Urbans commences its Reconciliation journey with the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan to solidify our commitment to meaningful actions in this space.
Our company recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait people are our nation’s First People and our RAP will reflect that understanding, while we also acknowledge that we operate our business on lands and in waterways where traditional owners have had and continue to maintain a spiritual relationship with the country – these are lands in which all within our organisation live, work and play.
We have partnered with Kimberley Wanganeen Consultancy and Ochre Dawn Creative Industries to support Urbans on our RAP creation.
Our business sites are located at Kilburn and Lonsdale on Kaurna Yerta but Urbans also conducts outdoor asset maintenance works across South Australia, traversing many First Nations lands.
Through our Reconciliation Action Plan, Urbans aims to share the land on which we’re working in a culturally sensitive way that embraces learning about local cultures, whilst also undertaking operations in a respectful manner.
Urbans Chief Executive Officer Belinda Seddon said the organisation will aim to grow cultural capabilities amongst our workforce and increase Indigenous employment and procurement opportunities for First Nations people via the RAP.
“We understand that First Nations people today face challenges other Australians do not,” Ms Seddon said.
“Our RAP will not only reflect our commitment to Reconciliation, produce meaningful outcomes for First Nations people, communities, and future generations, but will also hold us accountable to continuing the journey.
“I am proud our team has commenced this process and look forward to seeing our RAP come to fruition and making a difference to our business and our community.”
The RAP is being compiled by a working party featuring administrative and operational staff, including senior leaders, from various divisions across the organisation and is part of our Social Responsibility charter.
The document will be an ongoing genuine and lasting commitment to First Nations people and Reconciliation.
First actions to result from our RAP will include the introduction of an Acknowledgement of Country and a commitment to Urbans staff attending Cultural Awareness Training workshops.
Further actions will be announced and undertaken as our RAP develops.
Acknowledgement of Country
Urbans acknowledges that our business is located on traditional Aboriginal lands and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Urbans also recognises that wherever we may be, we are living and working on country where First Nations people continue to maintain a cultural and spiritual relationship with the land, sea, waterways and sky.
