My journey towards reconciliation by Louise Meadows
A reconciliation journey for any organisation must start with the recognition that each individual within it is on their own journey. I began mine the day I arrived in this incredible country 18 years ago.
I’ve made mistakes, said the wrong words, and learned from them. I’ve sought the wisdom of others and learned to walk beside our First Nations community.
I think this has also been the case for Greater Western Water.
Our approach to reconciliation today is worlds apart from where it was eight years ago. We see it in the level of business commitment, which now goes far beyond compliance, and in the ownership of actions by leaders at all levels. It’s no longer just relying on our Team Leader, First Nations Partnerships, Aunty Kym to do the work for us.
Kessia Thomson and I unveiling the GWW RAP artwork at the RAP launch in 2023.
A crucial step in this journey was completing a cultural audit across the whole business. It allowed us to take an honest look at ourselves as a business, and where we can do better. This is our work to do, and we understand that now.
On a personal level, I know I’m a better leader today because of my personal journey. While the truth has been confronting at times, it’s been necessary to truly take the next steps.
We’re now in the second year of our RAP, and it’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come. The commitments we’ve made are no longer just words on paper – they’re actions embedded in how we operate every day.
One of the most powerful moments for me has been seeing our people write and share their own Acknowledgement of Country through our workshops. Each time I hear one, I’m reminded of how deeply this simple act makes everyone in the room pause and reflect.
Our people aren’t just participating in the work – they’re leading it.
This collective action reflects the beginning of a cultural shift across the organisation, which has been profound for many of us. Reconciliation is no longer seen as a set of goals driven by a few.
What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. Every small action, every conversation, and every effort today is building the foundation for a future of reconciliation.
Our work is far from finished, but we’re now learning to walk side by side with our First Nations community.
I couldn’t be prouder of the progress we’ve made together.