Indigenous Reconciliation

Strategic Plan

Indigenous Reconciliation Strategic Plan 2019-2022

As the peak association for solicitors in NSW, the Law Society is dedicated to working for a just and fair legal system, having served the community for over 125 years. Our Indigenous Reconciliation Strategic Plan for 2019-2022 is an integrated part of the organisation's core business. This plan will sit alongside the Law Society’s 2019-2022 Strategic Plan.

The Law Society acknowledges that there is an unacceptable gap in life expectancy between the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia and other Australians. We believe that closing the gap is of critical importance both for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and for the well-being of our nation. Reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians is both necessary for closing the gap and for the well-being of Australia as a nation. The Law Society is committed to addressing the determinants of this gap in life expectancy that are within its sphere of influence.

We are privileged to have taken part in Reconciliation Australia’s Reconciliation Action Plan program. The Law Society made and maintained many new relationships, which has enabled more informed work in Indigenous affairs. This is particularly so in the Law Society’s advocacy for the protection and promotion of the rights of Indigenous people in NSW, and in providing opportunities for the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait individuals and communities to be heard by governments and other institutions.

Objectives of the 2019-2022 Plan

The Indigenous Reconciliation Strategic Plan 2019-2022 Plan has four broad objectives. The commitments made in respect of these objectives aim to both build on existing work; and to deepen the Law Society’s commitment to better outcomes for Indigenous people, within the legal profession and in the wider community.

  1. Engage in effective advocacy, in order to work for better outcomes for Indigenous peoples in NSW, in and through the legal system, and in respect of developing and maintaining the Law Society’s relationships with stakeholders in Indigenous affairs.
  2. Improve cultural competency and awareness within the Law Society and in the legal profession.
  3. Create and provide opportunities for Indigenous law students; lawyers; non-lawyers working in the legal context; and Indigenous enterprise.
  4. Undertake effective reporting and compliance management.

More information on the 2019-2022 Plan can be found here.