This is an important step forward in the agency's diversity and inclusion work, and one which all employees will have the opportunity to be a part of.
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2022 is Get up! Stand up! Show up!. AMSA's RAP demonstrates the agency's commitment to 'standing up and showing up'. It is a map of how we will create opportunities for First Nations Australians and an inclusive agency for all Australians.
We recognise that caring for Country includes the marine environment. Our vision of safe and clean seas aligns with the important roles that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples already undertake in caring for our sea, coasts and air. AMSA is 'getting up, standing up and showing up' in relation to protecting marine Country.
In the past year, AMSA has actively engaged with Traditional Owners on a range of maritime issues. These include working with vessel operators in the Torres Strait to improve safety and conducting research into the impact of shipping in the Torres Strait. We also completed works on Goods Island (Palilag) through a cultural heritage management agreement with the Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (KNTAC).
In addition, to better support AMSA's engagement with Traditional Owners, we launched our Indigenous Engagement Guidelines.
Our RAP is a further step in the right direction, and one we will continue building on and improving in the future.