This RAP is our commitment as a peak body to take deliberate, meaningful action to reflect on our own practices with honesty, and take our first steps towards Reconciliation.
Catholic Health Australia acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and emerging Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of Cultural, Spiritual and Educational knowledge practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
As the largest non-government network of health, community, and aged care services in Australia, CHA's Reflect RAP formalises our commitment to creating an environment that fosters trust, understanding, and collaboration.
“Reconciliation is a responsibility for all Australians.” Jenny Parker · Chair, Catholic Health Australia
A painting by Aaron Eastment
Aaron Eastment is an Indigenous artist of Wiradjuri Country, Mabuiag & Erub Island (Torres Strait Islands) heritage. Aaron loves to play with balance and depth, and this is often reflected by the use of symmetrical patterns and flashes of metallic colour. His proud heritage has given him a deep appreciation for the land of his family and Ancestors, which provide inspiration for his work. Natural landscapes, as well as seascapes and the night sky play an integral role in his creative process.
About the Artwork
This work is symbolic of the effect Catholic Health Australia and its many departments. How a dynamic health ecosystem has been created to help serve the community. The patients are seen at the centre around the circle in white, their community is symbolised behind them in yellow, orange and red. The Catholic Health Australia community is represented in different hues of blue and white figures inside them, who, when united, can help the process of healing flow into wider society, with the intention of creating a better world.
For over 185 years, Catholic health and aged care services have been woven into the fabric of Australian communities, offering compassionate care to those in need. During this time, we have witnessed the enduring injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the profound health disparities that persist as a consequence.
This RAP is our commitment as a peak body to take deliberate, meaningful action to reflect on our own practices with honesty, and take our first steps towards Reconciliation. Our RAP is the product of careful reflection and consultation, guided by the wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and our member organisations.
Through this plan, we commit to embedding reconciliation in the heart of our mission and fostering a health and aged care system that is truly inclusive, compassionate, and equitable. As we move forward, let us remember that every step toward Reconciliation brings us closer to the vision of justice and healing at the core of our mission.
"Reconciliation Australia welcomes Catholic Health Australia to the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program with the formal endorsement of its inaugural Reflect RAP. This Reflect RAP enables Catholic Health Australia to deepen its understanding of its sphere of influence and the unique contribution it can make to lead progress across the five dimensions."
Karen Mundine · Chief Executive Officer, Reconciliation Australia
The RAP program's strength is its framework of relationships, respect, and opportunities, underpinned by governance. Here is the full set of commitments we will deliver between May 2026 and November 2027.
This RAP has been developed by a Reconciliation Working Group with members drawn from across CHA, our member organisations and partner bodies.
