BSL's commitment to reconciliation in action
The Brotherhood of St. Laurence has launched its 2026-2028 Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), detailing its continued commitment to walking alongside First Nations peoples and communities in ways that are accountable, respectful and grounded in self-determination.
BSL acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waterways on which our organisation operates and recognises First Nations culture as one of the richest and oldest continuous cultures in the world. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present. We commit to actively listening and working alongside First Nations people to support reconciliation through our sphere of influence. We recognise the importance of ensuring First Nations voices are at the forefront of our actions.
The new Stretch RAP sets out how BSL will contribute to reconciliation over the next three years, with a focus on creating culturally safe, equitable, and inclusive environments. It aligns with the RAP key pillars: Relationships, Respect and Opportunities, and has four priority areas:
- embedding First Nations leadership across the organisation
- addressing systemic barriers to employment and career progression
- strengthening cultural safety and capability
- ensuring transparency through clear accountabilities and reporting
The artwork featured on the cover and throughout the RAP is by Yorta Yorta/Barkindji artist Chris S. Chris explains: “This is my Country, the land on which we roam. For thousands of years, my ancestors lived, hunted and flourished.
“This is desert Country, hot land. The rivers have dried up until the next rain, and when it does rain, it pours down, with a big explosion of life and greenery.”
The artwork was purchased through The Torch , the First Peoples-led, not for profit, arts organisation that supports First Peoples with lived experience of incarceration in Victoria.
BSL Executive Director Travers McLeod said the RAP confirmed BSL’s commitment to working in genuine partnership with First Nations peoples, supporting self-determination and cultural authority.
“As an organisation, BSL is committed to listening deeply and acting on what we hear. National Reconciliation Week’s ‘All in’ theme acknowledges reconciliation is a daily commitment – and we’re committed to challenging racism and systemic injustice wherever it occurs,” Dr McLeod said.
“Reconciliation requires equity, truth-telling and structural change. Guided by the principles of self-determination, we’re ensuring First Nations voices, leadership and decision-making are central.”
“BSL reaffirms its ongoing commitment to reconciliation, truth-telling and self-determination. We are proud to stand in solidarity with First Nations people and to support Australia’s first Treaty process in Victoria.”