Today, after almost three years of reflection and preparation, we are proud to launch EDO’s inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, our Innovate RAP 2024-26 offers EDO a structured, nationally recognised framework to formalise our commitment to reconciliation.
Through this RAP, we are publicly committing to Reconciliation Australia, our clients, and to the wider EDO community that we will advance reconciliation and support First Nations self-determination. By doing so, we are joining a network of more than 3,000 organisations who have already made this commitment.
EDO CEO and RAP Champion David Morris said: “EDO’s vision of reconciliation is of an Australia where the diverse voices of First Nations peoples, and their relationships to Countries, are prioritised and respected. An Australia where the cultures of First Nations peoples and their unique connections to Country are a source of immense pride for all Australians.
“This RAP marks an important step in our reconciliation journey. We look forward to implementing our Innovate RAP and working toward a more reconciled Australia.”
EDO RAP Working Group Co-Chair and National Operations Coordinator Catheryn Cheetham said: “Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that requires vigilance, self-reflection, and accountability.
“Our Innovate RAP reflects our commitment to building more respectful and meaningful relationships with First Nations communities, engaging staff more deeply in reconciliation, and embedding our RAP commitments into our core business.”
EDO RAP Working Group Co-Chair and First Nations and Indigenous Peoples Program Director Casey Kickett said: “We are deeply grateful to the many people who have helped EDO to reach this defining milestone in our reconciliation journey and shaped our inaugural RAP.
“A special thankyou to EDO’s First Nations Strategic Advisory Committee and First Nations staff in their generous sharing of ideas and expertise, and to Garrwa and Marra man Jack Green for his artwork, Everywhere, all around us are the Dreaming Tracks and Sacred Sites (2023).”
by Garrwa and Marra man Jack Green
Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine said: “Reconciliation Australia commends Environmental Defenders Office on the formal endorsement of its inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.
“Implementing an Innovate RAP signals Environmental Defenders Office’s readiness to develop and strengthen relationships, engage staff and stakeholders in reconciliation, and pilot innovative strategies to ensure effective outcomes.
“Congratulations Environmental Defenders Office on your Innovate RAP and I look forward to following you on your ongoing reconciliation journey.”
