Continuing the Journey: Unveiling Wilson Security's New 2023-2025 Reconciliation Action Plan
As part of the Wilson Group, Wilson Security has been at the forefront of fostering meaningful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Wilson Group's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a pivotal element in Wilson Security's efforts to foster reconciliation and provide tangible support to Indigenous communities across Australia.
With its 2023-2025 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) launch, Wilson Security embarks on a renewed journey of cultural understanding, community partnership, and inclusive growth.
What is a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)?
Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs) represent a significant commitment by organisations to the national Australian reconciliation movement.
Developed by Reconciliation Australia in 2006, RAPs are strategic frameworks designed to foster relationships, respect, and trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader Australian community.
RAPs serve multiple purposes: they enhance cultural understanding, promote respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, and create economic opportunities through employment and support for Indigenous businesses.
With various stages from Reflect to Elevate, each RAP is tailored to an organisation’s journey in reconciliation, symbolising a step forward in corporate social responsibility. Implementing RAPs reflects an organisation's role in addressing social issues and contributing to national equality, equity, and social justice efforts.
By making these plans public, organisations like Wilson Security not only commit to tangible actions but also engage in a process of accountability and transparency, reinforcing a culture of mutual respect within the Australian socio-cultural landscape.
The Foundation of Reconciliation
The journey of reconciliation at Wilson Security began with the company's first RAP, which laid the groundwork for over 20 unique partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and communities.
These initial steps were crucial in building a framework for continued engagement and understanding. The lessons learned and relationships forged during this period have been instrumental in shaping the company’s approach to Indigenous engagement.
Impact and Achievements
Under the first RAP, Wilson Security achieved significant milestones, including developing 13 Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) with Traditional Owner groups, a $6 million investment in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, and employing over 150 Indigenous individuals.
The second RAP aims to build on these successes with a refreshed focus and renewed commitments.
The 2023-2025 RAP: A New Chapter
In August 2023, Wilson Security launched its second Innovate RAP, which runs until July 2025. This plan builds on the foundations of the first RAP, taking a more comprehensive approach to reconciliation.
The 2023-2025 RAP's objectives focus on creating safe, inclusive workplaces, increasing cultural competency, fostering trust within communities, and providing economic opportunities through employment and business involvement.
The Wilson Group CEO, Jose Da Silva, states,
"This Plan builds on the partnerships and relationships developed from our first RAP and ensures that we take stronger steps to encourage our business to make Reconciliation everyone’s business, every day. This RAP provides the framework to embark on building a more equitable and inclusive future."
Key Deliverables of the Latest RAP
Pictured (left to right) Nick Frangoulis, Jon Larkin, Aunty Hazel Cowburn, Mark Johnstone, & Lara Donnini.
The latest RAP sets out several key deliverables, which include:
- Increasing employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- Enhancing participation of Indigenous businesses in the supply chain.
- Developing a cultural competency framework to support staff in effectively engaging with Indigenous peoples.
Quotes from the Field: Real Impact Stories
Darren Wellington's Story:
New South Wales Security Officer Darren Wellington, joined Wilson Security in 2017 after successfully obtaining his security licence, embodies the success of the company's initiatives.
"Wilson Security is the first business to give me an opportunity for employment," he remarks, highlighting the inclusive employment practices at the core of the RAP.
Over the last five years, Darren’s employment with Wilson Security has allowed him to connect with the local community on his people’s traditional lands, where he both works and lives among the Jerringa people.
Through Darren’s achievements and development within the business, his vision remains focused on further developing a presence within his community and becoming a member of the Wilson RWG.
Education and Training
A critical aspect of the RAP is education and training. The plan includes redeveloping our online cultural awareness module to include more contemporary topics in Indigenous Affairs. Our target is a completion rate of 90% across the group. We will also look to supplement this training with face-to-face training in different locations to expand people’s knowledge and competency further.
This training is essential in ensuring all employees understand and respect Indigenous cultures, traditions, and achievements.
Employment Initiatives: Making Tracks
Employment remains a primary area of focus in the RAP.
Wilson Security's 'Making Tracks' program offers an entryway into the security industry for Indigenous individuals, with over 100 participants to date. The program not only provides job opportunities but also focuses on retention and career development.
Wilson Group - Making Tracks Training Program from Wilson Group on Vimeo.
Community Engagement and Partnership
Wilson Security is committed to engaging meaningfully with local communities; this includes celebrating significant cultural days, working with Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, and developing mutually beneficial partnerships.
The company aims to raise the profile of its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees and create a peer network to support their collaboration and growth.
Supply Chain Development
Investing in the supply chain is another critical component of the RAP.
Wilson Security is dedicated to developing a framework that encourages the growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses within its supply chain. This commitment is seen as a way to contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of Indigenous communities.
A Path Forward: Cementing Our Role in Reconciliation and Community Empowerment
As Wilson Security continues its reconciliation journey, the company remains dedicated to building stronger relationships with Indigenous communities, increasing cultural understanding within its workforce, and providing meaningful opportunities for Indigenous peoples.
The 2023-2025 RAP is not just a plan on paper; it is a living document that guides daily decisions and actions, ensuring that the spirit of reconciliation is woven into the fabric of Wilson Security's business operations.
Wilson Security's continued commitment to reconciliation through its Innovative RAP underscores its dedication to social responsibility and community engagement. By fostering an environment of respect, opportunity, and partnership, Wilson Security not only contributes to the national reconciliation movement but also sets a standard for corporate Australia's role in supporting Indigenous communities.
Follow Wilson Security's transformative journey towards reconciliation and community empowerment by following us on LinkedIn.
Stay updated on our progress under the 2023-2025 Reconciliation Action Plan, celebrate our team's inspiring stories, and witness our collaborative efforts with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Your support on LinkedIn enhances our mission of fostering respect, understanding, and social responsibility.
Written by Jaime Kendler-Arnold
