The next step for Reconciliation
Bayside City Council adopts Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan
We've endorsed our inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, taking the next step for reconciliation in Bayside.
The Action Plan will strengthen relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the general community and focuses on engaging staff and stakeholders in reconciliation and developing and piloting innovative strategies to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Mayor, Cr Alex del Porto said the journey to reconciliation is ongoing and requires continuous learning and reviewing.
“Commitments within the plan will allow Council to be aspirational and innovative in establishing the best approach to advancing reconciliation,” Cr del Porto said.
“To achieve this we will continue to work closely with the Traditional Owners, the Aboriginal Community and the wider Bayside community to build best practice as we move toward reconciliation for all.”
The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan was informed by Traditional Owners, our External Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Committee, our Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the wider Bayside Community.
“As a Council, we are committed to making Bayside a diverse, healthy and liveable place for all by engaging with our diverse communities to improve access and inclusion in Bayside,” Cr del Porto said.
Launched during NAIDOC Week, the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan will be reviewed annually and reported to Council, to ensure relevance and to respond to the changing needs of the Bayside community.
Read Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan
Bayside's Reconciliation Action Plan launch event
On Wednesday 6 July, as part of NAIDOC Week, we held an event to celebrate the adoption of our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.
Thank you to everyone who came along. Representatives from the Bunurong Land Council, Bunurong Elder Sonia Weston and Daniel Weston undertook a Smoking Ceremony and there was a musical performance by Indigenous artist Jessie Lloyd from the Mission Songs Project.
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Community Grants for cultural events
Bayside not-for-profit community groups are invited to apply for grants of up to $1000 to host events to celebrate cultural events including events related to progressing reconciliation in Bayside.
Community groups such as kindergartens, scout groups, sporting clubs and community centres are encouraged to consider running a community event.
Ideas include:
- Welcome to country
- Smoking ceremony
- An art class or exhibition with an Indigenous artist
- Indigenous food tasting
- Indigenous tree planting
- An education session on local Indigenous topics of interest.
Cultural event grants are open all year round.
