As a national ombudsman scheme that provides services across the country, AFCA wants to be an organisation that delivers its service to First Nations peoples in a culturally informed, respectful and accessible way.
We must purposefully consider and work to transform how AFCA can deliver services for the benefit of our First Nations customers.
In order to do this, we have developed a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Read the AFCA Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan
“We are at the beginning of our reconciliation journey and our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan is the first step."
David Locke, Chief Ombudsman and CEO
AFCA’s Reflect RAP outlines the actions we will take over the next 12 months to work towards our vision for reconciliation.
It demonstrates the commitment all our people have towards creating an environment that supports greater economic and financial participation and inclusion.
The actions we have committed to in our RAP will focus on strengthening the relationships, respect and opportunities for First Nations peoples, by building trust and understanding. We also want to ensure a deeper understanding throughout our organisation of First Nations peoples and cultures.
“The Reflect RAP serves as a guide to building meaningful, genuine and mutually beneficial relationships with First Nations peoples, communities and businesses across all areas of our organisation, so we can deliver culturally sensitive and accessible services. In this way we will contribute to reconciliation through financial and economic inclusion.”
Dr June Smith Deputy Chief Ombudsman and Chair of AFCA’s RAP working group
About the artwork
In recognition of our Reflect RAP, AFCA commissioned artwork by Edwin Lee Mulligan for our Melbourne and Sydney offices. The artwork is symbolic for our people and is a constant reminder of our reconciliation journey.
Edwin Lee Mulligan named the artwork ‘Ngalimba’, meaning loving energy: finding strength to help others. At AFCA, we walk alongside people from different backgrounds, to ensure fair outcomes to financial disputes.
Edwin Lee Mulligan says: “This painting is about the first time I saw my Grandfather’s Country. Walking this Country, I realised each step represented each passing day. This work is about finding your inner strength to walk with others."
About the artist
Edwin is a Walmajarri and Nyikina artist, also known by his traditional name Warrda Lumbadij Bundajarrdi. He is an acclaimed painter, hailing from a family of unparalleled and globally recognised artists. He has featured in numerous films, plays and is renown throughout the Kimberley. Edwin grew up with a connection to both his Mothers’ and Fathers’ ancestral homes, stretching from the Martuwarra to the Great Sandy Desert.
Edwin is deeply connected to his language and culture, which is strikingly evident is his painting and poetry. He moves easily between Walmajarri and English, relaying profound philosophy and spirituality in riveting parables and anecdotes.
