In June, BaptistCare in SA launched the Nunga Action Plan at the WestCare Chapel, marking a clear commitment to Aboriginal voice, leadership and accountability across the organisation.

Co-designed with Aboriginal staff, Elders and Communities, the Nunga Action Plan’s cultural and design integrity is held by Deb Buckskin, Kaurna Narungga leader and BaptistCare’s Senior Advisor, Aboriginal Services.

The day opened with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country given by Isaac Hannam.

Kate McGarry, General Manager, Community Services SA/WA, opened the formal program with the question at the heart of the Plan:

“What happens when an organisation becomes willing to be changed by what it hears?”

The Nunga Action Plan was developed with Aboriginal staff, Community leaders and colleagues who contributed to the thinking, review and decisions behind the work.

Eastern Arrernte artist Pat Caruso shared the cultural story and responsibility carried through the artwork created for the Plan. Music duo Red Soul, featuring Ellie Lovegrove and Tony Minniecon, performed throughout the launch.

 

Padni. Wangka. Le:Wun. Kungun.

Walk. Talk. Sit. Listen.

Padni, Wangka, Le:Wun and Kungun make clear what BaptistCare in SA must do, understand its responsibility, speak truthfully, consider what is heard and carry that responsibility through decisions, systems and accountability.

The Nunga Action Plan sets the commitments BaptistCare in SA is responsible for carrying across relationships, practice, opportunity, policy, strategy, governance and reporting. Progress will be measured, reviewed and reported over time.

Reflecting on the launch, Kate said:

“The launch was an important moment, but what matters now is how responsibility is carried across BaptistCare in SA. The Nunga Action Plan makes clear that practical work must follow our words.”

The launch brought together BaptistCare staff, Aboriginal Community members, partners, stakeholders and leaders who contributed to the development, review and beginning of the work.