CESPHN launches Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan

Central and Eastern Sydney PHN (CESPHN) today launched its fourth Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and health equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The launch, held at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE), brought together community representatives, health sector partners, CESPHN staff and board members to celebrate the organisation’s first Stretch RAP, reflecting a deepened commitment to embedding reconciliation across all areas of its work.

The event commenced with an Acknowledgement of Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Shane Phillips and Jack Cook, followed by a traditional dance performance. Guests then heard from a range of speakers reflecting on the importance of reconciliation, cultural respect and the role of the health sector in improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Speakers included the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Member for Kingsford Smith and Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade; CESPHN Board Chair Rene Pennock; CESPHN First Nations Council Chair Shaylee Matthews; RAP Working Group Co-Chair Brett Hugo; and CESPHN Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Hansen.

Building on the foundations established through CESPHN’s previous RAPs, the new Stretch RAP outlines a series of ambitious actions and commitments designed to strengthen relationships, foster respect and create meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It provides a framework for embedding reconciliation throughout the organisation and for working in partnership with First Nations communities to improve health and wellbeing outcomes.

CESPHN Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Hansen said the Stretch RAP represents the next stage in the organisation’s reconciliation journey.

“This Stretch RAP reflects our ongoing commitment to reconciliation and our determination to turn that commitment into meaningful action. It challenges us to deepen our relationships, strengthen cultural understanding and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to support better health outcomes.”

Shaylee Matthews, Chair of the CESPHN First Nations Council, said the RAP demonstrates CESPHN’s commitment to walking alongside First Nations peoples in a spirit of partnership and respect.

“Meaningful improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes require trust, relationships and genuine partnership with community. This RAP is about ensuring Aboriginal voices help shape the decisions that affect our people and creating a future where communities feel respected, empowered, heard and healthy”.

The RAP was developed through consultation and collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, CESPHN staff and community representatives. It reflects the organisation’s aspiration to contribute to a healthcare system that is culturally safe, responsive and equitable.

As CESPHN begins implementing the actions outlined in the Stretch RAP, it remains committed to listening, learning and working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to create lasting positive change and help close the gap in health outcomes.