Last year, we achieved the outcomes under the “Reflect” Reconciliation Action Plan with the inclusion of a First Nations Outcome team to enhance the way we work with the First Nations community in Western Sydney. This initiative is underpinned by our “Ways of Working” principles and a comprehensive roadmap that prioritises stakeholder relationships, cultural safety, governance, data and impact evaluation. We are committed to adopting a principled approach and are in the process of finalising a framework that fosters the ethical and moral environment required to guide our efforts in achieving Closing the Gap outcomes. This is being completed in close partnership with the First Nations community.
Our organisation has identified several essential enablers, such as ongoing projects in Indigenous data sovereignty and the adoption of a Cultural Humility approach. Our strengthened ties with the community have led to direct interactions with First Nations leaders in Western Sydney, especially during NAIDOC Week. We had the privilege of having Julie Jones, a respected leader of the Darug community, deliver the Welcome to Country at two major events, including the grand opening of the Neighbourhood Health Hub, Healthicare. Additionally, we maintain active engagement with multiple First Nations organisations in Western Sydney and have forged new partnerships, such as with the Wolkara Elders Group, which offers crucial support services including check-in calls, social programs, and food bank assistance.
We have also actively participated in the NSW/ACT PHNs’ First Nations Leader Group, delivering on a workplan on Closing the Gap which includes Transformation of Government and First Nations Workforce.
Julie Jones conducting the
Welcome to Country at the
Healthicare opening.
