The nib Newcastle Knights and Wests Group Australia have reaffirmed their commitment to reconciliation, launching a new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) that will guide the organisations' ongoing efforts to create meaningful and lasting change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Building on the foundations established through the inaugural RAP launched in 2023, the new plan reflects a shared commitment to cultural accountability, truth-telling, partnership and systemic change across both organisations.
Developed through consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, staff, Elders, advisory partners and community members, the RAP recognises reconciliation as more than a set of actions or deliverables. Instead, it is an ongoing journey grounded in relationships, cultural learning and a commitment to creating environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures are visible, valued and empowered.
The RAP outlines a range of initiatives aimed at embedding reconciliation throughout every level of both organisations, from the football field and community programs to workplaces, venues and leadership structures.
Guided by a dedicated Reconciliation Working Group and supported by executive RAP Sponsors, the plan places a strong focus on strengthening cultural understanding, increasing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership and employment, and ensuring reconciliation remains a visible and accountable organisational priority.
Wests Group Australia Chief Executive Officer Phillip Gardner said the new Innovate RAP represented a significant step forward in the organisations' shared commitment to reconciliation.
"As one of the largest employers and community contributors in our region, we have a responsibility to lead with integrity and embed cultural awareness, equity and justice into the way we operate, serve and connect," Gardner said.
"This Innovate RAP marks a deepening of that commitment and reflects our shared future — one grounded in cultural learning, partnership and accountability to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Awabakal, Worimi, Wonnarua and beyond."
Gardner said reconciliation requires ongoing action and a collective commitment from every part of the organisation.
"It is through sustained action that we will continue to grow as organisations that not only respect First Nations cultures, but create spaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures can thrive," he said.
"I thank the members of our Reconciliation Working Group and Aboriginal Advisory Group for their guidance and leadership, and I acknowledge the ongoing support of our staff, members, partners and supporters who each play an important role in strengthening our reconciliation journey."
The new RAP continues the organisations' commitment to listening, learning and acting with purpose, while recognising that reconciliation is both an organisational responsibility and a personal one.
Together, the nib Newcastle Knights and Wests Group Australia remain committed to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with care, courage and integrity, helping build a stronger, more inclusive future for the communities they serve.
To learn more about the RAP, read here.
