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Reconciliation Action Plan

Reconciliation Action Plan

Developing Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

The Shire of Harvey is developing its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – a formal commitment to practical actions that strengthen relationships, show respect, and create opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Our RAP will guide how the Shire works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, community members, and organisations across the region. The RAP does this by providing a framework of practical actions for the Shire of Harvey to centre  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, acknowledge culture and history, and take practical steps towards reconciliation that benefit the whole community.

Reconciliation is about building stronger, more respectful, and more inclusive communities. The RAP will help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are included in shaping the Shire’s future, and that reconciliation is embedded across services, projects, and decision-making.

 

How to get involved

We love hearing from our community - and your voice is important in helping to shape this initiative. Here's how you can share your ideas:

Community Survey

Complete a community survey.This survey asks about your priorities and ideas for how we can build reconciliation actions into the Shire of Harvey. It has five questions, and should take 5-10 minutes to complete.

Start Survey here >>

Drop in and say hi

Come and chat to our team!

  • We’ll be at Ridley Place on November 8 from 12-1pm for a Reconciliation Sausage Sizzle. Come and get a free sausage, and have a chat to us about your aspirations for Reconciliation.
  • We'll be at the Brunswick Show on 25 October from 12-2pm, so if you see our booth, stop by and say hi.
  • Share your ideas directly with the Shire of Harvey’s Community Development Team. You can do this by emailing communitydevelopment@harvey.wa.gov.au, or call (08) 9729 0300 and ask for Ben Rose.

Join the Working Group

Want to help shape the RAP, and be a voice for community? Expressions of Interest to join our RAP Working Group will be available soon - watch this space!

​Frequently asked questions

What is a RAP?

 A RAP is a practical framework developed through Reconciliation Australia that provides structured commitments to strengthen relationships, respect, and opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Why is the Shire developing a RAP?

The RAP will provide a framework of practical actions for the Shire of Harvey to centre  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, acknowledge culture and history, and take practical steps towards reconciliation that benefit the whole community.

Who is leading the RAP process?

The process is being guided by the Shire’s RAP Working Group (RAPWG), with input from community members, Traditional Owners, Elders, and Aboriginal organisations.

What type of RAP is the Shire developing?

Reconciliation Australia recognises four RAP types: Reflect, Innovate, Stretch, and Elevate. The Shire is currently developing a Reflect RAP – the first stage of our reconciliation journey. Reflect RAPs are about building strong foundations on which to undertake a journey of transformational change.

Learn more about the four types of RAP.

How will my feedback be used?

All input will be respectfully recorded, considered by the RAP Working Group, and directly influence the actions and commitments in the RAP. Updates will be shared through the Shire’s website, social media, and newsletters.

What happens after the RAP is endorsed?

Once endorsed, the RAP will be registered with Reconciliation Australia. The implementation of the RAP will be monitored through measurable actions, and progress reported back to the community. The RAP will be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure ongoing commitment.

More information

To learn more about the RAP process, check out Reconciliation Australia and Reconciliation WA.

To learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, culture, cultural protocols, and the Native Title agreement in the South West, check out the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council website, and also Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation.

To find out about local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, head to Supply Nation, Australia’s largest national directory of verified Aboriginal business.