Reconciliation Plan

UniStep International is dedicated to fostering an environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel respected, valued, and empowered.

Reconciliation Action Plan

UniStep International acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate. We recognize their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging, and we extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

As a company, we are committed to contributing to the journey of reconciliation, fostering respectful relationships, and promoting greater understanding of the rich heritage and history of Australia’s First Peoples.

Introduction

UniStep International is committed to respecting and honouring the Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate. Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) outlines our commitment to improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through tangible, measurable actions. This RAP aims to create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous Australians in education and employment and to foster a culture of respect, inclusion, and shared understanding within our university community.

1. Relationships

Objective: Strengthen relationships between the university and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

  • Action 1: Establish a Reconciliation Advisory Committee
  • Timeline: Year 1
  • Responsibility: Office of Indigenous Engagement
  • Measurable Outcome: Committee formed with representatives from local Indigenous communities, students, staff, and alumni. The committee will meet quarterly to guide the university’s reconciliation efforts.
  • Action 2: Organize Cultural Awareness Programs
  • Timeline: Ongoing
  • Responsibility: Human Resources and Student Services
  • Measurable Outcome: At least 80% of staff and students participate in cultural awareness training annually, with pre- and post-training evaluations to measure understanding and impact.
  • Action 3: Foster Community Partnerships
  • Timeline: Year 1-3
  • Responsibility: Community Engagement Office
  • Measurable Outcome: Formal partnerships with at least three local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organizations to support joint projects and initiatives, with annual reviews to assess progress.

2. Respect

Objective: Promote respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and contributions within the university community.

  • Action 1: Acknowledgement of Country
  • Timeline: Immediate and ongoing
  • Responsibility: UniStep International Leadership and Event Coordinators
  • Measurable Outcome: Acknowledgement of Country delivered at all major events, with guidelines provided to staff and students to ensure consistency and respect.
  • Action 2: Celebrate National Reconciliation Week (NRW) and NAIDOC Week
  • Timeline: Annually
  • Responsibility: Office of Indigenous Engagement and Marketing
  • Measurable Outcome: Host a minimum of one event during NRW and NAIDOC Week that involve the broader community and raises awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

3. Opportunities

Objective: Create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in education, employment, and leadership.

  • Action 1: Increase interaction between UniStep International students and staff and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young learners and community.
  • Timeline: Year 2-5
  • Responsibility: Admissions and Student Support Services / Events Coordinator
  • Measurable Outcome: Increase interaction with Indigenous community by 20% over five years through targeted outreach, events, and student interaction initiatives.

4. Governance, Tracking, and Reporting

Objective: Ensure the effective implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the RAP.

  • Action 1: Appoint a RAP Champion
  • Timeline: Immediate
  • Responsibility: College Director’s Office
  • Measurable Outcome: Appointment of a senior executive as RAP Champion to oversee the implementation of the RAP, with quarterly progress reports submitted to the College Director.
  • Action 2: Annual RAP Review and Reporting
  • Timeline: Annually
  • Responsibility: Reconciliation Advisory Committee
  • Measurable Outcome: Publish an annual RAP report detailing progress against each action, with feedback from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders.
  • Action 3: Update RAP Based on Evaluation
  • Timeline: Every 3 years
  • Responsibility: Reconciliation Advisory Committee
  • Measurable Outcome: Comprehensive RAP review and update every three years, with revised actions based on evaluation findings and stakeholder consultations.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us via our website contact page.

Conclusion:

UniStep International is dedicated to fostering an environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel respected, valued, and empowered. Through this Reconciliation Action Plan, we aim to build strong relationships, promote cultural understanding, and create lasting opportunities that contribute to reconciliation and the well-being of Indigenous communities. We will continuously evaluate and refine our efforts to ensure they are impactful and meaningful.