ADELAIDE FRINGE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN
INNOVATE
SEPT 2021 - AUG 2023
Adelaide Fringe recognises and pays our respects to the First Nations peoples across this country, whose lands were never ceded and remain important to the living First Nations peoples today. In particular we would like to acknowledge Kaurna Miyurna First Nations Peoples and their ancestral lands on which our festival and office is located. We respect the living cultures, spirit, and country of the First Peoples. We acknowledge and embrace the significance and diversity of First Nations People’s contributions in our Fringe and in the greater arts community.
CONTENTS
Cover Artwork: ‘Star Dreaming’ Page 3: Page 4: Page 5: Page 6: Page 7: Page 8: Page 9: Page 10: Page 11: Page 13: Page 15: Page 19: Page 22: Page 24: Page 26-27:
by Gavin Wanganeen Foreword Message from Reconciliation Australia Our Vision Our Business Our Sphere of Influence Our RAP Our RAP Working Group Our RAP Champions Our Reconciliation Journey so far Our Collaborations towards Reconciliation Relationships Respect Opportunities Governance About the Artists
*All registered events and participants in Adelaide Fringe agree to allow their images to be used in various formats by Adelaide Fringe at the time of registration. All images within this RAP feature artists and events that have participated in past Adelaide Fringes.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan refers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Adelaide Fringe acknowledges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the First Nations peoples of Australia.
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Following a detailed consultation process, we are thrilled to launch Adelaide Fringe’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. The journey in delivering this RAP will help us strengthen our commitment to champion First Nations peoples through the unique platform of Adelaide Fringe. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first people’s of this country and that reconciliation is the responsibility of everyone. First Nations Australians hold an immeasurably important place as Custodians of our land and waters and all of us at Adelaide Fringe would like to pay our respects. We are committed to increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation across the Fringe and we will be measuring and be held accountable for our efforts to deliver positive outcomes with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Elders and the community. As an open access festival, Adelaide Fringe has a unique position across the South Australian community to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through various art forms to make an impact. Embracing reconciliation is a journey for the entire Adelaide Fringe family. The creation of this RAP is only the tip of the iceberg and will see us continuously striving to raise awareness, provide platforms, share and tell stories to forge more positive futures for all. The Fringe’s RAP is a culmination of a long period of consultation and conversation and I would like to acknowledge and thank everyone across many communities for their contribution to these important discussions.
Developing a reconciliation action plan requires resources and will and commitment from many and this was certainly the case with the Adelaide Fringe RAP. On behalf of the Board, I have the privilege of co-chairing the RAP Working Group. We took time to deeply consider the Adelaide Fringe’s past, present and future relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Embedded in this plan are our ideas on how the organisation can achieve equitable access and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists – future, emerging and established, venues, businesses, audiences and current and future employees. We also listened respectfully to a diverse range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and First Nations artists who attended the 2020 Fringe, the voices of whom are also reflected in this plan. Importantly, our Reconciliation Action Plan transparently and clearly signals to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, key stakeholders and partners our standpoint on reconciliation and how the Adelaide Fringe intends to actively contribute towards an Australia whose First Peoples can fully participate and share in the benefits our country has to offer. This plan is built on established relationships that both the Adelaide Fringe and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have invested in over time. I believe that the actions of the Adelaide Fringe will transcend this plan and truly hope that this will continue for generations to come.
Heather Croall, Director & CEO of Adelaide Fringe
Odette Pearson, Adelaide Fringe Board Member & RAP Working Group Co-Chair
& RAP Working Group Co-Chair
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MESSAGE FROM RECONCILIATION AUSTRALIA Commencing an Innovate RAP is a crucial and rewarding period in an organisation’s reconciliation journey. It is a time to build strong foundations and relationships, ensuring sustainable, thoughtful, and impactful RAP outcomes into the future. Since 2006, RAPs have provided a framework for organisations to leverage their structures and diverse spheres of influence to support the national reconciliation movement. This Innovate RAP is both an opportunity and an invitation for Adelaide Fringe to expand its understanding of its core strengths and deepen its relationship with its community, staff, and stakeholders. By investigating and understanding the integral role it plays across its sphere of influence, Adelaide Fringe will create dynamic reconciliation outcomes, supported by and aligned with its business objectives. An Innovate RAP is the time to strengthen and develop the connections that form the lifeblood of all RAP commitments. The RAP program’s framework of relationships, respect, and opportunities emphasises not only the importance of fostering consultation and collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, but also empowering and enabling staff to contribute to this process, as well. With over 2.3 million people now either working or studying in an organisation with a RAP, the program’s potential for impact is greater than ever. Adelaide Fringe is part of a strong network of more than 1,100 corporate, government, and not-for-profit organisations that have taken goodwill and intention, and transformed it into action. Implementing an Innovate RAP signals Adelaide Fringe’s readiness to develop and strengthen relationships, engage staff and stakeholders in reconciliation, and pilot innovative strategies to ensure effective outcomes. Getting these steps right will ensure the sustainability of future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives, and provide meaningful impact toward Australia’s reconciliation journey. Congratulations Adelaide Fringe on your Innovate RAP and I look forward to following your ongoing reconciliation journey. Karen Mundine, Chief Executive Officer Reconciliation Australia
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Art has the power to educate, celebrate, bring together and share truths. As the biggest open access arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Adelaide Fringe is a unique platform to share the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures to the world. Our vision for Reconciliation is to play our role in advancing a unified, just and respectful nation, through the use of inclusive Art in all its mediums. We are committed to creating space to listen, unlearn, and relearn true Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories. To hear Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. To pay respect to, celebrate and champion Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and customs.
Adelaide Fringe Opening Ceremony, Elder Park 1980 5
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OUR BUSINESS We collaborate with many venues to promote and empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples participation and work with leading arts organisations, government bodies and stakeholders year round, leading vital industry leadership and conversations.
Adelaide Fringe is not-for-profit arts organisation which delivers the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere. For 31 magical summer days and nights, Fringe transforms Adelaide and greater South Australia. Our festival stretches from Whyalla all the way down to Mount Gambier, with eclectic and vibrant events that include cabaret, theatre, comedy, circus, music, visual arts, workshops and so much more. Adelaide Fringe was born in 1960 and has grown year on year, we pride ourselves on our inclusiveness and diversity. At our core, we exist to support and advocate for artists, venues and the arts industry.
Events South Australia 52%
Adelaide Fringe employs 36 year-round staff and our team grows to in excess of 210 staff including casual employees and volunteers during the December to March festival period. Adelaide Fringe employs 3 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island staff members within our yearround team. Our main festival office is located in the Adelaide CBD and during the Fringe itself, we pop up 4 temporary box office locations across the city. Our festival is held for 5 weekends each February and March. Adelaide Fringe will be held: 18 February to 20 March 2022
Interstate 27%
International 21%
Event Composition
2020
2021
Event contains self-identified First Nation performers or Creatives
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Adelaide Fringe 2021 snapshot: 9.7% of the 2021 Adelaide Fringe program included events with First Nations themes, artists or creatives, Over $100,000 in grants were awarded as part of our First Nation Collaboration Grants
We work alongside and collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities in a number of ways; through artist & venue support services, arts industry advocacy, funding opportunities, presentation of collaborative works, programming and engagement of cultural consultants.
19 different Australian First Nations Artists, Performers & groups received these grants 36% of the grants issued through the Artist Fund round were granted to Artists, Producers & Groups that define themselves as culturally and linguistically diverse
Sunrise Ceremony. Photo: Trentino Priori 6
OUR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
Partnerships: We maintain global partnerships with well-known brands and suppliers and encourage them to adopt and facilitate reconciliation practices and attend various reconciliation events.
Artists: We advocate and support thousands of artists who participate in Adelaide Fringe annually. We are committed to supporting an open access Fringe model, supporting all artists to participate and working to reduce any barriers that may prohibit participation from broad communities.
Donors: Our giving circle is large and varies broadly among the community and supports personal philanthropy from $2 donations to large bequests. Industry: We lead conversations and vital industry collaborations connecting hundreds of arts industry delegates annually.
Venues: We collaborate with hundreds of venues to present events, and work to promote and empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples participation, including Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, who for the first time in 2020, ran an entirely First Nations performance hub.
Government: We are fortunate to enjoy a very strong, supportive and open relationship with local and state Government stakeholders and partners.
Welcome Ceremony - Kumangka Palti Yarta. Photo: Anastasia Comelli, 2022 7
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OUR RAP
Our RAP Working Group is made up of 20 people both internal and external to Adelaide Fringe. Of this group, 11 members are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and 11 members are Adelaide Fringe employees.
Adelaide Fringe is developing a RAP to provide a framework for the organisation to support national reconciliation and achieve a strategic document that sets out practical plans of action on how we as an organisation will contribute to reconciliation in our community. Our RAP Working Group oversees the RAP development, and implementation both in and outside of our organisation.
Our RAP Champions are people proudly supporting our RAP external to Adelaide Fringe and internally our RAP will be championed by our Head of Operations and our Reconciliation and Diversity Manager.
This RAP will enable us to make further progress towards reconciliation and strengthen our relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our work brings people, thoughts and the collective community together. Adelaide Fringe is committed to creating and nurturing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, artists and audiences that are meaningful and enduring. Adelaide Fringe’s 2021-2023 RAP will: Facilitate the development and guide us in maintaining strong and mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. Ensure we continue to build on our guiding principles of support, understanding and inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in all organisational activities. Key Achievements thus far include: The development and implementation of a formal Reconciliation Policy. Instigation of the formation of the South Australian Indigenous Employment Cluster in Arts and Culture – a group of employers in the creative industries committed to increasing Indigenous participation and employment. Creation of First Nations Collaboration Grants to reduce barriers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to participate in Adelaide Fringe, supported by the State Government of South Australia. Commitment to Adelaide Fringe Staff Cultural Awareness Training and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learnings including Walk on Country and Tindo Yolurendee, Sunrise Ceremony. Adelaide Fringe held four workshops in the creation of the RAP, two for the internal working groups including staff, volunteers and advisory committee, and two external workshops inviting members of the community and key stakeholders, including artists, venues, partners and industry to participate. Supporting increased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment opportunities through dedicated work placements and on the job training opportunities. Establishing a RAP Working Group with both internal and external members ensuring majority participation is with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives, to guide decision-making and ensure a culturally appropriate approach to our RAP development. From back to front: Karno Martin, Yellaka. Photo: Paul Haese. Jeremy Whiskey, Iwantja Band. Photo: Trentino Priori. Community Fringe Launch in Murlawirrapurka. Photo: The Advertiser 10
OUR RECONCILIATION JOURNEY SO FAR 1960’s – Performances by Ernabella and Arunda (Arrernte) artists feature in the Fringe program.
2000 – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Fringe launch is held in Rymill Park.
1970’s – Music and visual art programs
2004 – Australian and Torres Strait Islander Arts Program is curated by Troy-Anthony Baylis in Ngapartji, Tandanya and Fringe Hub.
1980 – The first Aboriginal Community Ceremony is held in Elder park to officially open Fringe.
2006 – Australian and Torres Strait Islander
from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists feature in the Fringe program for the first time.
Arts Program including an exhibition from Aboriginal inmates in prison features in the Fringe program.
1985 – Fringe facilitates the first Aboriginal Women’s arts festival.
2007 – The Inaugural Desert Fringe is held in Port Septembera.
Adelaide Fringe Opening Ceremony, Elder Park 1980
Sunrise Ceremony. Photo: Paul Haese
1988 – Focus on Aboriginal Australia
performance nights are presented in the Fringe theatre program.
2010 - Karl ‘Winda’ Telfer is appointed as Cultural Producer at Adelaide Fringe.
1990 – Aboriginal Cultural Institute, Tandanya, present their first play in Fringe and Lion Arts Centre program including a number of other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events.
2010 – Karl ‘Winda’ Telfer and Adelaide Fringe staff participate in first Tindo Yolurendee, Sunrise Ceremony, a special ceremony to acknowledge the Kaurna Nation in the lead up to opening night of Adelaide Fringe.
1992 – Sees an Aboriginal and Islander
music festival at Port Adelaide as part of the Fringe program.
1998 – Major Moogy Sumner leads the
Opening Night Street Party in Rundle Street.
2010 – Adelaide Fringe facilitates its first Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander staff placement in collaboration with Arts SA. Sunrise Ceremony. Photo: Trentino Priori
Major Moogy Sumner. Photo: The Advertiser
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OUR RECONCILIATION JOURNEY SO FAR 2014 - Tindo Yolurendee, Sunrise
2019 – Adelaide Fringe creates First Nations Collaboration Grants to reduce barriers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to participate in Adelaide Fringe, supported by the State Government of South Australia. $100,000 is awarded in grants to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
Ceremony becomes a free registered Fringe event for the general public to attend. “Kaurna Ceremony – A special ceremony, held exactly seven days before the Fringe opens, to acknowledge the Kaurna nation, the custodians of the lands we gather on in Adelaide/Tarnadanya”.
2019 - Odette Pearson is appointed as the inaugural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander member on the Adelaide Fringe Board.
October 2015 - Adelaide Fringe staff Walk on Country with Karl ‘Winda’ Telfer, learning about the Kaurna Nation along the Adelaide coastline.
2019 - Adelaide Fringe creates “Yabarra, Gathering of Light”, an immersive light and projection event in collaboration with Yellaka and others, sharing stories of Kaurna country on the banks of Tarndaparri (River Torrens)the event attracted over 100,000 people.
2016 - Adelaide Fringe presents Tindo
Utpurndee, Sunset Ceremony as the official opening Fringe event for the 2016 festival.
Sunrise Ceremony. Photo: Paul Haese
2017 – 25% of all Adelaide Fringe Artist Grants are presented to Aboriginal artists and events.
Yabarra. Photo: JK
2020 - “Yabarra: Dreaming in Light” is
presented and produced by Adelaide Fringe in collaboration with Yellaka and others in Tandanya for the month of Fringe.
2018 - Adelaide Fringe Board formalises the Reconciliation Policy.
2020 – Adelaide Fringe with support of
The State Government awards $100,000 in grants to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
2018 - Adelaide Fringe increases the number of Artist Grants awarded to Aboriginal Artists to 28%.
2018 - Adelaide Fringe Staff attend Cultural Awareness Training with Jack Buckskin.
2020 – Adelaide Fringe commences our Reconciliation Action Plan Journey.
Sleep on Country. Photo: Bella Caruso
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Dreaming in Light. Photo: Tony Virgo
OUR COLLABORATIONS TOWARDS RECONCILIATION Yabarra- Dreaming in Light & Yabarra- Gathering of Light
April Wanganeen
A unique cultural experience to engage, immerse, and educate all who share the dreaming in light.
April started working at Fringe through an Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander placement on a short term contract in 2016, and in 2018 she won the Employee Excellence Award through the Governors Aboriginal Employment Industry program. April has transitioned into the role of Reconciliation and Diversity Coordinator.
Steph Tisdell - Adelaide Fringe Artist a
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“Adelaide Fringe was the first place I ever toured a solo show… I have been so blessed to be involved in the Fringe in several ways including Desert Fringe and I even got a grant last year which really helped me have my work seen. The Adelaide Fringe do such a good job of creating a community that is very open and inclusive; this isn’t just for show, either, because employees at all levels are also diverse and empowered.”
Dusty Feet Mob
Dearna Newchurch
o tin ren o: T t o Ph
Dusty Feet Mob are an Aboriginal dance group that nurtures strength, confidence and dignity. They know that storytelling through dance and song is their culture, it’s a powerful way of entering into past hurts and injustices experienced by Aboriginal families in a way that allows both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people to grow in acceptance, understanding and empathy together. Dusty Feet Mob have proudly performed in Desert Fringe in Port Septembera for close to a decade.
Undertaking a work placement with the Adelaide Fringe Festival was invaluable to my professional and personal development. After my initial placement I was offered on-going employment opportunities within the Adelaide Fringe which led to a full time position as a Producer. Moving up through a variety of programming roles I was able to diversify my skills as a Producer as well as broaden my industry networks, which have now opened up further opportunities working with Restless Dance Theatre, the Adelaide Guitar Festival and MOD. 13
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OUR COLLABORATIONS TOWARDS RECONCILIATION Aborigi-LOL The opportunity to stand on the world stage in the second largest arts festival in the world is a valuable stance for these two performers. The stories they bring and the messages they deliver help to amplify an awareness of personal/cultural perspectives to a mainstream comedy audience.
Letisha Ackland
as ch e
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Having a keen interest in Music and Production, the Arts South Australia Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Work Placement was a great opportunity that was the stepping stone into my career in the Arts industry.
Tindo Utpurndee
Ph
eR ud Cla : o ot
Adelaide Fringe celebrated the Opening Night of the festival (2016-2020) with a sunset ceremony; a powerful and enthralling ceremony recognising and honouring the living customs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Of desert & Sea, Beautiful Being a part of the Adelaide Fringe was an incredible opportunity to show case our work, as well as network with other incredible artists, in particular those who were part of the First Nations Hub at Tandanya.
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I started out as a Production Assistant in 2011 and went on to be a Senior Production Coordinator at the Adelaide Fringe. In October 2017 I was Acting Head of Production. I have developed my own personal and professional skills working in many events and festivals in SA and interstate, and have gained many licences, tickets and experience both in the workplace and on the ground. I’m the youngest Senior Production Coordinator that has been at the Fringe and I was also the first female Aboriginal person in Production to run the Fringe Club. Letisha Ackland. (Now working at Music SA)
RELATIONSHIPS Our work brings people, thoughts and the collective community together. Adelaide Fringe is committed to creating and nurturing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, artists and audiences that are meaningful and enduring. Relationships that give and take from each other to advance a unified and shared positive future between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do and guides our decision making, we will continue to champion the needs of our stakeholders in order to support them.
Yabarra, Gathering of Light 2019. Photo: Jack Fenby
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RELATIONSHIPS Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
1.
a.
March 2022 Review June 2022
Director and CEO
Establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations.
2. Build relationships through celebrating National Reconciliation Week (NRW).
Formalise existing engagement opportunities with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations and develop guiding principles for future ongoing engagement.
b. Develop and implement an engagement plan to work with Aboriginal and March 2022 Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations that enables greater opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to participate in the planning, development and implementation of all Fringe activities.
Head of Program Operations
c. Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, producers or cultural advocates to participate in the open access environment of Fringe, ensuring a minimum of 4% program participation. (previously averaged 6-7% annually)
November 2021 Review November 2022
Artist and Venue Manager
a. Circulate Reconciliation Australia’s NRW resources and reconciliation materials to our staff, board and volunteers and promote NRW externally through Fringe communication platforms.
May 2022 May 2023
Director and CEO
b. RAP Working Group members to participate in an external NRW event, sharing their experience and participation with the organisation and the Board.
May 2022 May 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
c. Encourage and support staff and senior leaders to participate in at least one external event to recognise and celebrate NRW sharing their experience and participation with the organisation and the Board.
May 2022 May 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
d. Organise at least one NRW event each year and promote this activity externally and internally through Fringe communication platforms.
May 2022 May 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
e. Register all our NRW events on Reconciliation Australia’s NRW website.
May 2022 May 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
f. Review [HR] policies to ensure no barriers to staff participating in NRW events.
May 2022 May 2023
Head of Operations
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RELATIONSHIPS Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
3. Promote reconciliation through our sphere of influence.
a. Grow our collaboration other Arts Organisations Australia wide who are on their RAP journey, and other like-minded organisations and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners to develop ways to advance reconciliation within the performing arts sector.
September 2021 Review June 2022
Head of Operations
b. Communicate our commitment to reconciliation publically, through a formal launch, Fringe communication platforms and an appropriate external public facing communications (i.e., Fringe program).
February 2022
Marketing Manager
c. Explore opportunities to positively influence our external stakeholders to drive reconciliation outcomes, extending to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, the wider South Australian community, interstate and international stakeholders.
June 2022 Review June 2023
Business Development Manager
d. Continue to create opportunities to build positive relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, producers and venues.
June 2022 Review June 2023
Artist and Venues Manager
e. Activate opportunities to facilitate beneficial partnerships between Fringe circle of influence (staff, sponsors, donors, artists, partners, venues and Board) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fringe participants.
April 2022 April 2023
Director and CEO
f. Implement strategies and ensure policy reflects our commitment to educate and engage Adelaide Fringe staff in Reconciliation
June 2022 June 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
April 2022
Head of Operations
b. Update Fringe’s Equity Policy to include specific component for anti-discrimination of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and implement and communicate the updated policy across our organisation.
March 2022
Head of Operations
c. Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors to consult on the development of our Anti-Discrimination Policy and for guidance on updating our Equity Policy.
March 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
d. Educate senior leaders and board members on the effects of racism by offering a specifically designed and delivered in-house anti-racism training built with the support of humanrights.gov.au teaching materials and signing up to the Racism Stops with Me Campaign.
June 2022
Head of Operations
4. Promote positive race relations a. Conduct a review of HR policies and procedures to identify existing antithrough anti-discrimination strategies. discrimination provisions, and future needs.
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RELATIONSHIPS Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
5.
a. Ensuring engagement of Elders, facilitators, artists and consultants for events and ceremonial purposes that are representative of all First Nation diversity across South Australia. Review annually.
March 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
b. Ensure that all staff are aware of and engage with appropriate Traditional Owner groups across South Australia.
March 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
Recognise the diversity of First Nation South Australian community
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RESPECT Respect is the foundation for positive relationships and successful partnerships. As the largest open access arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Adelaide Fringe embraces our responsibility as leaders in building and growing respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who we work and connect with. We are committed to an ongoing and genuine desire to learn, grow and value First Nations peoples, wisdom, cultures and customs.
Dupang Festival in Adelaide Fringe 2018. Photo: Trentino Priori 19
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RESPECT Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
6.
a. Conduct a review of cultural learning needs within our organisation, including responses from the staff survey, and identify opportunities to support Fringe stakeholders on their cultural learning journey.
March 2022
Head of Operations
b. Consult local Traditional Owners and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors on the development and implementation of a Cultural Learning Strategy.
April 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
c. Develop, implement and communicate a Cultural Learning Strategy for our staff, board and volunteers.
January 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
d. Provide opportunities for RAP Working Group members, HR managers and other key leadership staff to participate in formal and structured cultural learning.
June 2022
Head of Operations
a. Continually develop staff, board and volunteer’s understanding of the purpose and significance behind cultural protocols, including Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country protocols.
June 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
b. Develop, implement and communicate a cultural protocol document, including protocols for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country and resources that:
June 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
c. Ensure existing protocols that extend an invitation to a local Traditional Owner or Custodian to provide a Welcome to Country or other appropriate cultural protocol at significant events each year are upheld and actioned.
April 2022 Review January 2023
Producer
d. Ensure existing protocols to include an Acknowledgement of Country or other appropriate protocols at the commencement of important meetings are upheld and actioned.
April 2022 Review January 2023
Director and CEO
Increase understanding, value and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights through cultural learning.
7. Demonstrate respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by observing cultural protocols.
• Empower staff with the confidence to do their own Acknowledgement of Country and • Guide staff on how to engage Traditional Owners to perform a Welcome to Country
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RESPECT Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
July 2022 July 2023
Director and CEO
b. Review HR policies and procedures to remove barriers to staff participating in NAIDOC Week.
July 2022 July 2023
Head of Operations
c. Encourage and support all staff to participate in NAIDOC activities (such as the SA NAIDOC March) during work hours, sharing their experience and participation with the organisation and the Board.
July 2022 July 2023
Head of Marketing, Ticketing and Digital Operations
d. Circulate NAIDOC resources and materials to our staff and board, to support learning, understanding and engagement in NAIDOC week and promote externally through Adelaide Fringe communication platforms.
July 2022 July 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
e. Develop opportunities to acknowledge Fringe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, producers, consultants and venues during a NAIDOC Week.
July 2022 July 2023
Marketing Manager
a. Continue to provide guidance and support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, producers and venues during Fringe (including Tandanya).
June 2022 Review January 2023
Artist and Venues Manager
b. Work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and consultants/ advisors to implement strategies/initiatives that create a culturally supportive and safe work environment with the Fringe and within the Fringe event schedule.
June 2022 Review January 2023
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
8. Build respect for Aboriginal and Torres a. RAP Working Group members to participate in an external NAIDOC Week Strait Islander cultures and histories event, sharing their experience and participation with the organisation by celebrating NAIDOC Week. and the Board.
9. Create culturally safe work spaces and venues.
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OPPORTUNITIES
Dusty Feet Mob with Clara Cupcakes, Desert Fringe. Photo: Kevin Godfrey
Adelaide Fringe strives to provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to perform within our festival so that their stories can be told to our audiences and also to provide opportunities for career development within the arts for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also acknowledge that we must work harder to increase the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within our festival as we have a responsibility to create access to our platform so that we can share in and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories. The stories that are shared on Adelaide Fringe stages enrich the lives of people from all walks of life. This RAP aims to leverage existing relationships with organisations that can assist us to create pathways for employment within Adelaide Fringe and also aims to further grow our relationships with new providers and organisations that can assist us in creating these opportunities. We acknowledge that we have further work to do in creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples across the arts industry in South Australia. We will endeavour to work with a broader cross section of arts organisations within the state and to strengthen connections with organisations Australia wide to reduce barriers for participation in our industry. 22
OPPORTUNITIES Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
10. Improve employment outcomes by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development.
a. Build understanding of current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staffing profile, staffing needs and aspirations to inform future employment and professional development opportunities.
June 2022
Head of Operations
b. Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and advisors to consult on our recruitment, retention and professional development strategy.
October 2022
Head of Operations
c. Develop and implement a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development strategy.
June 2022
Head of Operations
d. Review how we advertise job vacancies to ensure they are effectively reaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, including language to encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and emphasising training on the job.
October 2022
Head of Operations
e. Review HR and recruitment procedures and policies to remove barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in our workplace.
June 2022 Review June 2023
Head of Operations
f. Increase the percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff employed in our workforce.
April 2022 Review April 2023
Head of Operations
a. Develop and implement a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander procurement strategy, including a stronger connection to Aboriginal Business Connect.
July 2022 Review July 2023
Director and CEO
b. Investigate Supply Nation membership.
January 2022
Head of Finance
c. Develop and communicate opportunities for procurement of goods and services from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to our staff and board.
July 2022 Review July 2023
Head of Finance
d. Review and update procurement practices to remove barriers to procuring goods and services from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses during Fringe peak and non-peak periods.
July 2022 Review July 2023
Head of Finance
e. Develop commercial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, producers and venues.
July 2022 Review July 2023
Head of Finance
a. Build understanding of current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, performers and producers to inform future engagement and professional development opportunities.
May 2022 Review May 2023
Artist and Venue Manager
b. Attend Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performances and festivals to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, performers and producers and promote opportunities.
July 2022 Review July 2023
Head of Program Operations
c. Explore a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural exchange at Fringe.
April 2023
Head of Program Operations
11. Increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supplier diversity to support improved economic and social outcomes.
12. Offer support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, performers and producers to increase participation in Fringe.
d. Further develop relationships with Taoundi College, AFL Sports Ready, The Workabout Centre, Aboriginal July 2022 Education Directorate, schools and other organisations to support young, up and coming Aboriginal and Torres Review July 2023 Strait Islanders artists, and producers. e. Build and expand on regional experiences through Fringe On Tour to strengthen relationships, activation and accessibility of mainstream Fringe to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
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Head of Program Operations
April 2022 Producer Review September 2022
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GOVERNANCE Adelaide Fringe is committed to actively supporting reconciliation. Throughout the development of this RAP, a number of actions and deliverables were workshopped by our organisation in collaboration with our RAP Working Group. The level of engagement and support for our Innovate RAP is evident in the membership of our first RAP Working Group and together, we make it our purpose to support the implementation of our RAP to champion our vision for reconciliation to the wider community.
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GOVERNANCE Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
13. Establish and maintain an effective RAP Working group (RAP Working Group) to drive governance of the RAP.
a. Formally confirm all RAP Working Group members and ensure quarterly meetings are communicated in advance, including an agenda emailed one week prior and meeting minutes are circulated one week after to all RAP Working Group Members.
January 2022 and Working Group meetings to be held in December, March, June and September each year
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
b.
Maintain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation on the RAP January 2022 Working Group, including:
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
• One Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal co-chair • At least one Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist/venue operator
14. Provide appropriate support for effective implementation of RAP commitments.
15. Build accountability and transparency through reporting RAP achievements, challenges and learnings both internally and externally.
16. Continue our reconciliation journey by developing our next RAP.
c. Review the Terms of Reference for the RAP Working Group.
December 2021
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
d. Meet at least four times per year to drive and monitor RAP implementation.
September 2022
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
a. Define resource needs for RAP implementation.
December 2021
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
b. Engage our senior leaders and other staff in the delivery of RAP commitments, including board report updates and regular staffing updates.
December 2021
Reconciliation and Diversity Manager
c. Define and maintain appropriate systems to track, measure and report on RAP commitments including in organisational KPI document.
January 2022 Review July 2022
Director and CEO
d. Maintain appointment of internal RAP Champion from senior management.
Review January 2022
Head of Program Operations
a. Complete and submit the annual RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia.
30 September 2022, 2023
Director and CEO
b. Publically report our RAP achievements, challenges and learnings, annually.
September 2022 Review September 2023
Head of Marketing, Ticketing and Digital Operations
c. Investigate participating in Reconciliation Australia’s biennial Workplace RAP Barometer.
April 2022
Head of Marketing, Ticketing and Digital Operations
a. Register via Reconciliation Australia’s website to begin developing our next RAP.
August 2023
Director and CEO
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ABOUT THE ARTISTS Gavin Wanganeen
Gavin Wanganeen is contemporary Aboriginal artist, former AFL legend, two time Premiership winner, member of the AFL Hall of Fame and Brownlow medallist. Gavin was born in Mount Gambier, South Australia and is a descendent of the Kokatha Mula people of the Western Desert in South Australia. The Kokatha people hold the Tjukupa (lore) and have a strong connection to country, the night sky and stories in the stars, a course of inspiration for the artwork for the front page of the Adelaide Fringe’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. Gavin’s mother was part of the Stolen Generation, taken from her parents when she was a young girl. Gavin began painting 10 years ago as a means of connecting him further to his culture, his heritage and the history of his family, country and people. In 2019, Gavin was an Ambassador for the Adelaide Fringe and is also part of the Adelaide Fringe Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group. “Adelaide Fringe has such a strong connection to community, colour, vibrancy and storytelling. Fringe is such a wonderful time to be in South Australia, a month long celebration of collaboration, unity and diversity. I am so pleased to be part of the Adelaide Fringe’s reconciliation journey.
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ABOUT THE ARTISTS Elizabeth Close
Elizabeth Yanyi Close is an Anangu woman from the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara language groups in Central Australia, and an established Contemporary Aboriginal Visual Artist based in Adelaide. She has spent the past 14 years crafting a dynamic multi-disciplinary visual arts practice that speaks to both her own, personal Connection to Country, and the concept of connection to place and space more broadly. She works in the mediums of 2D visual arts, large scale muralist installations and digital media. Elizabeth feels strongly about increasing the visibility of Aboriginal Arts and Culture in the public space. She is passionate about the importance of public art, and how it fits into the principles of placemaking. Elizabeth believes that public art transcends power dynamics and privilege; it takes art off the walls of the elite and out of the galleries and into the public realm; to challenge ideas and perceptions and to create a sense of ownership and belonging. Elizabeth juxtaposes her studio practice with large scale works; both of which are informed by the enduring and profound relationship that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People have with Country. This symbol is intended to be a signal to consumers of the Adelaide Fringe, that the performance, exhibition or event is by or in collaboration with First Nations Australian Artists. It is a landmark; a digital landmark; underpinned by the ancient practice of using and creating cultural and geographical landmarks. It represents all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and performers, and speaks to the concept of community and connection to place and space. The drips speak to our connection to Country since time immemorial; the paint is still wet on nonAboriginal occupation of this land. It is informed also by the original concepts that underpin the Aboriginal Flag - representing the people, the sun as giver of life, and the land itself.
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For public enquires about our RAP please contact the Diversity and Inclusion Manager; call 08 8100 2000, email buzz@adelaidefringe.com.au or visit adelaidefringe.com.au/reconciliation