THE Town of Bassendean has drafted a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and is currently asking for community feedback.

This is the town’s third RAP and it is meant to last until 2031.

According to the town, the past RAPs delivered tangible outcomes such as cultural training for employees, a review of the purchasing policy to support Aboriginal businesses, consultation with Traditional Owners and local Elders to discuss Aboriginal heritage site conservation and dual naming, art events, and additional resources to the library to preserve Aboriginal material.

The proposed new plan continues this work through four key outcomes: Authentic engagement and relationship building, increasing staff and community understanding of Noongar history and culture, enhancing cultural visibility in public spaces and programs, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Town of Bassendean chief executive officer Cameron Woods said the new RAP seeks to ensure the town’s actions are practical, locally relevant and achievable.

“The plan is intended to provide a strategic framework for council to continue building meaningful relationships, promoting respect and creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” he said.

The draft was informed by consultation across online surveys, community and staff workshops, and one-on-one stakeholder discussions.

“Feedback was received from a range of local stakeholders, including residents, First Nations people, local schools, community groups, sporting clubs and Aboriginal organisations,” Mr Woods said.

“The online survey received 47 responses, with 21 per cent of respondents identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and 14 people participated in community workshops.”

Mr Woods said the town recognises the importance of community feedback.

“Reconciliation must be informed by local voices and lived experience,” he said.

“The consultation process helped identify priorities such as cultural awareness training, community events and celebrations, support for local Aboriginal businesses where practicable, and opportunities to increase First Nations art, signage and cultural visibility across the town.”

The town is now seeking for community feedback on the draft plan.

“Feedback received through this stage will be reviewed and considered, and amendments may be made to strengthen the final document, improve clarity, and ensure it reflects community input before it is presented to council for final adoption,” Mr Woods said.

Residents will be able to provide feedback until Wednesday, July 8.