City of Melville Council has launched its Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2025-2028, reaffirming its commitment to embedding reconciliation in its everyday operations.
The Stretch RAP outlines the actions the organisation will take over the next three years to recognise and respect First Nations peoples, develop strong relationships and help overcome inequity.
“The is a great step for the City of Melville and we’re really proud to be leading the way in meaningful reconciliation and supporting better outcomes for the First Nations people,” said Mayor, Katy Mair.
“Ours is a very culturally diverse City and we embrace that as a big part of what helps makes us a vibrant and inclusive community where people enjoy a strong sense of wellbeing and belonging.
“Our reconciliation journey started more than a decade ago with our first RAP plan and this new plan, is the next big step. I’m delighted the City is spearheading reconciliation in this way and we invite the entire community to join us on this most important journey.”
Since the development of its first RAP, the Council says it has made significant progress in the reconciliation space, with key initiatives including the Place Names Melville project and Willagee Youth Drop-in program.
Looking ahead, the Council acknowledges there is still much more work to be done in this space. Key actions in the new Stretch RAP include:
- Establishment of a First Nations Advisory Group;
- Review and update the City of Melville’s Naming of Roads, Parks, Buildings and Infrastructure Policy to better accommodate First Nations names;
- Develop a culturally informed Aboriginal Cultural Protocols Policy;
- Roll out of Cultural Awareness Training across the organisation.
The Council said the comprehensive new RAP has been shaped by years of community consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents, Elders, Traditional Custodians, knowledge holders and the broader community. It will serve as a guiding framework for the organisation to make tangible change that provides better outcomes for everyone.
“The launch of our second Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan is an important milestone in the City of Melville’s work towards reconciliation,” said Council First Nations Coordinator, Aimee Ryan.
“The actions outlined are courageous and when delivered will make real tangible change for the First Nations community within the City of Melville.
“Our organisation has a deep commitment to working together to improve outcomes for the First Nations communities and the promises of this RAP requires the support and effort from all employees.
“I am honoured to walk in the footsteps of who came before me and lead the City’s First Nations team.”
For more information, visit melvillecity.com.au/reconciliation.
