Wood is delighted to announce the endorsement of its second-generation Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) by Reconciliation Australia this week. The 2019 – 2021 RAP builds upon the foundations and progress of the company’s 2015 RAP and further defines its vision and commitment for reconciliation.
The RAP documents Wood’s commitment to listening and working collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with a focus on creating a sustainable future. It will guide the organisation in building on its already successful partnerships including Role Models and Leaders Australia’s Girls Academy program, Career Trackers, Clontarf Foundation and Red Dust, as well as establishing new connections in the community.
Ralph Ellis, Wood’s president for operation services in Asia Pacific, said: “Our first RAP helped our organisation build a deeper understanding of the histories, stories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples that interface with our business.
“As we embark on our second generation RAP we are committed in our aspiration to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ vision for reconciliation and in doing so, to learn from history. “
The development process was led by Wood’s diversity and indigenous advisor, Tara Martin with input and collaboration from working groups across Australia.
Wood is also pleased to welcome Vanessa Davies to the role of external indigenous advisor providing counsel to the RAP Executive Committee. Vanessa has traditional connections to both Wongai and Noongar peoples in Western Australia and has a wealth of experience working in the private sector, government, training, education, community and indigenous relations.
Chief executive officer for Reconciliation Australia, Karen Mundine said: “We wish Wood well as it embeds and expands its own unique approach to Reconciliation and encourage them to embrace this journey with open hearts and minds, to grow from the challenges, and to build on its successes.”