The North Melbourne Football Club has a proud indigenous history that has been well documented over the past 148 years.
In May 2016, our club launched its first ever Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), a plan that has built further upon and strengthened our efforts to promote reconciliation in our community, as well as inside our own club.
The primary goal of reconciliation is to deepen the understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history and strengthen unity and respect amongst Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians with a focus on Relationships, Respect and Opportunities.
Our vision for reconciliation is to create greater awareness about our history and build the capacity of our people to create the most inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Our commitment to reconciliation allows us to honour the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who represent the North Melbourne Football Club and pay our respects to the traditional owners of our spiritual home ground in North Melbourne and home ground playing venues in the Docklands and Bellerive.
We understand the importance of belonging – the unique connection between people and a united community. We proudly acknowledge and celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage and recognise the important role we play in promoting reconciliation to a broader audience.
The report below summarises the North Melbourne Football Club’s contribution to reconciliation from 2016-2017 under the areas of Relationships, Respect and Opportunities.
This report highlights some of the innovative approaches our Club is delivering to:
• Celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and land to reinforce the importance of belonging;
• Educate our players, staff, members and partners about our proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and culture;
• Create a welcoming, inclusive and nurturing environment that is socially, culturally and spiritually accessible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; and
• Strengthen our partnerships with Indigenous networks to bring about positive lasting benefits locally.
