Federation Council Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group (RAPWG)

Federation Council acknowledges the Wiradjuri and Bangerang Peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters where we live, work, and gather. We extend our deepest respect to Elders past and present, and acknowledge their unbroken connection to Country and Community.

We are currently building our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), a shared commitment to walking together, listening, and creating real change.

To help guide this important work, we are putting together a RAP Working Group, and we’d love for you to be part of it. We are looking for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, and non-Indigenous advocates to join us.

Whether you bring lived experience, local knowledge, or a passion for community, your voice matters.

HOW TO APPLY

Prefer to speak rather than write? Call Amber on 040 7998 777 to complete your Expression of Interest over the phone.

1. Please review the RAP Working Group Terms of Reference available from this page, prior to submitting your application.

2. Complete and submit the online EOI form below before 5pm, Friday 15 January, 2027. Download a PDF printable version of the form.

WHAT THE GROUP IS HERE TO DO

The Working Group brings people together to help build, deliver, and support Federation Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), guided by Reconciliation Australia’s framework.

Here is how the group will make an impact:

• Helping Council understand what we can achieve and shaping a clear vision for reconciliation in our region.
• Advising us on how, when, and who to connect with for meaningful cultural guidance and consultation.
• Making sure our reconciliation actions fit seamlessly into our everyday operations, local policies, and long-term community plans.
• Keeping an eye on deadlines, checking progress across Council departments, and helping share progress updates with Reconciliation Australia and our community.
• Promoting reconciliation, cultural awareness, and mutual respect right across our community.

WHO MAKES UP THE GROUP?

The group includes up to 15 volunteer members who bring a wide mix of community and Council voices. Positions are unpaid, but your time and insight directly shape our region's future.

The team will include:

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Community Advisors

Local First Nations residents (18+), community members with traditional, cultural, or historical ties to our lands and waters, or identifying Council staff.

Non-Indigenous Community Advocates

Local allies passionate about cultural learning, supporting self-determination, and driving positive change.

Councillor Delegates

Three elected Councillors.

Council Team Members

A senior Council leader serving as Chair and RAP Champion, alongside staff representatives from key department areas.

We may also invite local guest experts to share input for specific projects as needed.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We will look at applications using the following criteria:

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisors:

• Understanding of local First Nations priorities across our council area.
• Active involvement or interest in local First Nations community networks and advocacy.
• Strong connections to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities or organizations.
• A desire to offer constructive guidance to help shape Council's direction.

For Non-Indigenous Community Advocates:

• A clear commitment to reconciliation, cultural learning, and supporting self-determination.
• A willingness to connect with the broader community to build bridges, foster respect, and share RAP projects.
• Enthusiasm for turning reconciliation ideas into real, practical action across local networks.

For All Group Members:

• Time and commitment to join meetings and support key community events (like National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week).
• A collaborative, respectful approach in line with Council's Code of Conduct.

MEETING DETAILS

• Where: Meetings are held at the Corowa Civic Centre, with an online option via Google Meet.
• How Long: About 1.5 hours per meeting.
• How Often: We will meet monthly while we build the RAP, then move to quarterly meetings once the plan is up and running.

INFORMATION & ENQUIRIES

For further information regarding the RAP Working Group or the EOI process, please contact:

Community and Economic Development Team

Federation Council

Phone: (02) 6033 8999

Email: communityevents@federationcouncil.nsw.gov.au

Click here to view form.