For the next few months, the Council will seek commitments from governments, businesses, organisations, communities and individuals to take some or all of the steps outlined in the Roadmap. Those of you who are interested in making positive steps in your own organisations can also use the Council s Roadmap as a guide. As I mentioned before, RAPI has already told us about the practical steps that it will take to do things differently. I would encourage similar peak bodies to follow their lead. If you only come up with one change that might help to address Indigenous disadvantage, encourage economic independence or respect Indigenous rights in your organisation, it is still reconciliation.
Reconciliation is the triumph of tolerance over racism, of understanding and respect over mistrust.
It is also a triumph of knowledge over ignorance. That, I believe, is one of the most significant achievements of the Council and Australian society in this past decade. Knowledge, understanding and trust are basic building blocks for the success of reconciliation and the creation of a truly just Australian society. I believe we ll get there, and Australia will be a richer country for our success.