Outline of the Proposed Document for Reconciliation

Notes

The Document for Reconciliation

The Document for Reconciliation is a single document with a number of components. It will be published in two versions – the full version and a short popular version. The Document includes:

• The Declaration for Reconciliation

(Not finalised – draft not included here - copies of draft obtainable by ringing 1800 807 071)

• The Declaration will acknowledge the past and provide vision for the future. It seeks to bring the nation together in a very public national commitment to reconciliation;
• The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation is developing the final Declaration, drawing on community comments to the draft that was released in June 1999.

• The Background to the National Strategies. This will include:

• an overview of Australia’s history and its consequences for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples including the causes of disadvantage;
• why the Council is proposing a Document for Reconciliation and the benefits of a Document;
• how the strategies work together for reconciliation;
• principles for success (in implementation).

• National Strategies to Advance Reconciliation

The four national strategies are the practical part of the document. As they are implemented, reconciliation will become a reality. The Council asks individuals, organisations and governments to make commitments to undertake the actions in the National Strategies. When people meet their commitments:

• the Strategy to Promote the Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Rights will gain recognition, respect and understanding for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to enjoy their rights as the first peoples of Australia;
• the Strategy for Economic Independence will improve the wealth and income of Indigenous people through education and training, employment, better access to capital, better access to markets, targeted approaches in regional and remote Australia, and better partnerships and joint ventures;
• the Strategy to Sustain the Reconciliation Process will keep the reconciliation process going through leadership, education, broad community support, ceremony, symbols and protection of the Document;
• the Strategy to Address Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Disadvantage will address Indigenous disadvantage in the areas of education, health, employment, housing, and law and justice.

Each of the national strategies is being developed with input from the consultation process that commenced in June 1999. They are also drawing on targeted consultations with key stakeholders.

Document for Reconciliation

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