Background
Council began its formal reconciliation journey in 2019, with the adoption of the inaugural 2021-2023 Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in September 2021.
The RAP outlined over 60 actions aimed at strengthening relationships and outcomes with the shire’s three Traditional Owner groups and First Nations peoples more broadly. The majority of these actions have now been completed.
Building on this foundation and following consultation with internal and external stakeholders—including Traditional Owner groups DJAARA (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation), Taungurung Land and Waters Council, and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation—along with Council’s Reconciliation Working Group and broader community feedback, a new draft Reconciliation Plan has been developed.
This updated plan introduces a refreshed set of actions that are locally focused and culturally relevant to the Traditional Owner groups and communities within the Macedon Ranges.
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Draft Reconciliation Action Plan 2024PDF (95.73 KB)The draft RAP actions, as endorsed for consultation at the 24 July 2024 Council Meeting, for which public feedback is sought.
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July 2024 Council Meeting - Agenda excerptPDF (140.49 KB)
An excerpt from the Agenda, which provides additional context.
Feedback snapshot
During the consultation, a total of 28 submissions were received through the 'Your Say' portal and direct email. Submissions provided constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
The Draft Plan was presented to Council in September 2024 alongside the public consultation feedback. Key themes included the need for stronger engagement with Traditional Owners and other considerations for the Plan. In response, Council acknowledged the importance of dedicating additional time for meaningful consultation and resolved to reconvene in December 2024 to review the outcomes of this further engagement.
Between October and December 2024, Council collaborated closely with the three Traditional Owner groups: Taungurung Land and Waters Council, DJAARA (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation), and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. This ongoing consultation has been critical to ensuring that the Plan aligns with and supports the strategic objectives of each group.
Process and next steps
With a newly elected Councillor group to be inducted post Council elections in late 2024, it was important to provide Councillors with updated information and enable time to understand and provide feedback into the process, recommended outcomes and purpose of the draft Reconciliation Plan.
It is anticipated that the revised Draft Reconciliation Plan will now be presented to Councillors on 27 August 2025 for formal consideration and direction on the next steps, including how and when the Plan will proceed to public exhibition or adoption.
