Council continues on its reconciliation journey

• Builds on 16 years of reconciliation work and partnerships
• Focuses on relationships, respect, opportunities, and governance
• Features local Indigenous-designed art and community input

A new step in Council’s reconciliation journey

Cairns Regional Council has endorsed its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2025–2027, advancing its long-standing commitment to reconciliation with First Peoples.

This two-year plan outlines actions to strengthen relationships, show respect, and increase opportunities for collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

A long-term commitment

Cairns is home to one of the highest populations of First Peoples in Australia, with nearly 10% of the local population identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Council’s formal reconciliation efforts began in 2009 with the creation of the First Peoples Advisory Committee.

In 2011, Cairns became the first local government in Queensland to have a Reconciliation Action Plan endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. The most recent Innovate RAP concluded in 2021, with all goals either achieved or underway.

Four pillars of action

The 2025–2027 RAP builds on this foundation, focusing on four key pillars: relationships, respect, opportunities, and governance. It outlines clear timelines and initiatives related to Council’s services and operations, aiming to embed inclusive policies and promote the contributions of First Peoples across all areas of Council activity.

The plan was developed with input from a broad group including First Peoples Advisory Consultants, a RAP Working Group, Council executives, First Peoples employees, and members of the former First Peoples Advisory Committee.

Indigenous art a feature

A notable feature of the RAP is its use of artwork created in collaboration with IndigeDesignLabs, a Cairns-based creative learning lab. The organisation supports young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives by introducing them to digital design and the creative industries.