“Defence is already a leader in Indigenous employment and procurement, and the D-RAP 2019-2022 presents an opportunity to continue our contribution towards reconciliation,” Minister Chester said.

The focus for the D-RAP 2019-2022 is to enhance Defence’s cultural awareness and improve the retention and career development opportunities for Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander personnel.

“Having reached our previous targets, Defence has now committed to an Indigenous representation target of 3 per cent by 2022 for the Australian Public Service workforce, and 5 per cent by 2025 for the Australian Defence Force in the D-RAP 2019-2022,” Minister Chester said.

“Defence’s commitment to reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous peoples is broader than increasing Indigenous representation in Defence,” Defence’s website reads.

“Defence is focused on enhancing and developing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and increasing the cultural capability of Defence’s workforce to create a culturally safe and inclusive workplace for all. We are also deeply committed to the government’s Indigenous Procurement Policy.”

Defence launched its first D-RAP in 2007, which focused on cultural awareness, recruitment and retention, and land and environmental management. Since then, there have been two further editions, each with unique strategic goals. 

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You can read more about D-RAP 2019-2022 here.