Our vision for reconciliation is crucial because it embodies our core values of Striving for Equality, Acting from the Heart, and Working Better Together. We believe that true reconciliation can only be achieved when there is equity in life outcomes between First Nations and non-First Nations Australians. By Striving for Equality, we aim to create a future where First Nations peoples are recognised and respected as the traditional custodians of Australia’s lands, seas, and skies.
Acting from the heart, we are committed to ensuring that all women, including gendered diverse people, and First Nations women experience increased wellbeing, safety, and security in their homes. We also aim to provide culturally appropriate housing pathways and social support for those at risk of housing insecurity and homelessness.
Working better together, we recognise the right to and capacity for self-determination of First Nations women, women, and gender diverse people. By listening to their voices and collaborating closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Our vision for reconciliation is not just a goal; it is a reflection of our deepest values and our commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination to empower positive change in their lives.
In December 2025, we launched our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Our Innovate RAP is our formal commitment to reconciliation and outlines the steps we will take as a national organisation to achieve reconciliation.
We look forward to sharing updates and progress as we implement our RAP
The art created for our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan is Grounded Voices, Rising Futures by Alysha Menzel.
Alysha is a First Nations creative and a proud descendant of the Samsep people from Erub Island in the Torres Strait.
About the work, she says:
Grounded Voices, Rising Futures tells the story of voices rising across the continent from Country, community and lived experience. It reflects YWCA’s vision for reconciliation: a future where equity cannot exist without justice, and where the leadership of First Nations people – particularly women and gender-diverse people – is centred and respected.
Read the full artwork story here
In February 2023, we launched our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Our Reflect RAP is our formal commitment to reconciliation and outlines the steps we committed to as a national organisation to achieve reconciliation.
The art on our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan was done by Lani Balzan. Lani is an Aboriginal artist and graphic designer specialising in designing Indigenous canvas art, graphic design, logo design, Reconciliation Action Plans design and document design.
Lani is a proud Aboriginal woman from the Wiradjuri people of the three-river tribe. Her family originates from Mudgee but she grew up all over Australia and lived in many different towns starting her business in the Illawarra NSW and recently relocating to Mid-North Queensland.
The artwork represents the connection YWCA has with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their culture, overall it is the focus on closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people by developing respectful, trusting and mutually beneficial relationships.
YWCA Australia proudly supports an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. Read our full statement here.