Townsville City Council's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) evaluation has highlighted reconciliation initiatives – such as increasing the number of Indigenous suppliers and employees – implemented by Council.
The reforms included in the RAP aim to improve diversity, culture and reconciliation actions in the workplace and during Council's projects and community engagement.
Community and Cultural Development Committee Chair Colleen Doyle said the RAP evaluation shows Council is dedicated to reconciliation with our Indigenous community.
"This Reconciliation Action Plan was implemented in 2015, and since then Council has made a number of changes to improve diversity within the workplace and reconciliation with the Indigenous community," Cr Doyle said.
"We had some fantastic initiatives throughout the year, including the Belgian Gardens Cemetery Cultural Artwork Project – which was recognised by Reconciliation Australia as one of the top five projects chosen from thousands across Australia – and our Embracing our Stories Legacy signs that recognise Traditional Owners in Townsville as part of the Commonwealth Games.
"The evaluation has given us some great feedback, and it's definitely something we will continue to work on with the recommendations for our new Action Plan.
"Council was also a proud recipient of the Minister's Multicultural Award earlier in the year, and this really demonstrates the fantastic culture being created in our workplace and our commitment to encouraging diversity."
The recommendations outlined in the evaluation will inform the 2019-2022 Reconciliation Action Plan.
