Kinetic IT acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, and tens of thousands of years of knowledge and technology that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples have developed and passed down through each generation. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present.
“Before we can close the gap, we need first to close the information technology gap for Indigenous Australians. Only then will we see change.”
Indigenous ICT engagement specialist Dion Devow
This National Reconciliation Week, we’ve reflected on these powerful words by Indigenous ICT engagement specialist Dion Devow.
We know that ICT is still lagging behind on Indigenous engagement, with a ‘near absence of First Nations people in Australia’s cyber and STEM-related industries’, and as one of Australia’s largest technology solutions companies, we have a responsibility to make a difference in our sector.
And it’s truly a win-win – an inclusive ICT sector benefits everyone, by sparking innovation and reflecting a diversity of standpoints and lived experiences.
This year’s National Reconcilation Week theme, ‘Now More Than Ever’, is a poignant reminder that a fairer, better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is something that we all have the power to contribute to in our words and actions.
How we’re supporting Reconciliation
Our Reconciliation Working Group takes action to drive our progress and accountability towards our Reconciliation Action Plan.
This team of twelve spans a diverse range of Indigenous team members, allies and advocates. We’ve asked them to share what ‘Now More than Ever’ means to them.
“We need to build trust with our First Nations mob, and the first step to that is building relationships with them, and not judging them from their past, or who they are. Reconciliation is needed for everyone to move forward, together as one.”
Alice Waters, Wiradjuri woman living on Whadjuk-Nyoongar Country | Service Desk Technician
“We can’t change the past, but we can choose how we get involved in reconciliation today and how we influence reconciliation into the future.”
Karina Bourne, Service Director | Larrakia Country / Darwin, Northern Territory.
READ MORE: Gamilaroi/Wiradjuri artist Sean Kinchela’s vision for Kinetic IT Reconciliation Action Plan artwork
“Reconciliation can’t wait another generation, and with more and more Australians understanding the importance of listening to Indigenous voices, the time is now to make real change (guided by community) so we can walk together for a better future.”
Lara Rosenblum, Content Lead | Whadjuk-Noongar Country / Perth, Western Australia
“We can no longer wait or rely for others to do the work for us, Reconciliation is everyone’s business – it is up to all of us now to build momentum and move the country to a more connected and healthier community where everyone benefits.”
Courtney Bohan, Senior Manager – Talent Acquisition | Whadjuk-Noongar Country / Perth, Western Australia
“We are so privileged to live in a nation that is home to the world’s oldest continuous cultures. Yet the dial isn’t moving forward for First Nations people who we share these lands with – in fact, it’s getting worse. As allies, it’s on us to step up now more than ever so that we can, as Noongar mob say, be danjoo koorliny – walking together.”
Jess Etheridge, Growth Campaign Manager | Whadjuk-Noongar Country / Perth, Western Australia
Kinetic IT acknowledges that First Nations people are the world’s first scientists and innovators, having used science for over 65,000 years.
Working every day in ICT, we’re excited about new and emerging tools that empower people and communities on their own terms.
That’s why we’re committed to bringing more First Nations people into the ICT sector, collaborating with First Nations people, communities, and organisations to create inclusive and culturally safe working environments for a better tomorrow.
Find out more about Kinetic IT’s Reconciliation Action Plan, and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
