Reconciliation at SMCT
SMCT warmly welcomes you to our reconciliation space. We unite to forge respectful relationships and deepen our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and experiences.
We respectfully acknowledge the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our cemeteries and memorial parks are found. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their histories, beliefs, and connection to Country, with cultural traditions and customs that have existed for over 60,000 years, and we are privileged to share the lands we live on and work with.
Why reconciliation matters
Reconciliation is vital for healing and building stronger, fairer relationships. It recognises the profound connection Indigenous people have had with Australian land and the impacts of European arrival.
SMCT is a public entity reporting to the Minister for Health, purposed with providing cemetery, cremation and related support services to the Victorian community on the government’s behalf.
We curate nine sites in the south-east region of Melbourne in perpetuity, providing solace and sustainable green space to honour and celebrate life. We undertake this responsibility with an ethos of inclusion, understanding and respect for our environment and the diverse communities we serve.
Meaningful and productive relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities are important to our understanding and ability to provide appropriate services, policies and plans.
Our inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a formal commitment and strategic framework that sets out practical steps to establish solid relationships, setting us on a deliberate journey of understanding and inclusion. This allows us to work towards reconciliation and provide equitable outcomes for community and for our team members.
Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan 2024-2025
Our Reflect RAP is the first of four phases within the Reconciliation Australia RAP framework and outlines our commitment to reconciliation. A Reflect RAP helps prepare an organisation to engage in reconciliation meaningfully.
The RAP sets out 13 actions for us to implement over 12 months. The actions fall under four categories: Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance.
At SMCT, we are committed to actively:
Engaging with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and peak bodies across a range of projects including our RAP.
Creating meaningful collaborations and partnerships that promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and experiences.
Observing key dates such as National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.
Continuously improving our cultural awareness and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and needs.
Download our RAP
Download a copy of our Reconciliation Action Plan here.
About our RAP artwork
Kenita-Lee McCartney, Life's Journey, 2023, acrylic on canvas
Artwork commissioned for SMCT’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
The artwork illustrating our RAP is a celebration of life, the beauty of the natural world, and the strength found in community. The sweeping journey line winding across the canvas represents each family’s journey, with nine circles symbolising each of our sites.
Scattered throughout the painting in bronze are U-shaped symbols, reflecting our team members who support families through their journey and highlighting the strength found within the community.
Running through the piece is the Birrarung (river), a sacred place to the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples. Vibrant florals and native plants serve as reminders of our profound connection to the earth and how it sustains and nurtures us on our journey. Read more about our RAP artwork here.
About the artist
Kenita-Lee is a proud Wemba Wemba, Wotjobaluk, Boon Wurrung, Nari Nari, and Wiradjuri woman and mother of three, deeply connected to the saltwater shores, rivers, and mountains of her homeland. Through her artwork, she weaves the culture and traditions of her people, resonating with her ancestors, community, and Country.
Join the conversation
Be part of SMCT's reconciliation journey. Contact us to share your thoughts or get involved.