Aussie Broadband launches first Reconciliation Action Plan

Aussie Broadband has launched its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), by commissioning a piece of art from renowned Gunai artist Ronald Edwards Pepper.

The company plans to hang the artwork across all three offices to mark its formal commitment to reconciliation.

Gippsland-based artist Ronald Edwards Pepper said the painting was inspired by the GunaiKurnai culture.

“This painting is about sharing culture on GurnaiKurnai country and how can we move forward in a positive way for our next generation,” Ronald said.

“This is the Brataualung clan group that we’re sitting on and that’s what I painted, so that’s the people sitting down at the meeting place talking about culture, and educating people through stories, art and culture.”

Managing Director Phillip Britt said Aussie Broadband’s Reconciliation Action Plan is another step towards the company’s deep commitment to inclusion.

“We are keen to grow the knowledge, skills and confidence to work more effectively with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues, customers, companies and communities,” he said.

Aussie Broadband established a staff and community working group in September 2020 to develop the RAP and engage in activities to promote Aussie Broadband’s vision for reconciliation.

Phil added that the RAP is a practical plan of action built on relationships, respect and opportunities.

“Part of the joy in building this plan has been the opportunity for us to develop closer relationships with First Nations Peoples and organisations, including those working for us and their allies, the GunaiKurnai people in our home base of Gippsland, and Reconciliation Australia,” Phil said.

“We know that we have a lot to learn – and our learning will never end.”

The telco is working with local organisations GLaWAC (GunaiKurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation), Red Dust and the Wirrapanda Foundation on a range of initiatives.

There are four RAP frameworks provided by Reconciliation Australia: Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate.

Aussie Broadband has chosen to develop a Reflect RAP, which sets out the steps to prepare the organisation for reconciliation in future RAPs.

Reconciliation Australia, CEO Karen Mundine said this Reflect RAP enables Aussie Broadband to deepen its understanding of its sphere of influence and the unique contribution it can make to lead progress.

“Getting these first steps right will ensure the sustainability of future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives, and provide meaningful impact toward Australia’s reconciliation journey,” she said.

More information on Aussie Broadband’s Community Impact Initiatives can be found here.

You can view and download our full Reconciliation Action Plan here.