Bridging now to next: A journey of Reconciliation

I write this blog with deep respect from the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, acknowledging their enduring connection to this land, and paying my respects to their elders, past, present and emerging.

This National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), with the theme Bridging Now to Next, we are reminded of the important work ahead of us on the journey of Reconciliation. This theme encourages us to look to the future while learning from the past, taking actions towards a more just, inclusive and equitable Australia.

Since the disappointment of 2023’s Voice to Parliament referendum result, the path to justice and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has seen both progress and setbacks. While governments at all levels can waver in their commitment to Reconciliation, Mission Australia stands firm in its support.

As one of Australia’s largest community services and housing charities, we have more than 140 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and serve nearly 28,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients each year. For us, Reconciliation is not a side project — it is at the heart of the work we do every day.

Our dedication to advocating for self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people goes beyond words. It’s reflected in our work to address issues like homelessness and juvenile justice, which disproportionately affect these communities. We believe in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, so they have choice and control over the decisions that impact their lives.

Reconciliation is not a straight path. It requires us to confront both the challenges we’ve faced, and progress we’ve made. A key part of this journey is truth-telling and truth-hearing, where we actively listen to the stories and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Acknowledging difficult truths is fundamental to building the trust necessary for Reconciliation and for recognising the rights, culture and dignity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The National Reconciliation Week theme artwork, by Kalkadoon artist Bree Buttenshaw, symbolises resilience and growth. Featuring native plants like lemon myrtle, banksia and kangaroo paw, the artwork reminds us of the strength and renewal that can emerge through adversity. This artwork serves as a powerful symbol of our Reconciliation journey —nurturing growth and overcoming challenges together.

At Mission Australia, the theme of Bridging Now to Next resonates deeply with the shifts we’re making, including moving from cultural awareness to cultural confidence. This includes a focus on creating culturally safe spaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people feel welcome and can thrive, and where hard truths are heard, understood and acted upon. We are committed to building cultural safety within our organisation, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

That’s why we are also ramping up cultural awareness training, creating safe spaces for difficult conversations, and ensuring Mission Australia is a place where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have opportunities for leadership, collaboration and decision-making.

Through our new Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we will continue to prioritise the resilience and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to advocating for changes that support their rights and aspirations, and to ensure their voices are heard at all levels of decision-making.

National Reconciliation Week is a time for reflection and action. Reconciliation is a daily commitment, and at Mission Australia, we are dedicated to working toward a reconciled Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are equal partners in shaping the future. Let’s embrace the theme of Bridging Now to Next as a call to strengthen our resolve, bridge gaps, confront inequities and ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have what they need to lead their best lives.

Together, we move forward towards a reconciled Australia. .

Photo of Sharon, CEO of Mission Australia.