The State of Reconciliation in Australia
Abstract for The Lowitja Institute International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference 2016
8-10 November, Melbourne, Australia
Theme: Indigenous Health and Wellbeing: Future opportunities and pathways
Sub theme: Contribution of multiple and diverse identities to nation building
Twenty-five years after the establishment of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, the State of Reconciliation in Australia report uses a five-dimensional framework to measure and analyse Australia’s progress towards reconciliation over this time and set out a roadmap for a reconciled Australia. The five dimensions used to measure reconciliation in Australia are: race relations, equality and equity; institutional integrity; unity; and historical acceptance. These dimensions’ weave together to paint the full picture of reconciliation in Australia and are used to highlight the key steps required to work towards reconciliation over the next 25 years.
Importantly, along with the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians, the five dimensions of reconciliation place Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ strength, identity and healing as a core foundation for reconciliation in Australia. This includes the place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, histories and knowledges within broader Australian society and how the broader environmental and social context in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples live affects their health, wellbeing and identity.
Mr Justin Mohamed, CEO of Reconciliation Australia, will present the findings of the State of Reconciliation in Australia report and explore the critical role that reconciliation can play in Indigenous peoples’ health and wellbeing. Through the five dimensions of reconciliation Mr Mohamed will also explore the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identities to the Australian nation and how we can create a society that values and recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories as a proud part of our shared national identity.