Grant Thornton launches first national Reconciliation Action Plan

Joining the likes of PwC and KPMG, professional services group Grant Thornton has officially embarked on its Indigenous reconciliation journey with the launch of its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The accounting and consulting firm joins a network of more than 2,200 public and private entities which have signed on to the program since its establishment in 2006.

In its initial twelve-month ‘Reflect’ phase, Grant Thornton aims to bring a greater understanding of Indigenous histories and cultures to the organisation while shaping its future reconciliation initiatives.

An event to launch the RAP launch saw Grant Thornton’s national CEO Greg Keith joined by members of the firm’s board, executive, and its RAP working group, with Tommy Bundambah of Tribal Experiences and the Tribal Experiences Dancers among the special guests in attendance.

Bundambah provided a Welcome to Country – a formal ceremony performed as a land acknowledgement to show respect for Traditional Owners – to open the event, while sharing his extensive cultural knowledge, language and stories.

“Delivering the actions and outcomes of this RAP is important to me personally and for us all at Grant Thornton,” commented Keith. “I take responsibility to lead on this RAP and fully encourage all our people to embrace our commitments in building stronger cultural understanding, respectful relationships, and meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, walking together in the spirit of reconciliation.”

The ‘Reflect’ phase of Reconciliation Australia’s RAP program is one of four stages designed to help organisations continuously develop and strengthen their commitments along the reconciliation journey, with the aim of promoting increased economic equality and self-determination for First Nations peoples. The follow-up stages include Innovate, Stretch and Elevate, with PwC for example nearing the end of the latter phase.

While this is Grant Thornton’s first official RAP, the firm points out its “long-standing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through business and charity partnerships”, including having worked with more than 400 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients nationally to deliver a wide range of services.

In 2017, the firm established its Indigenous Advisory line, offering a range of specialised services.

Commenting on the launch, Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine said, “This RAP enables Grant Thornton to deepen its understanding of its sphere of influence and the unique contribution it can make to lead progress across (multiple) dimensions. Getting the first steps right in the Reflect phase will ensure the sustainability of future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives, and provide meaningful impact toward Australia’s reconciliation.”