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WA improves Reconciliation Action Plan to support better justice outcomes
The Western Australian Department of Justice has revamped its Reconciliation Action Plan to improve justice outcomes for Aboriginal people and their communities.
Naomi Neilson
Over the next two years, the Department of Justice will operate under an updated Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) that includes measures to improve engagement with Aboriginal stakeholders, increases its cultural capability and justice outcomes, and expands opportunities for Aboriginal employees across Western Australia.
Commenting on the updated RAP, director-general Dr Adam Tomison said justice was one of the few entities that had achieved a seamless transition.
“There is a renewed focus on developing and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal people, including fostering respect through the truth-telling process.
“We have chosen to pursue outcomes that are brave rather than safe, with initiatives ranging from anti-discriminatory strategies, to improving justice and employment outcomes for Aboriginal people and mandating training for staff,” Dr Tomison said.
Over the last few years – and under the previous RAPs– the department introduced the Custody Notification System, under which Western Australian police must notify a dedicated service every time an Aboriginal person is detained; and the Aboriginal Mediation Service, which seeks to resolve conflicts before they escalate.
The department also met the objective of forming the Aboriginal justice advisory committee, made up of Aboriginal leaders from across the state.
“Ending systemic discrimination and building culturally safe infrastructure requires us to commit every day to Closing the Gap and empowering Aboriginal Australians to reach their full potential,” Dr Tomison added.
Naomi Neilson
Naomi Neilson is a senior journalist with a focus on court reporting for Lawyers Weekly.
You can email Naomi at:
