SJYS Innovate RAP 2026-28

We are proud to launch St John’s Youth Services’ Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, marking the next chapter in our ongoing commitment to reconciliation.

This is our fourth RAP and a deliberate return to an Innovate phase after two Stretch RAPs. It reflects a decision to pause, strengthen foundations, and ensure the reconciliation work we have built over many years is embedded across our services, governance and culture.

At St John’s Youth Services, reconciliation is not a standalone initiative. It is part of how we support young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people who are disproportionately affected by housing insecurity. Our work is grounded in the understanding that safe housing, cultural connection and self determination are deeply linked.

This RAP has been developed through deep listening and collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, Elders, community partners and our teams. It continues to centre lived experience and community voice, including the ongoing guidance of the Port Grannies Group and our Aboriginal Cultural Broker.

The Innovate RAP focuses on four key areas: relationships, respect, opportunities and governance. Across these areas, we are committing to strengthening cultural safety within our organisation, growing meaningful partnerships, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment and procurement, and building strong accountability structures to guide our work.

Our vision for reconciliation is clear. We want an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have equal and equitable access to safe and secure housing, and where truth telling, respect and inclusion are embedded in everyday practice. As an organisation working on Kaurna Country, this responsibility is one we carry with care.

The RAP artwork, created by young Kaurna artist Tikana Telfer, visually represents this journey. It speaks to continuity, resilience and the shared responsibility of walking alongside young people as they shape their own futures, drawing strength from culture, family and community.

We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the development of this RAP, including our young people, Elders, RAP Committee members and partners. Reconciliation is ongoing work, and this plan sets out how we will continue to live that commitment in practical and meaningful ways over the next two years.

You can read the full Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026–2028 here.