Innovate
Reconciliation Action Plan November 2023 – October 2025
We acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional owners of the lands on which MPHN operates; the Wiradjuri, Nari Nari, Wemba Wemba, Perepa Perepa, Yorta Yorta, Ngunnawal, Ngarigo, Bangerang and Yitha Yitha Nations. We recognise our communities are made up of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples descended from additional mobs and clans who also call the Murrumbidgee region home. We pay respect to elders past, present and future and recognise these lands have always been places of traditional healing and medicine, and this plays a role in shaping future health services.
Our artwork “Connected” 2020 Artist: Owen Lyons This piece tells the story of connection and how we need to be connected to each other for our own wellbeing. We do this with our connection to the land. We come back to our own tribal home to heal when there has been a traumatic event in our lives, to be with our mob, our community. We are connected to our river where we grew up. It’s spiritual to us. It’s a place where we can go and reflect and gather our thoughts. That feeling of connection to the land and river is so strong and yet hard to put into words. That sense of belonging is so strong and will always call us home. We have walked this land for thousands of years and have always treated it with respect. It has always returned that respect with healthy food to eat and also gave us clothing and shelter. We learned to work with each to achieve these tasks and this has helped form our bond, not only with each other, but also with the earth of this great land we walk on.
Contents Statement of commitment 2 A statement from Karen Mundine, Reconciliation Australia’s CEO 3 Testimonials 5 Our commitment to reconciliation 6 Our vision for reconciliation 8 Our business 10 Our region 11 Our values 16 Our partners 18 Our Reconciliation Action Plan journey 20 Our Reconciliation Action Plan 22 Relationships 22 Respect 24 Opportunities 26 Governance 28 Contact 30
Statement of commitment On behalf of Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network’s
learn from one of the oldest and most resilient cultures
(MPHN) board, executive and employees, we are
in the world.
honoured to present MPHN’s inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). It is our collective agreement for reconciliation with both our region and Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. However, more than an agreement, it is a roadmap for our journey to reconciliation.
We have much to learn about traditional health and healing and how it shapes modern day medicine, health and wellbeing. We understand the importance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to be connected through song lines, stories, and Country. Learning about Australia’s First Nations cultures and
As an organisation, we have participated in the RAP
histories are central to improving our understanding and
development under the watchful guidance and
knowledge.
leadership of our Reconciliation Working Group (RWG). Together we have developed our vision for reconciliation, established our sphere of influence, and created tangible actions and activities for the organisation to implement.
This statement of commitment must be more than words on a page and enacted at all levels of our organisation. This RAP is a document we must and will bring to life. We are so pleased to be already enacting
At the heart of reconciliation is the acknowledgement,
some of these actions, most recently with the inclusion
understanding and awareness of past injustices
of specific cultural leave entitlements for our First
for Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Nations and non-First Nations employees.
peoples. Specifically, acknowledging what happened, understanding the damage caused, and awareness and empathy of the ongoing trauma and impacts across generations. By understanding and acknowledging the wrongdoings against Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we can start to reconcile and
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Reconciliation must exist in all we do. We will walk side-by-side in partnership with First Nations peoples in our quest for improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to heal, unite and reconcile all Australians.
Melissa Neal
Dr Jodi Culbert
Chief Executive Officer
Board Chair
MPHN
MPHN
A statement from Karen Mundine, Reconciliation Australia’s CEO
Reconciliation Australia commends Murrumbidgee
collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Primary Health Network on the formal endorsement of
peoples and communities, but also empowering and
its inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
enabling staff to contribute to this process as well.
Commencing an Innovate RAP is a crucial and rewarding
With close to 3 million people now either working or
period in an organisation’s reconciliation journey. It is
studying in an organisation with a RAP, the program’s
a time to build strong foundations and relationships,
potential for impact is greater than ever. Murrumbidgee
ensuring sustainable, thoughtful, and impactful RAP
Primary Health Network is part of a strong network
outcomes into the future.
of more than 2,500 corporate, government, and not-
Since 2006, RAPs have provided a framework for organisations to leverage their structures and
for-profit organisations that have taken goodwill and intention, and transformed it into action.
diverse spheres of influence to support the national
Implementing an Innovate RAP signals Murrumbidgee
reconciliation movement.
Primary Health Network’s readiness to develop and
This Innovate RAP is both an opportunity and an invitation for Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network to expand its understanding of its core strengths and
strengthen relationships, engage staff and stakeholders in reconciliation, and pilot innovative strategies to ensure effective outcomes.
deepen its relationship with its community, staff, and
Getting these steps right will ensure the sustainability
stakeholders.
of future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives, and provide
By investigating and understanding the integral role it plays across its sphere of influence, Murrumbidgee
meaningful impact toward Australia’s reconciliation journey.
Primary Health Network will create dynamic
Congratulations Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network
reconciliation outcomes, supported by and aligned with
on your Innovate RAP and I look forward to following
its business objectives.
your ongoing reconciliation journey.
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
Karen Mundine Chief Executive Officer Reconciliation Australia
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Testimonials Aunty Mary Atkinson lived on Cummeragunja mission with her husband Uncle Bevan Atkinson (deceased) and her family. In the 80’s the Atkinson family moved to Wagga Wagga under the resettlement scheme, to have better access to health services, housing, quality of education and for employment opportunities. Aunty Mary states “for too long we have been told what is best for us, without consultation as an Aboriginal person. Our mob need to be involved in these processes – nothing for us, without us. It is great MPHN are developing a Reconciliation Action Plan, they are a positive way forward, to ensure everyone has equality to better health, housing, education, and employment opportunities, to venture to close the gap. It is important we are walking together on this journey, so we can all move forward for our next generations, for our future and for our culture’s survival. Reconciliation is a part of our process to walk together, with truth telling and listening”.
Aunty Mary Atkinson, Wiradjuri/Ngunnawal Elder
Vickie is a proud Wiradjuri woman, born and raised in Griffith NSW. Vickie is the Regional Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD), and Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Coordinator at the Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service. Her role includes coordinating AOD service provision to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the Riverina Murray region as well as mental health, psychology and counselling services, Bringing Them Home Programs and SEWB services. Vickie’s vision for reconciliation is about everyone coming together, despite our differences and diversity to educate, create awareness, learn from each other, share our culture, be able to express ourselves without fear of judgement or repercussion and accept these differences. “It is about unity and healing together as a community and nation, speaking the truth, and having those truths acknowledged. Until such time that the past policies and legislations are acknowledged and actions from special commissions implemented then healing and unification will not and cannot be established”.
Vickie Simpson, well respected community member of Griffith
Tara is a proud Wangkumarra woman, who was born and raised at Hay on Nari Nari/Wiradjuri Country, alongside the beautiful Murrumbidgee River. Tara is a Project Manager with the Nari Nari Tribal Council, for the Indigenous Protected Area (IPA). “I am blessed to work on Country and experience our culture and heritage daily. I am fortunate to be able to walk on Country, protect and enhance it with guidance from our Elders.” Tara believes MPHN’s Reconciliation Action Plan is very important and gives Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples a voice. “If you are happy to listen and learn from our peoples then I am happy to walk with you. This plan will hopefully enable improved health and make a good working relationship with First Nations peoples moving forward, leading to openness and transparency when dealing with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. I hope the RAP is a living document that can be altered and adapted over time to suit and reflect what is needed for our First Nations people”.
Tara Dixon, well respected community member of Hay
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Our commitment to reconciliation To me, reconciliation is the opportunity each of us have to do something in our everyday lives to connect with and embrace the Aboriginal heritage of our country. It is about understanding our history – the good and the bad – and creating ways to work together to build a better future for everyone. - Julie Milsom
To me, reconciliation is about building a more inclusive and fair society that recognises and respects the history, cultures, rights, and contributions of Aboriginal peoples.
Acknowledging past hurts against First Nations peoples, ensuring we don’t repeat our past misdeeds, doing what we can to close the gap that we have created with prejudice, and advocating and allying with the Aboriginal community.
- Julie Redway
- Samantha Gilchrist
Reconciliation means to acknowledge and recognise Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of this land and to understand the impact of colonialisation. I reflect on my role in building relationships with First Nations people and being part of future meaningful change to improve equity and equality. As a mother, I believe I have an important role in sharing this information with my children, so that they too can understand and be part of change for future generations. - Melissa Neal
Reconciliation to me means acknowledging the history of our First Nations people, learning, growing, and walking side by side together respectfully and humbly.
It means recognising the past injustices towards Australia’s First Nations peoples, and understanding the impacts this has had and ensuring it doesn’t happen again.
- Maxine Honeysett
- Monica McInnes
To me, reconciliation offers the opportunity to grow upon my understanding and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences, stories, and culture. I believe by incorporating reconciliation into our everyday lives we can create a much more positive future whilst learning from and acknowledging the past. - Alanah Christie
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learning , growing , and walk ing side by side
creating ways to work together to build a better future for everyone
doing what we can to close the gap
to connect with and embrace the Aboriginal heritage of our country
being part of fut ure meaningful chan ge to improve equit y and equality
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Our vision for reconciliation To establish an ever-learning culture that acknowledges, listens, celebrates, and embraces First Nations communities across the Murrumbidgee. The reconciliation vision of Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is to recognise the resilience of First Nations peoples across the Murrumbidgee through the acknowledgement of past injustices; realisation and understanding of the impacts of transgenerational trauma; and building and sustaining an authentic role in the healing process and movement towards a united, reconciled Australia. In our effort to bring MPHN’s vision of Well People, Resilient Communities to life, no decisions about the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will be considered, discussed, created, decided, or implemented without their knowledge, involvement, and collaboration.
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Our business Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is a
MPHN is one of 31 local and independent PHNs
not-for-profit organisation servicing 252,358 people,
established nationally to support the primary healthcare
including 14,493, who identify as Aboriginal or Torres
sector and improve health outcomes, particularly
Strait Islander, living across 508 communities on a land
for those at-risk populations. MPHN achieves this by
mass of 126,124 square kilometres. Compared with the
understanding the region’s health needs to inform:
proportion of people identifying as an Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander in Australia (3.2%) and New South Wales (3.4%), the MPHN has a higher proportion
•
Funding services to meet population health needs.
•
Integrating local services and systems and improve coordination of care.
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at 5.8%. For people living in NSW the life expectancy for
•
Supporting the development of a local sustainable
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is 70.9 years
healthcare workforce through quality improvement
for males, and 75.9 years for females, which is 9.3 years
and professional development.
and 7.6 years lower compared to non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males and females living in NSW, respectively.
A significant proportion of the MPHN Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population live in Wagga Wagga or Griffith, the two major cities in the region. Local Government Areas in the western sector of MPHN have a higher percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with many of these communities small and remote.
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Strategic Plan 2023-2027 The 2023-2027 Strategic Plan provides MPHN, its partners and the community with a roadmap towards achieving our vision of Well People, Resilient Communities across the Murrumbidgee with the purpose to create connected, dynamic, equitable healthcare through empowered workforce and community. Similarly, this RAP provides MPHN with a roadmap in striving for reconciliation. Our Strategic Plan includes three focus areas: •
Invest in communities for improved health
mphn.org.au/2023-strategic-plan
outcomes. •
•
Support providers and enhance collaboration for
To assist our staff and communities to recognise, pay
stronger primary healthcare.
respect and participate in acknowledging culturally
Lead innovation and inspire for positive impact.
Our three focus areas complement the RAP’s core pillars of Relationships, Respect and Opportunities, and are underpinned by a strong and embedded Governance commitment and structures. In the Relationships pillar, through the actions and deliverables, MPHN seeks to create opportunities to foster meaningful partnerships and collaborations with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We value our partnership with members of the Murrumbidgee Aboriginal Health Consortium who continue to inform how we authentically engage with and strengthen our relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the Murrumbidgee. The Respect pillar of our RAP is a critical aspect in developing awareness and understanding about First Nations cultures and embed culturally safe practices in MPHN operations (internal and with our partners).
significant dates, customs, and traditions and in following cultural protocols appropriately. To create culturally safe environments for our First Nations peoples to be involved and contribute towards achieving improved health outcomes and experiences. The deliverables within the Opportunities pillar focus on providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with another avenue to positively influence and inspire change and transformation of primary healthcare. Supporting First Nations peoples and businesses to engage in delivery of MPHN programs and services, by removing barriers to employment and encouraging more procurement and commercial relations. MPHN can move towards achieving reconciliation through a stable and enduring governance structure guided by our Board, Senior Leadership Team, the Reconciliation Working Group, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, and in partnership with the Aboriginal Health Consortium. Through the RAP process, we can monitor our progress and hold ourselves to account in striving for reconciliation.
Our workforce Currently MPHN employs 58 staff. Of this, three employees identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Staff are located across the region with MPHN’s head office located in Wagga Wagga.
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Our region The geographical region in which MPHN operates is situated in southern New South Wales with communities bordering on NSW and Victoria to the south, Lake Cargelligo in the north, Young and the Snowy Valleys in the east and Barham in the west.
Lachlan (part)
Carrathool
Bland
Griffith
Hay
Temora
Leeton Murrumbidgee Narrandera
Coolamon Junee
Edward River Murray River
Lockhart
Berrigan
Wagga Wagga
Federation
Cootamundra -Gundagai Regional
Snowy Valleys Greater Hume Shire
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Hilltops
Western
Wagga Wagga
Border
Riverina
WIRADJURI
YITHA YITHA
NARI NARI WEMBA WEMBA
NGUNNAWAL PEREPA PEREPA
YORTA YORTA
NGARIGO BANGERANG *Artistic impression only
MPHN is located on the lands of the Wiradjuri, Nari Nari, Wemba Wemba, Perepa Perepa, Yorta Yorta, Ngunnawal, Ngarigo, Bangerang and Yitha Yitha peoples. The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) map provides a visual representation of the language, social or nation groups of First Nations Australia using larger groupings of people which may include clans, dialects, or individual languages. The Nations included here are within but not restricted to the MPHN footprint.
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Our values MPHN acknowledges and recognises the Countries on which MPHN operates have always been places of traditional healing and holistic medicine, and this plays a role in shaping future health services.
work together We are inclusive and work together to achieve the best outcomes for our community. We work in partnership with health service providers, consumers, and communities to improve the health of all people in the Murrumbidgee. We value teamwork and share knowledge and information to help us to achieve MPHN’s vision.
be honest We conduct ourselves with complete and open transparency. We are open and honest in our communication with each other, our partners and our clients. We are accountable for our actions and decisions and we welcome feedback to help us to continuously improve.
value others We treat each other, our partners, and the people of the Murrumbidgee communities with kindness and humility. We value each member of our team equally for their skills, experience and contribution to MPHN and our communities. We respect and embrace diversity among all those we engage with.
learn from others We listen to each other and to our community. We regularly engage our partners and community members to better understand their health needs. We invest in quality healthcare services that make a real difference to the people of the Murrumbidgee. We value feedback and the involvement of others.
aim to inspire We are passionate about our work. We strive to provide best practice in primary care. We have a culture of continuous improvement. We are committed to finding new solutions to improve the health and wellbeing of our community now and into the future. Image on right: Melissa Neal (CEO), Uncle James Ingram and Julie Redway (Executive Commissioning and Operations) during MPHN’s cultural tour in 2023.
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Our partners No single organisation or service can transform the
health organisations, including the Murrumbidgee Local
health system without likeminded collaborators and
Health District, and the region’s Aboriginal Medical
partners whose vision is for better experiences and
Services, Local Land Councils, and other organisations
improved health outcomes. While collaboration within
or agencies delivering Aboriginal and Torres Strait
the workplace is not new, the notion of organisations
Islander wellbeing activities. The Consortium’s purpose
working together through sharing ideas, pooling
is to work together and with the community to
resources and skills, and partnering to achieve shared
coordinate activities aimed at improving the wellbeing
goals, is a strength in the Murrumbidgee region. MPHN is
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living
proud of our partnerships and look forward to continuing
in the Murrumbidgee region. In 2020, the Consortium
our collaborative approach to reconciliation with a range
launched the Murrumbidgee Aboriginal Health Regional
of organisations and groups.
Plan “Cutting a track” which identifies four priority areas
MPHN is a proud member of the Murrumbidgee Aboriginal Health Consortium, which is comprised of
and local health issues, and MPHN is playing its role in addressing these priority areas.
Commissioned service providers A key role of MPHN is to fund services to meet
MPHN actively seeks opportunities to support Aboriginal
population need. MPHN is committed to supporting
and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing, aiming
commissioned service providers to provide culturally
at ‘Closing the Gap’ through activities targeted at
safe health services and wellbeing activities across
improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and
the Murrumbidgee. One initiative funded by MPHN is
Torres Strait Islander peoples in addition to growing
Integrated Team Care, which seeks to improve health
our own local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
workforce sector. MPHN have funded traineeships with
peoples with chronic disease through access to care
both RivMed and GAMS to support and strengthen
coordination, multidisciplinary care, and support for
training and upskilling opportunities for the region’s local
self-management; and improve access to culturally
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce.
appropriate mainstream primary care services. The
At the end of 2020, Julie Schubert, a proud Wiradjuri
Integrated Team Care program is commissioned through
woman and Aboriginal Mental Health Clinician at GAMS,
Riverina Aboriginal Medical & Dental Corporation
graduated from Charles Sturt University with a Bachelor
(RivMed) (Wagga Wagga), Griffith Aboriginal Medical
of Health Science specialising in mental health. Julie
Service (GAMS), Viney Morgan AMS Cummeragunja
was supported through a training scholarship provided
(Deniliquin) and in mainstream general practice
by GAMS. Funding provided by MPHN enabled Julie
delivered by Marathon Health. Support delivered
to complete clinical aspects of her studies. She is now
includes care coordination, outreach services,
undertaking a Bachelor of Social Science majoring in
and financial aid to facilitate appointments with
Psychology.
specialist and allied health (including transport and accommodation) and the purchase of medical aids.
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Primary healthcare providers Supporting general practice and primary healthcare
During the COVID-19 pandemic, MPHN supported
providers to deliver safe, high-quality services, including
general practice, pharmacy and Commonwealth funded
the delivery of culturally safe practices, continues to be a
General Practice Respiratory Clinics with a range of
key priority for MPHN. Across the Murrumbidgee region
practical tools and support. MPHN also collaborated
there are 306 general practitioners and 191 practice
with local Aboriginal Medical Services to develop
nurses operating from 89 general practices, and three
culturally appropriate videos and marketing collateral
Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.
promoting testing and vaccines, and adherence to
In addition to this, MPHN provides support to the region’s
physical distancing and hygiene recommendations.
pharmacies, allied health clinicians and practices.
System integration partners As part of MPHN’s commitment to improving
groups. Services and programs carefully consider these
coordination of care and local service and system
groups and how to best engage them – be that through
integration, it is critical to collaborate with community
community-led initiatives, holistic and integrated
leaders, both health consumers and clinicians. This
approaches, or programs specifically targeting a
is achieved through MPHN’s four Clinical Councils,
particular group. This helps improve health outcomes,
Community Advisory Committee, and 33 Local Health
quality of life, health literacy, awareness and all
Advisory Committees. Each group provides guidance
contributes to making a difference in the health of our
to MPHN on how best to support priority population
communities.
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Our Reconciliation Action Plan journey MPHN is a strong advocate for reconciliation and
Country by Wiradjuri Elder and Master Weaver Aunty
understand the importance of engaging, listening, and
Gail Manderson, who set the scene for a discussion led
acknowledging the past, to move forward in building
by Wiradjuri woman, Associate Professor Faye McMillan
meaningful and respectful relationships with Australia’s
(AM) about the importance of developing the MPHN
First Nations peoples. MPHN’s RAP will strengthen our
RAP. Staff were encouraged to explore and share their
existing foundations with clear strategies and directions
views regarding reconciliation and MPHN’s relationships
on how this will be achieved internally while supporting
with Murrumbidgee Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
like-minded organisations.
peoples authentically and honestly. Associate Professor
MPHN’s reconciliation journey began in early 2021 when the Reconciliation Working Group (RWG) was established. Guided by MPHN’s Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager, the RWG developed the organisation’s first Innovate RAP to drive contribution to reconciliation both internally and within the region’s communities. At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous people, for the benefit of all Australians. This notion was front of mind for all members of the RWG throughout their journey to develop MPHN’s Innovate RAP.
McMillan noted “developing a Reconciliation Action Plan is only the beginning of MPHN’s journey towards fostering more meaningful and beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the region that you serve and represent. MPHN has a wonderful opportunity to create a Reconciliation Action Plan that presents an inclusive and thoughtful vision for reconciliation and charts an actionable course forward on how the organisation and the individuals that represent it can contribute to positive change”. Building on this event, the RWG continued to collaborate with staff to develop an inclusive vision and actions, consulting with and surveying colleagues to inform the development of meaningful actions to address the
The first action of the RWG was to actively involve
themes of the four dimensions of the Innovate RAP. The
the wider organisation at a staff development day
RWG considered its sphere of influence, developing a
(Big Day In) in May 2021. The aim was to build their
better understanding of who and how to influence and
understanding of reconciliation and what it means to
partner with its stakeholders to effectively achieve RAP
them. The Big Day In commenced with a Welcome to
actions.
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MPHN’s RWG meet monthly and is comprised of a range of MPHN employees, including those in senior leadership, middle management, and from various locations. MPHN encourages all RWG members, staff and MPHN Board members to champion reconciliation. Collectively over the course of the RWG’s reconciliation
Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group Members: 1.
Maxine Honeysett, Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing Manager (Chairperson)
2.
Kelly Dal Broi, Living Well Your Way Engagement Officer (Co-Chairperson)
3.
journey, members have taken every opportunity to
Olivia D’Souza, HealthPathways Coordinator (Secretary)
embed cultural awareness and understanding into the
4.
Kristy Hawkins, Senior Manager Corporate Services
fabric of MPHN. The RWG is looking forward to working
5.
Andrew Heap, Senior Manager Primary Care
towards further strengthening relationships with First Nations peoples. MPHN encourages all First Nations
Engagement 6.
employees to actively participate in the RWG. In the annually-reviewed Terms of Reference, which guides
Melissa Neal, CEO & Reconciliation Action Plan Champion
7.
the RWG, the Chairperson position is reserved for the
Monica McInnes, Strategic Initiatives and Engagement Advisor
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager, with an
8.
Julie Milsom, Portfolio Manager
annual election of Co-chair (as needed) and Secretary.
9.
Toni Preuss, Planning and Reporting Manager
10. Alanah Christie, HealthPathways Project Officer 11. Julie Redway, Executive Commissioning and Operations 12. Cristy Houghton, Brand and Marketing Lead 13. Shelley Gledhill, Healthy Ageing and Palliative Care Manager One member identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.
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Relationships Further development of existing and future relationships with our First Nations peoples will support respectful and meaningful consultation, shared decision making, and alignment of ideas, needs and values. Acknowledgment and respect for the knowledge and contributions made by First Nations peoples, derived through their long founded traditional holistic medicine and healing practices should be a cornerstone towards understanding and achieving reconciliation.
Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
1. Establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations.
1.1 Meet with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations to develop guiding principles for future engagement.
June 2024
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
1.2 Develop and implement an engagement plan to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations.
June 2024
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
1.3 Continue to engage with organisations responsible for delivering health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the Murrumbidgee Aboriginal Health Consortium.
June 2024 June 2025
1.4 Explore the development of a MOU or other significant agreement with MLHD, Aboriginal Medical Services and other key health services/agencies to outline agreed goals, and a framework for future collaboration.
September 2024
Chief Executive Officer
1.5 Continue to engage directly with First Nations communities to understand their health needs through Yarns on the Couch and other direct engagement activities.
June 2024 June 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
2.1 Circulate Reconciliation Australia’s NRW resources and reconciliation materials to our staff.
April 2024
2. Build relationships through celebrating National Reconciliation Week (NRW).
Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
Chief Data Officer
April 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
2.2 Reconciliation Working Group members to participate in an external NRW event.
27 May – 3 June 2024 & 2025
Chief Executive Officer
2.3 Encourage and support staff and senior leaders to participate in at least one external event to recognise and celebrate NRW.
27 May – 3 June 2024 & 2025
Chief Executive Officer
2.4 Organise at least one NRW event each year.
27 May – 3 June 2024 & 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor Reconciliation Working Group
2.5 Register all our NRW events on Reconciliation Australia’s NRW website.
May 2024 May 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
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3. Promote reconciliation through our sphere of influence.
3.1 Develop and implement a staff engagement strategy to raise awareness of reconciliation across our workforce.
December 2024
Reconciliation Working Group
3.2 Communicate our commitment to reconciliation publicly.
December 2023
Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor Reconciliation Working Group
3.3 Explore opportunities to positively influence external stakeholders to drive reconciliation outcomes.
June 2024 June 2025
Executive Integration and Partnerships Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor Reconciliation Working Group
4. Promote positive race relations through antidiscrimination strategies.
3.4 Collaborate with RAP organisations and other likeminded organisations to develop innovative approaches to advance reconciliation.
June 2024 June 2025
4.1 Conduct a review of HR policies and procedures to identify existing anti-discrimination provisions, and future needs.
March 2024
4.2 Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors to consult on our Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy.
March 2024
4.3 Update Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy for our organisation if required.
April 2024
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Chief Executive Officer Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
4.4 Educate senior leaders on the effects of racism. Extend education to include all MPHN Staff.
April 2024
Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025 | 23
Respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s cultural values are recognised and respected across all aspects of the organisation. MPHN is committed to improving the safety, responsiveness, accessibility, and ability of the primary healthcare system to meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
5. Increase understanding, value and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights through cultural learning.
5.1 Conduct a review of cultural learning needs within our organisation.
April 2024
Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
5.2 Consult local Traditional Owners and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors to inform our cultural learning strategy.
April 2024
5.3 Develop, implement, and communicate a cultural learning strategy document for our staff.
June 2024
Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group Chief Executive Officer Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
5.4 Provide opportunities for RAP Working Group members, HR managers and other key leadership staff to participate in formal and structured cultural learning.
June 2024 June 2025
5.5 Promote information and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dates of significance.
June 2024 June 2025
Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
6. Demonstrate respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by observing cultural protocols.
6.1. Develop, implement and communicate a cultural protocol document, including protocols for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country.
September 2024
Reconciliation Working Group Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
6.2 Increase staff’s understanding of the purpose and significance behind cultural protocols, including Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country protocols.
December 2024
6.3 Invite a local Traditional Owner or Custodian to provide a Welcome to Country or other appropriate cultural protocol at significant events throughout the year.
June 2024
6.4 Include an Acknowledgement of Country or other appropriate protocols at the commencement of important meetings.
June 2024
24 | Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group Chief Executive Officer Reconciliation Working Group All MPHN Management
7. Build respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories by celebrating NAIDOC Week.
7.1 Review Human Resource policies and procedures to remove barriers to MPHN staff participating in NAIDOC Week.
May 2024, 2025
Human Resource & Quality Manager
7.2 RAP Working Group to participate in an external NAIDOC Week event.
First week in July, 2024 & 2025
Chief Executive Officer
7.3 Promote and encourage participation in external NAIDOC events to all staff.
June 2024, 2025
Chief Executive Officer
7.4 MPHN to organise an annual NAIDOC Week event.
July 2024, 2025
Reconciliation Working Group
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor 8. Work with MPHN commissioned providers to ensure that commissioned services are culturally safe and appropriate.
8.1 Develop a localised Cultural Safety Framework for commissioned service providers.
July 2024
Senior Manager Commissioning
8.2 Provide access to and monitor provider participation in training, evaluating changes in knowledge and attitudes.
July 2024
Senior Manager Commissioning
8.3 Monitor the experience of First Nations peoples accessing commissioned services via reporting mechanisms such as surveys and patient reported measures, including pre and post impact of training.
July 2024
Senior Manager Commissioning
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025 | 25
Opportunities MPHN has a significant role in driving equitable employment opportunities internally and externally as commissioners of services within the health sector. MPHN can have a positive impact on and inspire the transformation of primary healthcare by actively involving First Nations peoples and businesses in the delivery of MPHN programs and services. This can be achieved by eliminating barriers to employment and fostering increased procurement and commercial relations.
Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
9. Improve employment outcomes by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention, and professional development.
9.1 Build understanding of current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staffing to inform future employment and professional development opportunities.
September 2024
Human Resource & Quality Manager
9.2 Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to consult on our recruitment, selection and professional development strategy.
December 2024
9.3 Develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development strategy.
December 2024
9.4 Review HR and recruitment procedures and policies to remove barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in our workplace.
March 2024
9.5 Update Recruitment Selection and Appointment Policy for our organisation if required.
September 2024
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
9.6 Advertise job vacancies to effectively reach Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants. Include ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply’ in all job advertisements.
June 2024 June 2025
Human Resource & Quality Manager
9.7 Investigate opportunities to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identified positions within MPHN and commissioned service providers.
March 2024
Human Resource & Quality Manager Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Senior Manager Commissioning
9.8 Increase the percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples employed by MPHN.
June 2024
Chief Executive Officer
June 2025
Human Resource & Quality Manager
9.9 Review existing and new contracts with MPHN Commissioning Team and service providers to expand employment and development opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
May 2024
Senior Manager Commissioning
9.10 Support targeted training and development of local Aboriginal and Torres Start Islander peoples with an interest in completing professional education in priority health fields such as mental health.
June 2024 June 2025
Senior Manager Commissioning
26 | Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025
10. Increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supplier diversity to support improved economic and social outcomes.
10.1 Develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander procurement strategy.
December 2024
Procurement Lead Senior Manager Corporate Services Senior Manager Commissioning
10.2 Review and update procurement practices to remove barriers to procuring goods and services from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.
June 2024
Procurement Lead
10.3 Develop and communicate opportunities for procurement of goods and services from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to staff.
June 2024 June 2025
Procurement Lead
10.4 Investigate Supply Nation membership.
March 2024
Procurement Lead
Senior Manager Commissioning
Senior Manager Commissioning
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager 10.5 Develop commercial relationships with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander businesses.
June 2024 June 2025
Procurement Lead Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025 | 27
Governance MPHN is committed to ensuring our reconciliation goals are achieved through implementing systems to monitor, record, celebrate and build on the progress and achievements of MPHN’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. Our progress and accountability in striving for reconciliation can be monitored and tracked through the RAP.
Action
Deliverable
Timeline
Responsibility
11. Establish and maintain an effective RWG to drive governance of the RAP.
11.1 Maintain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation on the RWG.
February 2024 February 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
12. Provide appropriate support for effective implementation of RAP commitments.
Chair Reconciliation Working Group 11.2 Establish and apply a Terms of Reference for the RWG.
February 2024 February 2025
Chair, Reconciliation Working Group
11.3 Meet at least four times per year to drive, monitor, and provide recommendations to MPHN senior management regarding RAP implementation.
February, May, August, November 2024
Chair, Reconciliation Working Group
February, May, August 2025
Reconciliation Working Group members
12.1 Engage our senior leaders and other staff in the delivery of RAP commitments.
June 2024 June 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group
12.2 Define resource needs for RAP implementation.
12.3 Define and maintain appropriate systems to track, measure, and report on RAP commitments.
June 2024 June 2025
Chief Executive Officer
August 2024 August 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
Reconciliation Working Group
Reconciliation Working Group 12.4 Appoint and maintain an internal RAP champion from senior management.
June 2024 June 2025
Chief Executive Officer
12.5 Develop and implement internal reporting mechanisms and systems to ensure reconciliation action plan activities are achieved.
February 2024
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Chief Executive Officer Senior Managers
28 | Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025
13. Build accountability and transparency through reporting RAP achievements, challenges, and learnings both internally and externally.
13.1 Contact Reconciliation Australia to verify that our primary and secondary contact details are up to date, to ensure we receive important RAP correspondence.
June 2024 June 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
13.2 Contact Reconciliation Australia to request our unique link, to access the online RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire.
1 August 2024 1 August 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
13.3 Complete and submit the annual RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia.
30 September annually
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Human Resource & Quality Manager
13.4 Submit a traffic light report to Reconciliation Australia at the conclusion of this RAP.
October 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group
13.5 Report RAP progress to staff quarterly.
December 2023 March, June, September, December 2024 March, June 2025
Reconciliation Working Group Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager
13.6 Publicly report our RAP achievements, challenges, and learnings annually.
30 September 2024, 2025
Strategic Initiatives & Engagement Advisor
13.7 Investigate participating in Reconciliation Australia’s biennial Workplace RAP Barometer.
September 2024
Chief Executive Officer Human Resource & Quality Manager Reconciliation Working Group
14. Include First Nations participation at a governance level.
15. Continue our reconciliation journey by developing our next RAP.
14.1 Review Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation and participation across MPHN’s governance structures including Community Advisory Committee and Clinical Councils.
February 2024
Chief Executive Officer
14.2 Explore the opportunity to engage First Nations people or organisations to function as cultural advisors to the MPHN Board.
March 2024
Chief Executive Officer
15.1 Register via Reconciliation Australia’s website to begin developing our next RAP.
February 2025
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager Reconciliation Working Group
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025 | 29
Contact Julie Redway Executive Commissioning and Operations 02 6923 3100 julie.redway@mphn.org.au
Maxine Honeysett Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Manager 02 6923 3100 maxine.honeysett@mphn.org.au