AGA proud to unveil new Reconciliation Action Plan

AGA, part of the IntoWork Group, is proud to launch its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to strengthen and support its ongoing commitment to reconciliation in Australia.

The RAP features a powerful artwork by renowned Gunaikurnai artist Alfred Carter, titled “Gunaikurnai – Retaining our Culture, 2024”. This vibrant mural, which will be displayed in the Deer Park foyer, celebrates AGA’s deep connection to the Gunaikurnai nation, also known as Gippsland, where AGA operates its Apprentice Employment Services (AES) and Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

The mural symbolises the five rivers of Gippsland and depicts elders from each clan coming together to share their knowledge and traditions. Alfred Carter, a proud Gunaikurnai man and post-release artist with The Torch, draws inspiration from his grandfather and focuses on culture, ancestors and Country in his work.

“I lived with my grandfather for a couple of years when I was young, before he died. He would make boomerangs and didgeridoos the traditional ways and his brushes out of animal hair, and he would make his paint from scratch. He is my idol,” Alfred said.

“His teachings and the connection to our land have been the foundation of my art. I strive to keep our culture alive through my work and share it with the world.”

AGA RAP Project Lead Desiree Kora reflected on the journey that led to the creation of the RAP.

“The process of developing our RAP has been an incredibly empowering journey for all of us at AGA. It has been a time of significant learning and self-discovery,” Desiree said.

“The artwork by Alfred Carter is not just a visual representation; it is a symbol of our commitment to educating ourselves and continuously improving our practices. It reminds us of the importance of respecting and valuing the rich cultural heritage of the Gunaikurnai people.”

AGA CEO Nicolas West emphasised the significance of the RAP in the broader context of AGA’s mission, “The unveiling of our Reconciliation Action Plan marks the beginning of a new chapter for AGA. We are committed to a journey of understanding and appreciating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and working alongside them, our staff, customers and suppliers to create a fair and equitable future,” Mr West said.

“This is not just a plan; it is a promise to foster genuine partnerships and to ensure that the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are heard and respected in every aspect of our operations.”

The unveiling of AGA’s RAP on 30 January was celebrated with a gathering of AGA staff, the IntoWork Group, and representatives from local community groups across Melbourne.

For more information, please refer to our full RAP report here.