The draft Aboriginal Action Plan 2024-2029 is an important document that when adopted will guide the City of Whittlesea’s reconciliation efforts for the next five years.

The draft plan has been developed through preliminary engagement with representatives of the local Aboriginal community.

We will continue listening and learning as we finalise, implement, review and revise this plan.

The City of Whittlesea has a long-standing commitment to reconciliation and self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

The Aboriginal Action Plan will build on the progress made through Council’s first Reconciliation Action Plan and subsequent Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan.

Our Aboriginal Action Plan aims to recognise and enable Aboriginal self-determination by:

• Prioritising culture
• Addressing trauma and supporting healing
• Addressing racism and promoting cultural safety
• Prioritising decision-making power in areas that impact their communities.

It also aims to support the Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Strategy 2021-2026; the Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework 2018-2023; the Treaty process; and the Victorian Closing the Gap Implementation Plan.

The draft Aboriginal Action Plan addresses seven action areas set out in the Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Strategy 2021-2026

These action areas were developed by the Victorian Government in consultation with local governments and the broader Aboriginal community.

They also align with Council’s Integrated Planning Framework and accurately reflect our journey towards reconciliation.