Building connections: Silverchain launches new Reconciliation Action Plan 

In-home care specialist, Silverchain, released its fourth Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) on Friday morning with the detailed document further highlighting its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan and the ongoing work of Silverchain question how the service provider can embed reconciliation in all activities to create a just, equitable and reconciled nation.

It proudly states that high expectations are set around fostering a world-class inclusive culture and is willing to acknowledge past wrongs, take responsibility for its actions and work towards healing. 

Silverchain Chief Executive Dale Fisher AM said Silverchain’s work in communities across Australia sees the organisation embrace and respect diversity and differences, understanding that this is the foundation on which reconciliation is built. 

“Silverchain’s genuine commitment to reconciliation is our investment in a shared future where everyone can thrive. Initiatives in our new RAP range from cultural competency training to improved economic and social outcomes by supporting First Nations businesses,” Ms Fisher said. 

“Our commitment extends beyond just acknowledging historical injustices. Our journey has focused on healing and improving access to care and support services. 

“As a leader in our industry, we have a unique responsibility to contribute meaningfully to reconciliation. Our actions and our care benefit the people and the communities we serve across Australia. They also impact the health and aged care industry, our networks, our peers and decision-makers, and the broader community.”  

Since 2006, RAPs have enabled organisations to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation. There are four RAP types – Reflect, Innovate, Stretch and Elevate – with the Innovate RAP outlining actions for achieving reconciliation. 

An Innovate RAP is implemented over two years, with this being Silverchain’s second. Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine commended Silverchain for its progress. 

“Learnings gained through effort and innovation are invaluable resources that Silverchain will continuously draw upon to create RAP commitments rooted in experience and maturity,” Ms Mundine said.

“These learnings extend to Silverchain using the lens of reconciliation to better understand its core business, sphere of influence, and diverse community of staff and stakeholders.

“This Innovate RAP is an opportunity for Silverchain to strengthen these relationships, gain crucial experience, and nurture connections that will become the lifeblood of its future RAP commitments. By enabling and empowering staff to contribute to this process, Silverchain will ensure shared and cooperative success in the long term.”

Silverchain’s RAP journey

Silverchain’s RAP journey dates back to 2017 when it initiated the process of developing its first RAP. The first Reflect RAP was launched in 2019, followed by a second in 2020. It launched the first Innovate RAP in 2022. 

Achievements from its most recent RAP include:

• Expanding the RAP Working Group to increase representation from all areas of the business
• Greater Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employee representation and participation in the RAP Working Group and The Seed Pod, Silverchain’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employee network
• The completion of educational videos to create greater awareness and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and celebrations
• Impactful investments in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses with more than $1.7 million in goods and services purchased from them
• Implementation of strong RAP governance and accountability

One of four case studies shared by Silverchain showcased how The Seed Pod has enabled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices to be heard and valued. One of its newest members, Jacqui, praised the group after a consultation session related to the RAP’s development.

“I felt very welcomed and connected to Silverchain and to my Indigenous community [colleagues]. I have never experienced anything like this in my previous workplace and as a newcomer to the company it was an absolute honour to be a part of it,” she said. 

Elsewhere, Whadjuk Ballardong Elder Uncle Kevin Fitzgerald praised the organisation for its friendly, kind and respectful care after he was referred to it following a short stay in hospital.

“If you think that you will be frightened, don’t be. If you come out of the hospital wherever you are and you need treatment, ask for Silverchain because they do a very, very good job,” Uncle Kevin said.

Uncle Kevin was also invited to provide a Welcome to Country at Silverchain’s Innovate RAP launch in 2022 and has remained a passionate supporter since then.

From here, Silverchain has devised 17 actions with relevant deliverable outcomes, timelines and responsible personnel. Each action falls under an overarching category: relationships, respect, opportunities and governance. 

With timelines stretching from now until 2026, there are short-term and long-term goals for staff at all levels including executives, directors and managers. 

Examples include promoting positive race relations through anti-discrimination strategies; improving employment outcomes by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention, and professional development; and building accountability and transparency through reporting RAP achievements, challenges and learnings internally and externally.

“We are committed to delivering on the actions in this RAP and will continue to be guided by our First Nations communities. Together, we can drive meaningful change within Silverchain and for the communities we are privileged to serve,” Ms Fisher said. 

Click here for more information and insights from Silverchain’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.