City of Sydney’s stretch RAP aims for lasting change

Callan Morse
Callan Morse Published June 4, 2025 at 6.00am (AWST)

Developed in consultation with its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel, the City of Sydney has announced a three-year stretch Reconciliation Action Plan.

Aiming to strengthen partnerships with Indigenous peoples, deepen understanding of First Nations cultures inside and outside the organisation, and increase economic opportunities with the local community, the plan outlines how the City of Sydney will foster relationships, respect and opportunities to promote inclusion and equality.

Key areas of focus in the plan include strengthening meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples by listening to and working in partnership with community, and deepening understanding and recognition of Indigenous cultures, histories and customs through programming, events, education and protocols.

City of Sydney Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel co-chair LaToya Pinner said the plan is a chance to build something led by community and held up by accountability.

"The City of Sydney's stretch reconciliation action plan holds significant meaning for our community," Ms Pinner, a Gomeroi woman, said.

"It tells us that the City of Sydney is sincere in continuing its journey with us, walking beside us, and recognising our culture, our people and our place in this land."

Ms Pinner said the City of Sydney's stretch RAP is about "respecting the world's oldest living culture – one that's still here, still strong, and still evolving".

"It's about walking the talk, with real support for Aboriginal businesses, for community-led organisations, and for our grassroots mob already out there doing the work," she said.

"It's about listening more, continuing meaningful partnerships, and making sure Aboriginal voices are not just heard, but valued, in everything from decision-making to cultural events and employment.

"For me, it's also about creating a workplace where our people feel safe, respected and seen.

"Where cultural awareness runs deeper, and there's real curiosity to learn and connect. That kind of change can only happen if the whole organisation takes ownership of it – every single person, at every level, every day."

The plan also focuses on promoting the economic prosperity of Indigenous peoples through the City of Sydney's employment and procurement processes and grants programs, with targets included to increase Indigenous employment and spend with First Nations businesses.

Reconciliation Australia chief executive officer Karen Mundine said as the local government authority located at one of Australia's first sites of contact, the City of Sydney plays a vital role in advancing reconciliation.

"This stretch reconciliation action plan builds on the City of Sydney's longstanding commitment to reconciliation demonstrated in previous plans," Ms Mundine said.

"The City of Sydney has focused on creating economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, more than doubling its procurement spend.

"With its focus on self-determination and strong relationships, the City of Sydney has the potential to drive considerable reconciliation outcomes across its sphere of influence."

The stretch Reconciliation Action Plan was adopted by Council last month.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the City of Sydney must be a leader when it comes to reconciliation and is committed to seeing through the actions in the stretch RAP.

"Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' histories, cultures and contributions are central to Sydney's community," Ms Moore said.

"Reconciliation is a shared responsibility and takes all of us, working together, to bring lasting change.

Ms Moore said the plan details the City of Sydney's commitment to reconciliation and will guide its work "to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel valued, heard and represented".

"The plan promotes inclusivity, cultural understanding and collaboration in the way we work and the services we provide," she said.

"Specifically, it focuses on supporting First Nations community initiatives and nurturing economic opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."

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