Closing The Gap

The Closing The Gap initiative is going to mean that ACCOs like Keedac are offered programs to run, by Federal and State governments, as the Lead Agency or Sole Agency, a huge improvement on past practice which has seen corporate service providers treat their ACCO partners as a minor add-on

Keedac looks forward to taking on all services for the Aboriginal community in the Wheatbelt, eventually, and has been lifting standards of Governance, Staff Qualifications and its Strategy Plan to be able to present Keedac The Aboriginal Corporation as the ACCO of choice for the Wheatbelt

The Closing The Gap initiative embraces three further topics, with the Keedac view set out below:

Topic 1: Place-based, culturally informed engagement with Aboriginal children, families, and communities:

Ensuring effective engagement with Aboriginal children, families, and communities requires a comprehensive understanding of their unique cultural contexts and histories. This approach is essential for fostering trust, respect, and meaningful collaboration. In our Wheatbelt region, it is imperative to recognize the diversity within Aboriginal communities and the significance of place-based initiatives in addressing their specific needs, which Keedac, as the Wheatbelt Aboriginal Corporation, is best placed to understand.

Cultural competency is foundational to engaging with Aboriginal communities. This involves acknowledging the historical injustices they have faced, including colonization, dispossession, and systemic discrimination. Understanding the cultural values, protocols, and practices of different Aboriginal groups is essential for building authentic relationships and ensuring culturally safe spaces.

One approach to culturally informed engagement is through community-led initiatives that prioritize local knowledge and leadership. This involves actively involving Aboriginal elders, knowledge holders, and community members in decision-making processes. By centering their voices and perspectives, services and programs can be tailored to meet the unique needs and aspirations of the community.

Education plays a crucial role in fostering cultural understanding and respect. Incorporating Aboriginal perspectives into school curricula and providing cultural competency training for professionals working with Aboriginal children and families are vital steps towards building inclusive and equitable environments.

Furthermore, partnerships between Aboriginal organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations are essential for delivering culturally responsive services. These partnerships are welcomed by Keedac, and should be based on mutual respect, shared decision-making, and a commitment to reconciliation and self-determination.

In summary, effective engagement with Aboriginal children, families, and communities requires a culturally informed approach that values local knowledge, fosters trust, and prioritizes community-led initiatives. By acknowledging the historical and cultural context, investing in education and training, and fostering meaningful partnerships, we can work towards creating inclusive and equitable spaces where Aboriginal voices are heard and respected.

Topic 2: The strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and barriers of ACCOs in our region:

Aboriginal Community Controlled Organizations (ACCOs) such as Keedac play a critical role in advancing the rights and interests of Aboriginal peoples in our region. These organizations are often deeply embedded within their communities and are uniquely positioned to address the diverse needs and aspirations of Aboriginal peoples.

One of the strengths of ACCOs is their ability to provide culturally appropriate services that are responsive to the needs of Aboriginal communities. By prioritizing cultural safety and community-led approaches, ACCOs can build trust and foster positive outcomes for Aboriginal peoples.

ACCOs also serve as important hubs for community empowerment and capacity building. Through programs and initiatives that promote education, employment, and cultural revitalization, ACCOs contribute to the resilience and well-being of Aboriginal communities.

Moreover, ACCOs offer opportunities for Aboriginal leadership and self-determination. By empowering community members to take control of their own affairs, ACCOs enable Aboriginal peoples to shape their own futures and assert their rights.

However, in the Wheatbelt, Keedac ACCO faces various barriers that hinders our ability to fulfill our potential. These barriers include limited funding and resources, bureaucratic processes, and systemic inequalities. Additionally, historical and ongoing discrimination can pose significant challenges for ACCOs in accessing support and building partnerships.

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for ACCOs to strengthen their impact and influence. This includes advocating for increased funding and support from government agencies, fostering partnerships with other organizations, and leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and outreach.

In summary, Keedac, the Wheatbelt Aboriginal Corporation, possesses strengths in cultural responsiveness, community empowerment, and Aboriginal leadership. However, we also face barriers such as limited resources and systemic inequalities. By advocating for support, building partnerships, and leveraging opportunities for innovation, ACCOs can continue to play a vital role in advancing the rights and well-being of Aboriginal peoples in our region.

Topic 3: Ways that the Departments can better engage ACCOs to increase the number of ACCOs they commission to support sustainable economic and socio-economic development opportunities for the ACCO Sector:

Engaging Aboriginal Community Controlled Organizations (ACCOs) is crucial for supporting sustainable economic and socio-economic development opportunities within the ACCO sector. Departments can take proactive steps to foster collaboration and empower ACCOs to thrive.

Firstly, Departments must recognize the expertise and leadership of ACCOs in addressing the needs of Aboriginal peoples. This involves actively seeking input from ACCOs in decision-making processes and valuing their contributions to community development. This applies especially from ACCOs such as Keedac, with its high standards of governance, staff qualifications and community understanding.

Moreover, the Departments can increase the number of ACCOs they commission by prioritizing procurement practices that support Aboriginal-owned businesses and organizations. This includes setting targets for Aboriginal participation in government contracts and providing capacity-building support to ACCOs to enhance their competitiveness.

Furthermore, fostering partnerships between ACCOs and local businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies can create opportunities for economic growth and innovation. By leveraging the strengths and resources of diverse stakeholders, communities can support the sustainability and resilience of the ACCO sector.

Investing in training and professional development programs for ACCO staff and leadership is also essential for building organizational capacity and promoting long-term success. By providing opportunities for skill development and mentorship, communities can empower ACCOs to take on larger roles in economic development initiatives.

Additionally, the Departments must address systemic barriers that hinder the participation of ACCOs in economic opportunities. This includes addressing issues such as racism, discrimination, and unequal access to resources and opportunities.

In summary, Departments can better engage ACCOs to support sustainable economic and socio-economic development opportunities by recognizing their expertise, prioritizing procurement practices that support Aboriginal businesses, fostering partnerships, investing in capacity-building initiatives, and addressing systemic barriers to participation. By working collaboratively with ACCOs, such as Keedac, they can create inclusive and equitable environments where Aboriginal peoples can thrive economically and socially.