Starting a RAP: Practical advice from the ACA
Since joining the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program in 2023, the ACA has committed to helping practices of all sizes participate in the reconciliation journey, knowing that together we can amplify our impact across the architectural profession. ACA RAP Coordinator, Emma Brain, provides an overview of changes to the RAP program and offers advice to practices considering joining.
First, what is a RAP and how can the ACA help you to deliver yours?
The RAP program is an initiative of Reconciliation Australia that assists businesses in embedding the principles of reconciliation in their practices and processes. There are four RAP types – Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate – enabling businesses to participate in the program at a pace that matches their capacity and scale. There is no expectation to move through the stages quickly. Many businesses remain at the Reflect or Innovate stages for more than one cycle while they build confidence, capability and genuine, long-term commitment.
A major focus for the ACA has been advocating for smaller-scale practices that may not have the resources to develop their own RAP initiatives. We meet regularly with Reconciliation Australia to discuss this issue and reiterate our interest in serving as a conduit between the profession and Reconciliation Australia.
In our most recent meeting with Gieta Seymour (Program Manager, RAP Development) and Madeleine Holderness (Senior RAP Officer for architecture practices), we were pleased to hear that Reconciliation Australia is committed to working more closely with practices to help them develop an action plan aligned with the scale and potential of their business.
The RAP template can appear daunting at first glance, but Reconciliation Australia has assured us that they’re offering much greater flexibility in how it can be delivered:
The key is to focus on the actions and deliverables within the RAP template and consider how your business can work towards delivering that impact, whether it be strengthening relationships, demonstrating respect for culture, or creating opportunities to work with First Nations peoples and businesses.
Reconciliation Australia encourages organisations that are getting started in the RAP program to work closely with the templated actions and deliverables, while also supporting you to flex and expand your impact as your engagement with the program matures.
There are many ways to work towards the Five Dimensions of Reconciliation. The RAP framework and advice you receive from Reconciliation Australia during the development of your RAP will assist you in identifying what works for you.
ADVICE FOR PRACTICES
Having now delivered two RAPs for the ACA, here’s my advice for anyone considering joining the program:
Don’t overthink it!
You don’t need to have all the answers when applying for a RAP. The Reflect RAP is about exploration and discovery, not perfection!
Your first Reflect RAP offers a framework for exploration and important housekeeping. It asks you to review your business practices and HR policies through the lens of reconciliation and ongoing learning. It does not demand that you employ an expensive consultant or make overstated commitments about how First Nations stories can be embedded in your projects.
Consider it a business improvement process
Many Reflect RAP actions – reviewing policies, strengthening culture, creating learning opportunities – are simply good business practices. Think of your reconciliation efforts in terms of good business. It will make the process feel more manageable and sustainable.
Start where you are
Focus on what is achievable for your practice and build from there. A genuine commitment is far more valuable than an ambitious plan that is difficult to deliver.
Record your activities
Describe your business and your aspirations for contributing to the reconciliation movement in Australia. Outline what you’ve already done to set the tone for your business and demonstrate your genuine intentions. Include talks you’ve attended, articles you’ve read, campaigns you’ve joined, and courses you’ve completed.
Move at your own pace
After the Reflect RAP is the Innovate RAP, which demands more. However, you can stay at the Reflect level for another year, as we did at the ACA, if you need more time. Be honest about where your practice is on its reconciliation journey, acknowledge what you don’t know yet, and be open about your commitment to learning and improving.
Regardless of RAP type, it is important to refresh your RAP every one to two years to ensure your reconciliation commitments are being prioritised within your business activities.
Involve everyone
Even in a small practice, the responsibility of the RAP should be shared. Invite everyone to contribute ideas, participate in learning opportunities and take ownership of the commitments in your RAP. Collective responsibility helps embed reconciliation into everyday practice and makes it more meaningful.
Reconciliation at the ACA
At the ACA, we offer affordable webinars and information to help you meet your learning requirements. We are also a core member of the RAP RING, a network of design practitioners who are on this journey too. Our First Nations Knowledge Hub offers a curated selection of articles, resources and events to support meaningful First Nations practice, and is a great place to spend some time.
The RAP program demands curiosity, a willingness to learn and time (but not too much!).