Banyule Community Health values the important contribution First Nations peoples have made and continue to make to Australia’s history, social, economic, and cultural wellbeing.
We will continue to build awareness, understanding and appreciation of First Nations peoples’ history and culture.
Our priority is to ensure our services work towards Closing the Gap, by working in partnership with First Nations community members, so they are empowered and supported to be in control of their lives. We commit to supporting our workforce to provide culturally safe services to First Nations community members.
We encourage First Nations Peoples to work with us, please visit: Work with us – Banyule Community Health (bchs.org.au)
Statement of Commitment to First Nations Peoples
Banyule Community Health stands with First Nations people and acknowledges the deeply harmful impacts of colonisation.
You can read our Statement of Commitment to First Nations Peoples by clicking on the image below.
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan December 2022 – December 2024
You can read our RAP by clicking on the image below.
Yaluk Wilam – The Story
You can listen to artist Simone Thompson sharing the Dreaming Story of Yaluk Willam by clicking on the video link.
Reconciliation Action Plan Launch – 15 December 2022
Embracing our true history – Banyule Community Health launch Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan
On 15 December 2022, Banyule Community Health launched an Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in a moving celebration of culture at its West Heidelberg site. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Zeta Thomson led a meaningful smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country on a cold December day. Aunty Zeta stressed the importance of connection to country, celebrating ceremony, and the deep impact of colonisation.
The RAP was developed under the guidance of Karen Milward (Yorta Yorta Woman / Aboriginal Consultant), and a Steering Committee of staff, partners, and community members. At the launch Karen issued a rallying call to all – “Bringing our RAP to life is everyone’s business”. The RAP builds on many years of commitment to our First Nations community members and solidifies commitments in line with Reconciliation Australia. We join Reconciliation Australia and thousands of other organisations who are activating reconciliation through a Reconciliation Action Plan.
The RAP was developed over the past 18 months through Covid times with a commitment to deep listening. At times the process was confronting and addressed challenging issues. This was necessary to ensure the RAP meets community needs and the requirements of Reconciliation Australia. We consulted widely with Elders, local schools, clients, and the Djilak Djirri Playgroup members to make sure our RAP is meaningful and achievable.
Banyule Community Health CEO, Mick Geary observed the unique time we are in for real change.
“We are indebted to the generosity provided to us by leaders, Elders, and the local community as we search for a process of truth and reconciliation. What an incredible opportunity we have right now to embrace our true history in this country.”
You can learn more about Reconciliation Australia here: Home – Reconciliation Australia
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Significant Dates 2024
You can view or download the poster highlighting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander significant dates for 2024 here.
Banyule Community Health acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands where we provide our services. We pay our respects to Elders and leaders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge the enduring impacts of colonisation and the sorrow of the Stolen Generations. We also recognise the resilience, strength, and pride of the First Nations’ Peoples.
Photos: National Reconciliation Week 2023