Community and Oral Health launches second Reconciliation Action Plan

COH RAP Working Group pictured at the launch of the new RAP.

Community and Oral Health (COH) have launched their second Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), reinforcing their commitment to advancing health equity and cultural safety across services on Brisbane’s Northside.

The RAP, endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, builds on the success of COH’s first plan and outlines actions to strengthen relationships, respect and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Since launching their first RAP in 2017, COH has completed 56 of 62 identified actions, with the remaining initiatives continuing to progress.

Key achievements include establishing a locally tailored Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Awareness and Capability Program, strengthening health governance and outcomes reporting and facilitating ongoing Yarning Circles with Elders and community members.

COH Director of Nursing and RAP Co-Chair Tanya Beaumont said reconciliation is a shared responsibility.

“Reconciliation is not just an aspiration, it is a responsibility we all share. Through this RAP, we aim to change hearts and minds,” Ms Beaumont said.

COH Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and RAP Co-Chair Paul Drahm said the new plan will drive meaningful, lasting change, with a focus over the next two years on enhancing cultural capability, strengthening community relationships, and delivering more inclusive services.

“Our RAP is more than a framework. It is a call to action to create inclusive systems that reflect the rights, voices and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Mr Drahm said.

Reconciliation Australia Chief Executive Officer Karen Mundine congratulated COH on the endorsement of its second Innovate RAP.

“This Innovate RAP is an opportunity for COH to strengthen relationships, gain crucial experience and nurture connections that will support future reconciliation commitments,” Ms Mundine said.

Community and Oral Health provide care across homes, oral health clinics, mobile dental vans, community residential facilities and bedded services throughout North Brisbane.