Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
Mission Australia believes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders should enjoy a quality of life with every opportunity to succeed.
Working closely with local communities - in metro, regional and remote areas, we work to address training, employment, education, child and families’ needs.
Mission Australia’s vision for reconciliation is that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of this country will be restored to a place of equity, dignity and respect.
In 2009 Mission Australia became the first welfare organisation in Australia to launch a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – a strategy to help reduce the gap in living standards between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and their fellow Australians.
Developed under the auspices of Reconciliation Australia’s RAP program and in consultation with Aboriginal employees and clients, our plan is underpinned by the themes of relationships, respect and opportunities.
Mission Australia's National Aboriginal Advisor
Since commencing in 2009, Steve Cochrane has made it a priority to build a close relationship between Mission Australia and the Aboriginal communities we work with. Steve’s people are the Gumbamberah people of South Eastern Queensland and he is well versed in the issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Australia.
"Within Mission Australia, I am exploring ways in which we can contribute to closing the gap. For many, this is the age difference between when Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal people die. This is just one area where gaps exist. Although health is the major area of need, other areas – including education and employment – are just as important in the lifestyles of future generations."
In addition to working in the community, Steve is heavily involved in the promotion of Mission Australia's Reconciliation Action Plan – to ensure that information is provided to assist staff in their individual and corporate roles in realising cultural appreciation.
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Acknowledgement of Land
Mission Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians past and present upon whose ancestral lands we are gathered today. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing relationship with the land.
Resources
ABC Online's Indigenous Language Map
Australia.gov.au - Indigenous peoples resources
ANTaR - Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation
ANTaR is the only non-Aboriginal national advocacy organisation dedicated specifically to the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Appropriate Terminology for Aboriginal Australian people
Visit the Flinders University website for a guide to appropriate language use for Aboriginal history, society, naming, culture and classification.
Australian Human Rights Commission
Questions and answers about Aboriginal people, migrants and asylum seekers.
Closing the Gap - Prime Minister's Report 2010
Following the Apology to Australia's Indigenous Peoples in February 2008, the Federal Government set six targets to close the gap in life expectancy and opportunities between Aboriginal Australians and the rest of the population - this report details progress against these targets.
Amendment to the Constitution Act 1902
Department of Aboriginal Affairs, NSW - The NSW Government has proposed an amendment to the Constitution Act 1902 (NSW), by inserting a new section recognising the first nations and people of NSW, their contributions to the state and relationship with traditional lands.
NAIDOC - National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee
NAIDOC is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and an opportunity to recognise the contributions of Aboriginal Australians in various fields. Activities take place across the nation during NAIDOC Week in the first full week of July.
National Health and Medical Research Council
NHMRC's commitment to improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is being implemented through a strategic approach based on priorities identified by Aboriginal people.
Toolkit for starting a Reconciliation group
Download a Toolkit for individuals and groups at various stages of involvement with reconciliation.
