National Reconciliation Week

In May 2021, Development Victoria officially launched our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), as the first step in the reconciliation journey for our organisation. 

The Reflect RAP provided us with the opportunity to shape our vision for reconciliation within our sphere of influence, and to commit to actively working towards this vision of reconciliation. 

In May 2022, as we mark National Reconciliation Week, our first RAP draws to a close. 

Over the past year, as we have worked towards the many actions outlined within the RAP, our team members have built upon their existing cultural awareness, and challenged themselves to learn more. 

A Reflect RAP encourages just that - reflection - and as an organisation we have been reflecting upon our role, what we have achieved so far, and what comes next. 

We work closely with Traditional Owners of the lands across Victoria, seeking out meaningful partnerships and opportunities to collaborate on our projects. 

“From Galkangu in Bendigo on the lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung, to the Geelong Arts Centre on Wadawurrung Country, and the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation on Wurundjeri Country, our portfolio continues to grow, allowing us to incorporate Indigenous design elements, language, planting, and story-telling as we bring these projects to life.” Said Angela Skandarajah, CEO Development Victoria. 

“We are committed to the principle of self-determination and to working alongside Victoria's First Peoples to create spaces which reflect our shared stories.” 

As we prepare to develop our next RAP and begin the Innovate phase of this process, we will take stock of where we are at as an organisation on our reconciliation journey. We will challenge ourselves to increase the impacts of our actions and work, both within our organisation, and across the state, leveraging our unique position to be brave, and make change.