Dr Lisa O’Brien: My Commitment to Reconciliation

Today, as The Smith Family launches our 2017–20 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), I wanted to share a few personal thoughts.

I feel very privileged to have been part of a journey which commenced for us over six years ago now.

This is our third RAP and we have come a long way.

Looking back, I remember signing off on our first RAP. In fact, signing off the document was one of the first major decisions I made when I came into this role as CEO.

I was acutely aware of the responsibility inherent in our vision, to deliver on “a better future for young Australians in need.”

I firmly believed that having a RAP would support this vision and enable us to provide effective support for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children we work with.

In many ways, my personal journey of learning and understanding has aligned with the journey we’ve taken as an organisation.

Our organisational journey has been about many things, including developing more effective systems and processes. The establishment of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, an action from our first RAP, was a significant first step. This group brings a range of different perspectives and voices to the table, informing our work and challenging us to continue to do better.

We’ve taken tangible actions to support better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our focus on respectful Partnership Development is one example. Last year we also hosted a Treaty Forum, on the advice of our Advisory Group, opening up a discussion and expanding our knowledge and understanding of the important issues of concern to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians regarding sovereignty in Australia.

Along the way we’ve learned a lot.

Thinking about my own journey, there have been many events that have shaped my thinking, growing my awareness and reinforcing my commitment to Reconciliation.

Back in 2011, I saw a real opportunity to work in partnership with our team members, families and supporters to make our organisational vision a reality. And through our RAPs, we have. I feel extremely proud of what we’ve achieved so far.

Along with our team members, whose efforts has been outstanding, I would like to call out the members of our Advisory Group on Issues Concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples for all their support. 

In particular, I acknowledge the personal support and guidance provided by Leah Armstrong who participated in a two-way mentoring relationship with me.

I was thrilled too when Leah agreed to join our Smith Family Board – she is the first Torres Strait Islander director of our Board. We are honoured to have her.

Finally, I thank the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families we support.

Our new RAP signifies our deep commitment to them. Through it, we are supporting Australia’s First Peoples to achieve self-determination and addressing the education inequities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

With this RAP, our journey continues.

Dr Lisa O’Brien
CEO, The Smith Family