The strategy is part of our commitment to building a culturally safe, inclusive and responsive organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The strategy lays the foundations to progress the priorities and actions outlined in our Reconciliation Action Plan 2019–21 (RAP2)(opens in a new window). It operates jointly with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy and Aboriginal Services Strategy(opens in a new window).
Structured over three tiers, the strategy outlines a clear learning path for staff to continuously build their cultural safety competence. The completion of cultural learning offerings at each tier does not necessarily mean a person is ‘culturally aware’ or ‘culturally competent’. It is based on learning as a lifelong journey.
Tier one – building cultural awareness
Tier one is the first step in the learning journey and provides staff with an introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culture and community. This tier builds awareness, understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, beliefs and practices and focuses on a shared understanding of Australia’s history.
Tier two – developing cultural sensitivity and competency
Tier two aims to build cultural sensitivity and competency by equipping staff with the skills required to work respectfully with First Nations staff and to deliver culturally responsive services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients.
Tier three – establishing cultural safety
Tier three commits to establishing an ongoing practice that supports the delivery of outcomes where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are treated in a culturally respectful manner. This requires the establishment of policies, processes and practices that are inclusive of the cultural needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and clients.
Read the strategy
The cultural safety reflection tools
These tools have been developed to support the progression of cultural safety competence. They will assist in ongoing reflective practice, and the recognition of where you are at in your cultural safety journey.
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