Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan launched

Reconciliation is at the heart of The Gordon’s mission and identity - a shared responsibility that guides how we teach, work and connect 

--Chief Executive Officer, Joe Ormeno

Since launching its Reflect RAP in 2020, The Gordon has made strong progress embedding reconciliation principles across the organisation. This includes the establishment of the First Peoples Education Directorate, which supports self-determination and ensures First Nations perspectives are embedded across leadership, teaching and operations.

Initiatives such as the Mumgu-dhal tyama-tiyt program continue to support First Nations learners to re-engage with education, while the redevelopment of Kitjarra wurrun-ngeen has created a culturally safe and welcoming space for connection and support. 

Growing First Nations enrolments reflect the strength of genuine, respectful partnerships with Community.

The Innovate RAP builds on this foundation, introducing new priorities and actions to listen, learn, act and lead. Key initiatives include co-designing programs with Community, embedding cultural safety across the student experience, and expanding education and employment pathways, including the introduction of a First Nations Culinary course.

The RAP is visually brought to life through a powerful cover artwork by Wagiman artist Nathan Patterson, whose design reflects themes of seeds and growth, symbolising resilience, persistence and the journeys of learners.

The artwork features a large gumtree, which represents strength, continuity and connection to place, reflecting the importance of grounding education in culture, history and Country.

Nathan’s connection to the project is deeply personal, having worked alongside The Gordon’s students through the Mumgu-dhal program and mentoring previous collaborative artworks, including the 2025 Reconciliation Week project.

As Wadawurrung woman and Board Director Corrina Eccles reminds us:  

Let us walk together, walk the journey to reconcile. Koling wada-nyal, yan yaneekan werryt ngal ngal-la.

As a leading TAFE, The Gordon remains committed to working in partnership with Community to embed reconciliation in meaningful ways, creating an environment where all people can learn, work and thrive.