A landmark moment took place during National Reconciliation Week 2026 with the launch of Australia's first place-based Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in Kinjarling (Albany).
Developed through deep community collaboration, the Great Southern Place-based Reconciliation Action Plan represents a significant shift in how reconciliation can be achieved at a regional level. Unlike traditional RAPs, which are typically developed to be organisation-centric, this groundbreaking initiative has been co-created in partnership with the local community to reflect community-identified priorities and support genuine self-determination.
The Great Southern RAP has been developed in partnership with Reconciliation Australia through Reconciliation WA's Rising Program, an innovative model for reconciliation designed to support place-based initiatives and community-led decision making.
The program follows three horizons:
- The first horizon, Respect Rising, is focused on deep listening and learning in order to form a shared understanding of the local reconciliation landscape. This involves understanding community priorities, ways of working and progress markers.
- The second horizon, Relationships Rising, establishes the Great Southern Reconciliation Action Network (RAN), bringing together Aboriginal organisations, community leaders, local governments and allies to help shape the RAP and co-design governance structures.
- The third horizon, Opportunities Rising, translates community priorities into practical commitments and actions. Participating organisations have committed to one or more of the RAP deliverables across Truth-telling, Healing and Justice actions – determined by the region.
A model for the future
The Great Southern Place-based RAP represents a national first and serves as a proof of concept for Reconciliation WA's Rising Program. It demonstrates how place-based approaches can build stronger partnerships and create lasting impact for communities. Importantly, decision-making remains with local people, strengthening community participation and supporting long-term self-determination.
Anglicare WA is honoured to have walked alongside community partners, Aboriginal organisations and reconciliation leaders in supporting this important work and look forward to contributing to the ongoing implementation of the Great Southern Place-based Reconciliation Action Plan.
