Celebrating the Launch of our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan

On Monday, 10 November, Play Matters Australia proudly launched our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), a significant milestone in our commitment to reconciliation and building stronger connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Innovate RAP moves us beyond awareness into action. It sets out practical strategies to embed cultural respect and inclusion across our programs, partnerships, and workplace practices. Through this plan, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for collaboration, amplify First Nations voices, and ensure our services reflect and celebrate the rich diversity of the communities we serve.

This achievement was shaped by collaboration across our team, guided by our RAP Working Group and informed by community voices and genuine allied organisational partnerships.

To celebrate, our teams came together in ways that honoured culture and connection across many different Countries - Yugembah, Turrbul/Jagera, Kabi Kabi/Undambi, and Gubbi Gubbi/Ningy Ningy. Each gathering reflected the authenticity of our teams and was a genuine reflection of the spirit and the values at the heart of our RAP.

On the Sunshine Coast (Kabi Kabi/Undami), the team shared homemade damper in our Cultural Bushland area and planted the first tree, a symbolic gesture of growth and commitment. Families at our Hub Playgroups explored First Nations activities and storybooks, and our Intergenerational Playgroup enjoyed a special reading led by our partner from Kath Dickson Family Centre. 

Pictured below: Megan, Leanne, Renea, Jessie, Lucy and Michelle from the Sunshine Coast. 

In Greater Brisbane (Gubbi Gubbi/Ningy Ningy), the team connected through creativity at the Redcliffe Old Fire Station Volunteer Hub, making Aboriginal design Christmas ornaments sourced from Ochre Dough, an Aboriginal-owned business. They explored the Miigaay and Miina exhibition, reflecting on themes of kinship and care for Country, and visited the Redcliffe Museum to learn about the Gubbi Gubbi people before sharing lunch together. Pictured below: Laura, Renia, Nicole, Nat, Kirsty, Michelle, Jasmine, Alana and Nerissa gathered. 

The Gold Coast (Yugembah) team joined the Jellurgal Cultural Centre for a guided walk on Country, listening to stories of land and culture. They shared lunch and created rock paintings inspired by Indigenous art, reinforcing the importance of respect and genuine connection. Pictured: Jean, Kate, Lucy and Asheligh from the Gold Coast team. 

At our Enoggera office (Turrbul/Jagera), we welcomed Elders from Kurbingui Youth Development for a backyard BBQ and yarn. Uncle Alex led the group, inviting everyone to share their stories and reflect on the Country they call home. Kevin grabbed the Sing&Grow guitar off the wall and provided some tunes, while conversation, and cultural learning created a space for genuine connection and understanding. Pictured: Uncle Alex, Elders and other guests from Kurbingai Youth Development Organisation joined with members from Play Matters for a BBQ and Yarn. 

We also hosted an online play and sing session with Aunty Sharron mirii Bell (a proud Gamilaraay Wiradjuri woman), reaching over 100 children and educators across the country. Families loved learning Aboriginal language through songs and stories, an experience that brought joy and learning to diverse locations and communities.

These celebrations reminded us that reconciliation is not a one-off event but an ongoing journey of listening, learning, and walking together. The launch of our Innovate RAP is just the beginning, and we are committed to creating spaces where culture is respected and celebrated.

Learn more about our Innovate RAP HERE.