Work starts on the ADC’s Reconciliation Action Plan

In 2021 the Australian Dental Council is starting its formal reconciliation journey with the development of the organisation’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The RAP will provide a structured plan that will drive our contribution to reconciliation, internally and within the communities we operate.

Our journey will start with the development of a Reflect RAP. The first level RAP type, it will set out the foundations of our reconciliation approach. It will outline the structure and time needed to scope and develop relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and shape our vision for reconciliation. It is an important first step as it will help in the production of future RAPs that are meaningful, mutually beneficial, and sustainable.

A Working Group (the Group) has been established to lead the RAP’s development. Made up of eight representatives from inside and outside the ADC, the Group is responsible for the RAP’s development, implementation, and reporting. It is co-chaired by the Goreng Goreng, Gangulu and Biri Gubba man and President of the Indigenous Dentist’s Association of Australia Dr Gari Watson and ADC’s People and Culture Director, Tara Waller.

The Group’s first meeting is 30 July 2021.

The ADC acknowledges that the journey to reconciliation is long and requires meaningful action and ongoing reflection and learning. The development of our first RAP is a vital first step in our reconciliation journey and delivering on our commitment to use our position to strive towards better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.