News Corp Australia has launched its new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – its fourth since 2011 – to help further its commitment to tell the stories that can make a positive difference to the lives and communities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The launch, which occurred at all News Corp Australia’s work sites, features The Advertiser’s Indigenous reporter Douglas Smith talking with Kids News editor Di Jenkins about his life story and role at The Advertiser.
It includes a focus on the two-year investigation Douglas led to produce the hit, seven-episode True Crime Australia podcast Dying Rose.
Dying Rose investigates the deaths of six Indigenous women and girls across two states and one territory.
News Corp Australasia’s executive chairman Michael Miller said: “Dying Rose exposes again that as a nation we still have a long row to hoe when it comes to reconciliation and equality.
“Our Reconciliation Action Plan is a small step in the right direction.”
News Corp Australia Community Ambassador Penny Fowler said the RAP outlined how the company would help break down barriers between the broader community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Fowler commented: “We aim to deepen engagement, promote understanding and build long-term and sustainable relationships.
“It is not a short-term vision, It is not a token gesture, it is a sincere and genuine commitment.
“Our suite of media brands report extensively, and often exclusively, on the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous Australians. Our mastheads celebrate the unique diversity that comprises Indigenous cultures and communities like no other.”
Fowler also pointed to the company’s work with various organisations including The Clontarf Foundation, the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, Career Trackers and the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation.
Miller agreed, adding: “Our long-term vision here at News is to break down barriers, and through respect, understanding and telling stories that matter such as Douglas’s podcast, we can contribute to recognition and reconciliation.
“While there have been gains such as land rights and native title legislation, targeted healthcare, and cultural preservation, there are still obvious disparities and social inequity that need to be addressed and solutions found.
“In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders will have the same life chances and choices as non-Indigenous Australians.
“This is what we need to work towards.”
Reconciliation Australia’s chief executive officer Karen Mundine commended the company on its new RAP, stating: “By enabling and empowering staff to contribute to this process, News Corp Australia will ensure shared and cooperative success in the long term.”
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