We are proud to present EWON’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Our Reflect RAP is the first in a series of four RAP’s (Reflect, Innovate, Stretch, Elevate) that provide a framework for everyone at EWON to support the national reconciliation movement.
EWON's journey towards reconciliation started over 10 years ago, when we engaged an Aboriginal Community Engagement Officer to establish an Aboriginal Community Outreach Program for communities across NSW. We have continually expanded our focus by introducing cultural awareness training for all staff, developing culturally appropriate EWON resources and celebrating significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events throughout each year.
Our Reflect RAP acknowledges the work we have done so far but also outlines how we will progress our existing support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our RAP will be implemented through changes to policies, but most importantly, it will be firmly embedded into our day-to-day operations.
We are committed to:
- increasing and enhancing access to our services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- ensuring the services we offer to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are provided in the most effective and appropriate way, based on our growing understanding of their needs and cultural practices
- increasing EWON staff awareness, understanding and acceptance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the issues they face
- enhancing our work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by expanding our stakeholder networks, building partnerships and collaborating with organisations that work with communities across New South Wales.
We will build on our existing work to establish new initiatives that work towards reconciliation by promoting respect and creating equal opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples.
Download the Reconciliation Action Plan (PDF 5MB).
Janine Young
Ombudsman
Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW
About the artwork
"Always Was Always Will Be", by Maddison Gibbs, a proud Barkindji woman, is an acknowledgement of the country on which we meet, live and play. It is inspired by the local landscapes, food, bush medicine and healing plants. Read more about Maddison and her work in our RAP.
