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Statement – Closing the Gap Day
Date of Issue: 
March 19, 2026

The Pathway to Justice, Equality and Healing

East Gippsland Shire Council is reaffirming its commitment to reconciliation and improved outcomes for First Nations communities on Closing the Gap Day.

Council CEO Fiona Weigall said reconciliation has long been entrenched in Council’s planning and decision-making.

“Our commitment to reconciliation has been embedded in Council processes and planning documents for many years,” Ms Weigall said.

“As a large employer in the region, we embrace the opportunity to enable and empower our staff to reflect, learn and contribute, as we play our part in advancing reconciliation and supporting First Nations communities across East Gippsland.”

Council’s adopted Council Plan 2025–2029 reinforces this commitment by embedding reconciliation into its priorities and actions. The plan includes a clear pledge to implement Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and supports the national Closing the Gap Agreement.

Council continues to review its work and performance against the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, focusing on strengthening relationships, promoting cultural respect and awareness, and creating economic opportunities.

This ongoing work is helping to shape Council’s approach to the Priority Reform Areas and deliver meaningful, long-term change.

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