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Plans and policies

Council recognises that, by understanding and acknowledging our shared past, we are laying the groundwork for a future which is inclusive of all Australians, a future based on mutual respect and shared responsibility for our land.

Council continues to respect, acknowledge and protect the continuous living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through the implementation of plans and policies that progress reconciliation initiatives within Council and in the community.

Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

The RAP outlines the Council’s vision for Waverley to be a vibrant, resilient, caring and inclusive community where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people:

• Practice and celebrate their culture and heritage proudly;
• Are honoured for their survival and resilience, and supported to continue to overcome adversity; and
• Are respected and acknowledged as First Nations peoples with the right to determine their own futures.

The RAP framework focuses on relationship building, respecting and preserving Aboriginal culture and heritage, creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and next steps for continuing to progress with our reconciliation initiatives within Council and in the community.

View Waverley's Reconciliation Action Plan 2019-2021 (note: this is still valid) or find out more about Waverley’s Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Committee.

Statement of Commitment to Reconciliation

In 2000, Waverley Council was one of the first Councils in NSW to adopt a Statement of Commitment to Reconciliation with Aboriginal Australians as follows:

• Waverley Council acknowledges that Aboriginal Australians were the first people of this land and were dispossessed by the European occupation more than two centuries ago. The arrival of Europeans brought massive change to the land and to its Indigenous people.
• Waverley Council acknowledges and grieves for the loss by the Indigenous people of their land, their children, their health and their lives. However, we also celebrate their survival and the survival of their culture.
• We support the right of Aboriginal Australians to determine their own future and recognise their right to live according to their own values and customs.
• We commit ourselves to respecting Aboriginal sacred sites and special places.
• Council recognises the valuable contribution of Aboriginal Australians and looks forward to a future of mutual respect and harmony.
• Council supports Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians working together for reconciliation.

For more information, email diversity@waverley.nsw.gov.au or call 9083 8000.