Our learning support and mentoring programs in 90 Australian communities directly help children in need achieve their goals through education.
View all programs Our actions toward reconciliation
The Smith Family formally began its reconciliation journey in 2010. In May 2021, we launched our fourth Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), our third Stretch RAP. Currently, we are developing our 2025–2028 RAP, continuing our commitment to fostering a fairer, more equitable Australia. We are grateful for the guidance from our National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, RAP Working Group, State and Territory Activation Groups, and Reconciliation Australia in shaping this next Stretch RAP.
Our vision for reconciliation
As a leading not-for-profit organisation, The Smith Family is dedicated to sector leadership that drives reconciliation and social equity. Our vision is a nation where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children fully benefit from Australia's education and learning opportunities. We aim for a community that deeply respects and understands Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, fostering inclusion and equality.
CEO Doug Taylor reflects on National Reconciliation Week 2025
During National Reconciliation Week 2025, themed “Bridging Now to Next,” our team engaged in activities designed to build awareness and support, including:
• A screening of the documentary We Don’t Need a Map
• A nationwide team quiz
• A panel discussion hosted by our corporate partner Hatch titled Bridging Futures: Partnerships for Lasting Change
These events, alongside participation from volunteers such as VIEW members, fostered deeper understanding and dialogue between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and non-Aboriginal peoples.
We continue to develop strong partnerships with external stakeholders and our National Advisory Group to drive reconciliation outcomes. Cultural competence is enhanced through ongoing Cultural Awareness Learning Strategy implementation and regular Acknowledgement/Welcome to Country protocols at all meetings. A refreshed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment and Volunteering Strategy is underway to increase and retain paid and volunteer team members.
There really were some wonderful opportunities to reflect, learn and grow. Of course, the work of Reconciliation is ongoing and I will certainly think about how I can continue to challenge myself to Be Brave and Make Change - each of our individual contributions to this work matter.
Working within the four pillars of reconciliation
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Relationships
We strengthen connections by actively participating in National Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC Week, and ongoing engagement with our Learning for Life partner schools throughout the year. -
Respect
Our team incorporates Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country at all key events, ensuring respectful and welcoming environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities.
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Opportunities
Our procurement policy aims for at least $950,000 in spending with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, creating economic empowerment and fostering inclusive growth within these communities. -
Governance
A dedicated new business unit leads cultural governance, focusing on improving employment practices and communications to support self-determination and cultural safety.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programs
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Our actions toward reconciliation
The Smith Family recognises our responsibility and role in working with others to create a fairer and more equitable society for all Australians. -
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
The Indigenous Youth Leadership Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students living in remote or very remote areas to attend a high performing secondary school and/or university to further their education. -
Reconciliation Action Plan
Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) signals our continued public commitment to the reconciliation process.