Hawkesbury City Council Unveils First Reconciliation Action Plan to Strengthen First Natns Ties
HAWKESBURY, NSW — Hawkesbury City Council has officially launched its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for the 2026–2028 term, marking a significant commitment to enhancing its relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within the Local Government Area (LGA).
The draft plan, which received official endorsement on October 14, is now available for public exhibition and community feedback until November 19, 2025.
Developed in close consultation with local First Nations communities, the RAP is structured around four key pillars—Relationships, Respect, Opportunities, and Governance. These principles are intended to guide the Council’s actions and policies as it works toward formal Reconciliation.
The Hawkesbury region holds deep historical and cultural significance as the traditional country of the Dharug and Darkinjung peoples, who have served as custodians of the land for over 65,000 years. Current census data indicates that approximately 3,252 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individuals reside in the Hawkesbury, making up 4.8% of the total population—a figure notably higher than the state average for New South Wales.
The Council describes the RAP as a crucial step in formally recognising the profound history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and fostering a more inclusive and cooperative future for the region.
Community members are strongly encouraged to review the draft Reconciliation Action Plan and contribute their feedback. The document can be accessed and submissions can be made online via the Council’s dedicated platform at www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au/reconciliation-action-plan.
The draft plan is also available for in-person viewing at the Council’s Administration Building, located at 366 George Street, Windsor, on weekdays between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. Written submissions can be addressed to the General Manager and submitted by mail to Hawkesbury City Council PO Box 146 Windsor NSW 2756 or by email to council@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au.
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Image credit: Waterholes by Leanne Watson Mulgo Redpath – 2018 – Acrylic on Canvas
