Bupa has launched its third Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for 2023-2026 as part of its commitment to improve health outcomes for First Nations people in Australia.
Bupa developed the third RAP, “Stretch RAP,” in consultation with its RAP Working Group, First Nations Employee Network, and external First Nations advisors.
Stretch RAP focuses on improving health equity, Indigenous employment, and procurement, along with cultural awareness and education. Specifically, Bupa will boost existing efforts to purchase goods and services from First Nations suppliers and increase efforts to recruit, retain, and advance First Nations employees within the organisation – complemented by an ongoing commitment to building cultural awareness and understanding within its people, customers, and the broader community.
Additionally, Bupa will partner with First Nations-led healthcare organisations and other institutions to support better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Bupa launched the first RAP in 2015, followed by an updated plan in 2018.
Nick Stone, incoming acting CEO for Bupa APAC, said the RAP aims to empower Bupa's people to grow their understanding and awareness of First Nations culture and reflect on the true histories and challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people, families, and communities.
“Bupa's vision for reconciliation is an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people enjoy equity and equality and are living longer, healthier, happier lives as we work together to make a better world,” Stone said.
“The conversation about how best to work with Australia's Traditional Owners and learn from one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world is gaining momentum as we prepare for an expected referendum on a constitutional voice to Parliament, which Bupa supports.”
