The move marks a significant milestone and commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said both the RAP and the MOU were the result of years of relationship building.
“The endorsement of both the Reconciliation Action Plan and the Memorandum of Understanding represents a meaningful and practical commitment to continuing to build respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Dr Emonson said.
“With particular focus on the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation as the Traditional Owners of the lands within Moira Shire.
“We look forward to working with the Yorta Yorta Nation to continue strengthening our partnership and improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community.”
Reconciliation Action Plan
The Moira Shire Council Reconciliation Action Plan 2026-2028 provides a structured framework for council to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while improving cultural capability, organisational practices and community outcomes.
The RAP has been conditionally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia and is structured around four areas of action: relationships, respect, opportunities and governance.
Moira Shire is located within the traditional Country of the Yorta Yorta Nation, whose eight clan groups have maintained deep cultural, spiritual and physical connections to the rivers, land and waterways of the region for thousands of years.
Council has already demonstrated a strong foundation for reconciliation through existing activities, including:
- Hosting National Reconciliation Week events in collaboration with GV Libraries
- Supporting NAIDOC week events in Yarrawonga
- Supporting Yorta Yorta’s Dharnya Day celebrations in Barmah
- Conducting on-Country Cultural Awareness Training at the Dharnya Centre in Barmah with 68 staff members.
Memorandum of Understanding
The Memorandum of Understanding between Moira Shire Council and the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation formalises the commitment of both parties to build a meaningful and enduring partnership that supports reconciliation and improves outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the Moira community.
Council has progressively been building its relationship with YYNAC as part of its commitment to reconciliation and meaningful engagement with the Traditional Owners of the land on which it operates.
The MOU reflects a shared commitment to the principles of self-determination, cultural respect and partnership.
It outlines the specific commitments and obligations of each party and establishes a framework for the ongoing management of the relationship.
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