NSW Social Service Peak Body Launches Reconciliation Action Plan

NCOSS today released its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), building on the organisation’s efforts to support and advocate for First Nations peoples and communities.

NCOSS CEO Joanna Quilty said the RAP was an important next step for the organisation, committing it to embed the principles of self-determination, empowerment, and collaboration in its work.

“NCOSS’s core purpose has remained constant since it was founded after the Great Depression: a NSW free from poverty and inequality,” Ms Quilty said.

“This vision is in absolute alignment with advancing the rights and justice of First Nations people.

“I am proud of the work NCOSS has done to bring together its members, civil society, government and business to create a more equal and inclusive NSW.

“However, we must acknowledge the history of the social services sector and how it has treated First Nations peoples, for without that acknowledgement, we cannot move forward.

“At its core, reconciliation is about truth telling, acknowledging past abuse, and illuminating current policies that perpetuate racism and inequality.

“This RAP is a small but important step in helping NCOSS build on the work we already do alongside First Nations peaks and other organisations that support First Nations peoples.”

The NCOSS RAP has been developed with input from First Nations partners, led by First Nations consultant Rowena Lawrie from Yamurrah.

The implementation will be guided by the NCOSS First Partners and Advisors Group, chaired by Boe Rambaldini, Bundjalung Elder and Associate Professor Macquarie University; and Belinda Field, CEO Yerin Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health Services.

Ms Quilty said the change in Federal Government presents fresh opportunities for the sector.

“With a new Government comes new opportunities,” Ms Quilty said.

“There have been some encouraging early indications from the Albanese Government that it intends to make big progress in the support and representation of First Nations peoples.

“As the peak social services body for NSW, we look forward to offering support to the new Government in any way we can – particularly around Voice, Treaty and Truth.”

The NCOSS RAP contains 15 clearly defined actions, with a set of deliverables and a timeline for each commitment.

To read a copy of the NCOSS RAP, visit www.ncoss.org.au/about/reflect-reconciliation-action-plan/

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Media contact: Nick Trainor 0407 078 138