Organisations can renew their commitment to promoting harmony, understanding, and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians during National Reconciliation Week (NRW). Every year, from May 27 to June 3, this week honors important turning points in Australia’s reconciliation process.

Workplaces that want to actively engage in NRW can use a range of heartfelt gestures, events, and activities to raise awareness and understanding:

1. Acknowledgment and Welcome to Country: In order to acknowledge and show respect for the Traditional Custodians of the land, open meetings and activities with an Acknowledgment of Country. To establish a stronger link with the cultural significance of the workplace, think about asking local Indigenous Elders to lead a Welcome to Country ceremony at the start of the week for example.
2. Cultural Competency Training: To improve staff members’ comprehension of Indigenous cultures, histories, and viewpoints, provide them with cultural competency training. This helps to create a courteous and inclusive work atmosphere in addition to raising awareness.
3. Indigenous Art and Décor: To honour the rich cultural legacy of Australia’s First Nations peoples, display Indigenous art in your place of employment. To create a visually inclusive ambiance in your company, think about adding Indigenous themes into your decor.
4. Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs): Create and carry out a Reconciliation Action Plan that exemplifies your commitment to reconciliation with particular projects and actions. A RAP gives organisations a framework for helping to create opportunities and foster relationships with Indigenous Australians.
5. Indigenous Guest Speakers: Invite Indigenous speakers to share their experiences, thoughts, and insights with the workforce. Employees will get a rare opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of Indigenous traditions and the significance of reconciliation.
6. Film Screenings and Discussions: Arrange for the showing of Indigenous documentaries or films that delve into the history and folklore of Australia’s Indigenous population. After these screenings, have conversations to promote understanding and communication.
7. Traditional Food and Activities: During NRW, take part in traditional Indigenous activities and cuisine. Think about hiring Indigenous Australian caterers, serving native cuisine, and planning events like painting classes or cultural shows.
8. Take Part in NRW Events: Get involved in regional NRW events and community-wide initiatives. This links the workplace to the larger community while also exhibiting support for the reconciliation effort.
9. Workplace Reconciliation Awards: Establish awards that honor and commend initiatives for workplace reconciliation. Reward groups or individuals who have proven to be dedicated to promoting inclusion and understanding.

Observing National Reconciliation Week at work offers a chance to actively contribute to a future that is more inclusive, respectful, and united, as well as to reflect on Australia’s journey towards reconciliation. Through the implementation of these gestures and activities, organisations can significantly contribute to the advancement of reconciliation in Australian workplaces.