Goodstart is proud to reaffirm its commitment to their reconciliation journey with the launch of the organisation’s 2024 – 2027 Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
From Gubbi Gubbi lands on the east coast of Australia, across to Wajuk in Western Australia, up to Larrakia in the Northern Territory and everywhere in between, Goodstart is excited to continue on a reconciliation journey - walking together with families, children, and communities.
This is the organisation’s third RAP and second stretch RAP with new aspirational goals to help ensure the next generation of Australia’s children grow up with understanding of and connection to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture.
CEO Ros Baxter said she was honoured to be a part of this new chapter of the organisation’s journey as reconciliation is not just a goal at Goodstart – it’s at the heart of all we do.
“Goodstart began its reconciliation journey a decade ago, and our commitment remains unwavering. It is with immense pride that we launch Goodstart’s 2024-2027 Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, a reflection of our growth, learning and strengthened connections over the past 10 years.” She said.
“What began as a commitment has evolved into a continuous journey of learning, listening, and deepening relationships. We believe that reconciliation is about more than just words – it is about meaningful actions.
“The launch of our new Stretch RAP marks the start of a new phase in this journey, with bolder and braver actions to create greater positive social change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”
To mark the launch of the new Stretch RAP, an official launch event was hosted at Goodstart head office in Meanjin (Brisbane) with centre based Goodstarters, respected Elders, proud allies and community leaders and partners in attendance online and in person.
Part of the event was the official unveiling of ‘The Heart of Reconciliation’, a powerful artwork created by former Goodstart parent and Wakka Wakka artist David Williams representing Goodstart’s RAP journey and path forward.
Goodstart’s expanded second Stretch RAP reflects the organisation’s aspiration to drive deeper social impact.
Over the past three years, guided by the first Stretch RAP, Goodstart has amplified First Nations voices, fostered cultural knowledge among employees and engaged in deeper critical reflection.
Goodstart’s second Stretch RAP introduces more courageous commitments, including, but not limited to greater representation of First Nations employees in leadership roles and enhanced partnerships and opportunities for First Nations businesses and suppliers.
With more than 61,000 children attending Goodstart centres across 650 communities, Goodstart recognises it has both the opportunity and responsibility to shape future leaders by fostering respect and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and perspectives.
Goodstart would like to express thanks to the respected Elders, community leaders and partners who have helped to shape the new Stretch RAP providing invaluable wisdom, ensuring that our journey remains authentic and focused. Through their support and guidance important reconciliation milestones have been reached including:
- All 653 Goodstart centres actively engage with Reconciliation Australia’s Narragunnawali platform.
- Over 304 centres have published RAPs, outlining actions to advance reconciliation in their communities.
- 14,000 Goodstarters have completed Arrilla Cultural Competency training, embedded within our practice support forums and learning circles.
- 6% of Goodstart trainees over the past year identified as First Nations, creating more pathways for employment.
- 7.4% of children enrolled at Goodstart today identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, up from 5% in 2019.
- Our eight-year partnership with the Baya Gawiy Early Learning Unit in Fitzroy Crossing continues to provide educators with immersive learning experiences in remote Aboriginal communities, bringing valuable insights back to Goodstart.
- Hundreds of Goodstart centres have participated in local communities of practice, deepening cultural knowledge, building partnerships, and developing employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
As part of the launch event, Aunty Ruth Ghee was joined by some of the children of Goodstart Murarrie for a special musical performance. Take a look at the video here.
Download a copy of Goodstart’s 2024 – 2027 Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan here and learn more about reconciliation at Goodstart here.
