Our Vision for Reconciliation
To be culturally responsible and committed to social justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We will be unified, positive and healthy.
Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
UnitingCare Health employ Indigenous Workplace Advisors who provide advice and links to local indigenous communities.
An acknowledgement of country takes place at informal and small events such as meetings. At larger events, such as the opening of a new hospital or service, local Elder’s are invited to perform a Welcome to Country ceremony.
As part of constructing the new St Stephen’s Hospital in Hervey Bay, UnitingCare Health worked extensively with Elders and the local community to include culturally appropriate spaces in the hospital. Information provided by the Elders has been incorporated into a local area workforce plan.
During Reconciliation week and NAIDOC week in 2013 a number of events were held to strengthen relationships with local indigenous communities and the cultural awareness of staff.
We Walk Together artwork
In 2012, Aboriginal artist Robert Barton, a Kalkadoon man from far North Western Queensland, was commissioned by Uniting Care Queensland to create an artwork that reflects the integrity and collaborative approach of the UnitingCare Queensland Reconciliation Action Plan journey. This artwork is featured above.