nib releases its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan and supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart

nib Group (nib) today launched its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and announced its support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

nib Group Executive, Legal & Chief Risk Officer, and RAP champion, Roslyn Toms, said nib's Innovate RAP builds on the foundations of its first Reflect RAP, completed June 2022, and signifies nib’s ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of First Nations peoples.

“Over the past two years, we’ve taken the time to reflect on and improve our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture with our employees; build relationships with First Nations peoples and identify what our contribution to reconciliation should be,” Ms Toms said.

“Supporting the better health and wellbeing of First Nations communities and employees is where we believe we can have the greatest impact. The launch of our Innovate RAP steps out how we plan to contribute to this through supporting self-determination, collaboration and improved access to culturally-safe health services,” she said.

In addition to the release of its second RAP, nib has announced its support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Ms Toms said the sentiment of the Uluru Statement from the Heart aligns with nib's vision for reconciliation.

“Our vision for reconciliation is for all First Nations peoples to enjoy better health and wellbeing. We believe the Uluru Statement from the Heart, including the call for a referendum that enacts Constitutional change to give First Nations peoples a voice, will deliver positive outcomes for First Nations peoples and Australia,” Ms Toms said.

nib continues to work with community-led organisations to deliver culturally-safe initiatives in support of First Nations’ health and wellbeing. In 2021, nib foundation committed $1 million in funding to create an Aboriginal Health Partnership program.

“Our funding is focused on organisations that improve social and emotional wellbeing by providing avenues for young people to engage with their community and build a greater sense of connection to Country and culture,” Ms Toms said.

Ms Toms said one program nib supports - a Baby Welcoming Ceremony in the Hunter, hosted by Awabakal, provides an opportunity for First Nations families and their new babies to meet their Elders and welcome the next generation into the community.

“nib also supports Awabakal’s Youth Leadership Camps, where First Nations youth participate in education workshops about health, wellbeing and leadership. These programs aim to help young people develop leadership skills and identify pathways for employment,” Ms Toms said.

In addition to improved health, Ms Toms said, nib’s Innovate RAP outlines its commitments to reconciliation over the next two years as nib works with First Nations people to ensure a culturally safe workplace and create opportunities through employment, increased supplier diversity, and strong community partnerships.

“We know better health and wellbeing is directly linked to strong social and economic participation. It's important we work to support and empower First Nations self-determination when designing and delivering solutions for our current and future employees, members and suppliers,” Ms Toms said.

“Ultimately, our aim is to help empower all First Nations peoples to live healthier lives," she added.

Read nib’s support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and Innovate RAP.