Reconciliation Action Plan for the Commonwealth Games

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones today joined representatives of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to launch the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) Reconciliation Action Plan.

“The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is an opportunity for Games partners to deliver legacy outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Ms Jones said.

“The RAP aims to encourage employment and training opportunities and greater cultural awareness as part of the spirit of the Games.

“I commend the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Corporation’s Yugambeh Elders Advisory Group, the Indigenous Working Group and the Embracing 2018 RAP Implementation Team for working together on this important initiative.

“As we move closer to the Games, we will continue to strengthen a legacy of relationships, respect and opportunities. In particular, we want to share these messages with younger generations. That’s why, I’m also pleased to announce the $200,000 Reconciliation In Queensland Schools grants program.”

Ms Jones said under the funding program, Queensland state primary schools and special schools could apply for grants of up $5000 for reconciliation projects in the school community.

“This is an exciting way for students to promote reconciliation,” she said.

“Some ideas for school-based projects include placing Traditional Owner plaques in the school grounds, creating bush tucker gardens with edible native plants, engaging with Elders and Traditional Custodians to share their culture and personal stories and excursions to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.”

Mrs Mary Graham from the Yugambeh Elders Advisory Group said her hope was that the Reconciliation Action Plan becomes symbolic across the Commonwealth and that through the celebration of sport, arts and culture, further steps can be taken towards reconciliation.

GOLDOC Chairman Peter Beattie said the Reconciliation Action Plan would contribute to the Games’ legacy by setting a benchmark for all future major events in Australia and across the Commonwealth.

“It is very fitting that this launch is taking place during Reconciliation Week and it very aptly supports the theme of ‘Let’s take next steps’.”

Commonwealth Games Federation Chief Executive Officer, David Grevemberg CBE reiterated the Federation's wholehearted support for Gold Coast 2018 in delivering the first ever major event RAP and stressed the importance of such initiatives in respecting, protecting and promoting the rights of indigenous people and celebrating their culture.

"Welcoming the Yugambeh Elders to the United Kingdom and Buckingham Palace in March this year to support the launch of the Queen’s Baton Relay and lead the Gold Coast 2018's invitation to the Games next year was a powerful and important moment in Commonwealth sport's history," Mr Grevemberg said.

"We passionately believe that Gold Coast 2018 can and must support the process of indigenous reconciliation and social justice, at home in Australia, and further afield by recognising and honouring First Nations people across the Commonwealth."

Visit the www.embracing2018.com or www.gc2018.com to find out more about the Reconciliation Action Plan and the Reconciliation In Queensland Schools grants program.

Media contact: Emma Clarey 0437 069 516