RAP: transition to 2018

The QTU has continued to build on its reconciliation achievements and actions, and has made further progress on its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) deliverables.

Raise internal understanding of protocols

With the direction and guidance of Gandu Jarjum, the QTU has continued to raise awareness and understanding of the Acknowledgement to Traditional Owners protocol through the creation and promotion of the Acknowledgement to Traditional Owners card, which has been made available to members at Conference, Councils, workshops and various meetings. Some members have reported that this has been the basis for some positive and educational conversations.

Celebrate National Reconciliation Week (NRW), NAIDOC Week, and other events

The QTU continues to actively promote significant dates and events through its website, Facebook page and the Journal. The QTU liaised with the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) and Cairns based members in promoting the fair. There was also the ongoing promotion of NRW and support of NAIDOC Week through the donation of merchandise to the Queensland Council of Unions’ Musgrave Park Family Fun Day stall.

Consider supplier diversity

Following recommendations from Gandu Jarjum, the QTU is investigating a possible Indigenous educators QTU shirt. Enquiries are being made in regard to identifying a suitable Indigenous supplier of the shirts and potential associated conference merchandise. In addition to this, Indigenous catering options are being explored.

RAP Working Party

QTU members have been re-engaged as part of the RAP Working Party to review the QTU’s Reflect RAP and consider how the QTU will progress to an Innovate RAP. The progression to an Innovate RAP will see further active commitments made.

While the QTU has successfully followed through on a number of the deliverables already, 2018 is looking to be an exciting time, with significant opportunities for continuing the great work already done.

Giau Nguyen                                                                                                                          Acting Industrial and Research Officer

Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 122 No 8, 3 November 2017, p26