events and activities. Invitations to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to participate in key Agency events and activities. Seek participation from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Agency s OHOM planning and implementation. Seek advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities on Agency s OHOM Aboriginal protocols CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 7

11 Action Responsibility Timeline Target By June 2016 Develop a list of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled organisations within our sphere of influence March, Strengthen our relationships Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations by: Looking at possibilities to facilitate joint funding opportunities for out-posting/co-locating services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled organisations. March, Will consider opportunities to support and be involved with policies and programs that influence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples related to our core business. March, Keeping up to date on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agendas by subscribing to media such as: Koori Mail SNAICC E-Bulletin Develop promotional material and ensure that written content is relevant and appropriate to reflect the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities (i.e. policies, strategies, marketing material, guidelines and program documentation, etc.). Marketing & Communications Manager or equivalent within each agency March Promotional material and written content is relevant and appropriate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 8

12 Action Responsibility Timeline Target The OHOM Steering Committee continues to actively monitor RAP development, including implementation of actions, tracking progress and reporting. Grant Agreement Manager April, November Steering Committee (SC) oversees the development, endorsement and launch of this RAP and each agency representative acts as the internal, local champion(s). Meet at least twice per year to monitor and report on RAP implementation. Celebrate National Reconciliation Week (NRW) by providing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees and other employees to build relationships. Marketing & Communications Manager or equivalent within each agency 27 May 3 June for NRW Annually Provide each agency with the National Reconciliation Resource Kit (updated ) and support staff to engage in at least one activity Organise at least one internal event each year that promotes cultural understanding Display the National Reconciliation Week Poster in each agency/location Each agency/location to participate in at least one activity during National Reconciliation Week CCVT will identify which agencies are leading the way towards improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities at the local level. Marketing & Communications Manager or equivalent within each agency December 2015 Case studies are written, successful outcomes are documented and shared across the organisation. Facilitate joint funding opportunities for outposting/co-locating services to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCO). Refer Operations Director or equivalent within each agency December, A formal arrangement is in place with ACCOs where appropriate and agreed. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 9

13 Respect Focus Area: We will demonstrate leadership and support opportunities to better understand and have respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their histories and their place within Australian society as First Nation peoples. Action Responsibility Timeline Target Promote the engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in our services by creating a welcoming environment. CEO February Engagement with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations and/or communities to conduct an environmental scan of each of CCVT s agencies premises/locations and implement the recommendations wherever possible. Acknowledgement Plaques identifying the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the local area will be displayed at each office/location ensuring that all clients can identify the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land. The Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag will be displayed at the reception areas of each site and flown at sites where appropriate. Agency s events will demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures Marketing and Communications Manager or equivalent in each agency February A Welcome to Country or Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners and Custodians at opening of events. Involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in event planning and delivery. Written and verbal content is relevant to both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 10

14 Action Responsibility Timeline Target Establish culturally appropriate practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families Agency leads Agency documents developed by December 2016 Reviewed March every 2 years Each agency develops a culturally appropriate practice document in collaboration with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations and reviewed every 2 years The developed document recognises the ongoing harm done to families and communities by past practices and policies, as well as the cumulative impact of disadvantage on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families of low income, poor health, inadequate housing, and inaccessibility to appropriate support services. Engage employees in understanding the protocols around Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country ceremonies to ensure there is shared meaning behind the ceremonies. Agency leads June Develop, implement and communicate a protocol document for each agency. Agency leads June Identify at least one significant event for which a Welcome to Country from a Traditional Owner will be included. Marketing and Communications Manager or equivalent in each agency January 2016 Statement of Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners and Custodians of the Land and Waters on agency websites. Agency leads July 2015 Statement of Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners and Custodians and Custodians of the Land and Waters is included in signatures for all staff. Agency leads January 2016 Statement of Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners and Custodians of the Land and Waters is included in all public documents and publications. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 11

15 Action Responsibility Timeline Target Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to engage with cultures and communities cultural events e.g. NAIDOC Week events. Human Resources of each agency January 2016 Review HR policies and procedures to ensure there are no barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff participating in NAIDOC Week and other cultural events. Operations Director or equivalent within each agency Jan 2016, Agencies will develop a cultural leave policy under the Employees Enterprise Agreement that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to participate in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events of significance and take ceremonial leave for sorry business. Human Resources of each agency Human Resources of each agency Jan 2016, Jan 2016, Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to participate in local NAIDOC Week events. Staff actively participates in key activities and events celebrated within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within agencies sphere of influence. Marketing & Communications Manager or equivalent within each agency first full week of July for NAIDOC week Display the National NAIDOC Poster or other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander posters in each agency/location CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 12

16 Action Responsibility Timeline Target Marketing & Communications Manager or equivalent within each agency first full week of July for NAIDOC week Each agency/location to participate in at least one activity during NAIDOC week Ensure ongoing development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness and competency in Agency Boards and staff through regular training and learning opportunities. CEO June 2016, Board members and staff in each location participate in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness and competency training. Develop a cultural awareness training strategy as a faceto-face training session CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 13

17 Opportunities Focus Area: Strengthening the services by providing employment and professional development opportunities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples so they can contribute to our shared spiritual journey. Action Responsibility Timeline Target Investigate opportunities within CCVT to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment opportunities. CEO July 2016, Vacancy notices have a specific reference about jobs being open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. August 2016, Recruitment policies encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to apply for positions within Agencies. September, 2016, Review HR procedures and policies to ensure barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees are able to be addressed. October 2016, Engage with existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to consult on employment strategies, including professional development. December, 2016 Where possible, advertise vacancies in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media. Participating agencies actively seek training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For example: provide work experience and skills development opportunities. Human Resources of each agency June 2016, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are working for services, e.g. Scholarships in schools Traineeships for young people Work and student placements CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 14

18 Action Responsibility Timeline Target Opportunities are available at each service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to gain work experience and on-the-job-training. Establish a Practitioner network with a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander best practice within each agency and identify enhancements to staffing policies and practice. Operations Director or equivalent within each agency July 2016 The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Practitioner Network meets three times a year in Victoria and Tasmania. Agencies will seek to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and businesses in its procurement process/contracts. CEO and Director of Corporate Services or equivalent June 2016 July 2016 Review and redress any identified barriers in procurement policies to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. Investigate becoming a member of Supply Nation or partnering with your local Indigenous Chamber of Commerce August 2016 Educate staff about using Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. December 2015 Develop at least one commercial relationship with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business (e.g. hiring caterers, venues, consultants, trainers, etc.) CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 15

19 Tracking Progress and Reporting Action Responsibility Timeline Target OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan implementation from 2015 to Grants Agreement Manager + OHOM Steering Committee December 2015, June 2016, OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan progress is reported each year in the OHOM Impact Measurement Questionnaire. CCVT s OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan Steering Committee meets to review progress of the Reconciliation Action Plan implementation twice a year. Grants Agreement Manager + OHOM Steering Committee June and December each year. Review of the OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan feedback provided. OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan implementation gaps and issues are identified. Undertake a Cultural Audit of CCVT. Grants Agreement Manager + OHOM Steering Committee December Cultural Audit undertaken including recommendations and actions. Include OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan progress reports to agency staff and in the various Annual Reports. Agency Leads Octoberpublication, Staff meetings receive progress reports. OHOM Reconciliation Action Plan updates are included in the Annual Reports. Report achievements, challenges and learnings to Reconciliation Australia for inclusion in the Annual Impact Measurement Report. Grants Agreement Manager + OHOM Steering Committee September Complete and submit the RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia. Review, refresh and update RAP Include Responsibility August 2017 Review, refresh and update RAP based on learnings, challenges and achievements. CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 16

20 Send draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for formal feedback and endorsement. Agency lead for OHOM CCVT Board Representative Centacare Ballarat Mr Peter Richardson Executive Director, Sandhurst & Member CCVT Board Ms Deanna Davis, General Manager, Families & Community Services Gippsland Ms Lisa Cook Senior Manager, Eastern Region Melbourne Ms Maria Bohan, Service Development Manager Sandhurst Mr Nicholas Haney, Regional Manager, Goulburn-Murray Tasmania Ms Georgina McLagan, Director For public enquiries about Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan Ms Francesca Gerner, Grant Agreement Manager & Networks Support CCVT Open Hearts Open Minds Reconciliation Action Plan - Innovate Page 17

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