Gamuda Rise NewsletterGamuda Rise NewsletterRAP artwork: Together, Weaving Our Future designed by Wakka Wakka man David Williams, Executive Director at Gilimbaa.
Burson Cohn & Wolfe (BCW)
The Australian team recently launched its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), marking a major first step towards building positive partnerships between Gamuda and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In Australia, organisations have been implementing RAPs since 2006, which are effectively a blueprint for organisations to take meaningful action to support First Nations self-determination. Reconciliation is an ongoing journey to build relationships, respect and trust between Indigenous Australians and the wider community. This includes operating in a way that is equitable for all and enhancing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities in society and the construction and infrastructure sector.
The RAP will serve as the team’s framework for engaging, respecting, and creating meaningful partnerships with local Traditional Owners on every project delivered in Australia. This includes creating opportunities for upskilling and training, diverse hiring, and engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses across all aspects of future projects.
Ewan Yee, Executive Director of Gamuda Australia said, “In building our business in Australia, we aim to contribute to the local infrastructure landscape and leave a positive social legacy in the communities in which we operate. That includes ensuring our offices and worksites are culturally safe, welcoming and respectful places for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and businesses.
“Improving our understanding of reconciliation and supporting positive engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities is fundamental to achieving this,” he said.
An important part of the RAP is the artwork that symbolises the team’s reconciliation journey, its pledge to build and maintain strong connections, and Gamuda’s long-term commitment to Australia. Titled ‘Together, Weaving Our Future’, the artwork was created by Indigenous designer and Wakka Wakka man David Williams.
At the heart of the artwork is the ‘Weave’, a symbol of reconciliation that celebrates coming together to change and grow and creating positive and meaningful actions now and into the future. Alongside the ‘Weave’ are our people, highlighting the strong connections between Malaysia and the Australian team. Each of Gamuda’s intentions – respect, trust, connections, positive impact, sustainability, and innovation, are also highlighted in the artwork.
The Australian team’s journey towards reconciliation has started with improving the understanding of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through our tender activities, we have established partnerships with local Indigenous organisations, including the New South Wales Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, to support greater participation by Aboriginal people in government construction projects. We have partnered with Goanna Services to provide tunnel boring machine training and employment to Goanna staff to facilitate development and upskilling opportunities on future projects.
Sianne Bennett, Head of Human Resources said, “Gamuda is a culturally safe and inclusive place to work. Everyone in our team has a valuable role in weaving a more equitable future together.
“Our Reconciliation Action Plan is an important part of our reconciliation journey and the blueprint for ensuring we engage with respect and create meaningful partnerships with local Traditional Owners on every project we deliver,” said Sianne.
The RAP is part of the Australian team’s broader commitment to social responsibility and empowering people, as outlined in the team’s Seeds for Growth Sustainability Framework.
Visit the Gamuda Australia website to read the team’s Reconciliation Action Plan.