Message from our Diversity and Inclusion Champion

Leanne Loan
Executive Director, Policy and Regulation
Diversity and Inclusion Champion

As AMSA’s Diversity and Inclusion Champion, I am proud to join CEO Mick Kinley in presenting our Innovate RAP. 

It describes the steps we will take to further embed the principles of respect, relationships, and opportunities into our concepts of who we are, how we work together, and how we deliver our outcomes as a modern maritime regulator. 

Our Innovate RAP is underpinned by our reconciliation vision of an Australia that is just, equitable, and reconciled. Our vision recognises the value of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as a framework for better recognising and protecting the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

In developing this RAP, we have identified the ways in which reconciliation aligns with our vision and strategic goals, as well as the mutual benefits that arise in the form of shared value. These benefits include:

• Improving safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander domestic commercial vessel operators, at sea and on land.
• Providing a positive experience with a government agency, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities have trust in AMSA.
• Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander insights, knowledge, and perspectives into our approach to marine safety and environment.
• Creating a respectful and welcoming workplace that improves diversity, engagement, and realisation of people’s potential.
• Sharing in national identity and striving for the elimination of racism and discrimination.
• Collaborative co-custodianship of Sea Country and ensuring safe and clean seas.
• Accountability and stewardship, through leading by example in supporting the principles of the UNDRIP in our activities.

At AMSA, every voice matters and every experience adds depth and breadth to our shared understanding. This RAP, therefore, belongs to all AMSA employees, and provides everyone with opportunities to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to reflect on what reconciliation means within our maritime context. This includes fostering awareness and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, while appreciating the unique insights and strengths of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people we are fortunate to call our colleagues.

I am proud to champion this RAP and its implementation. On behalf of AMSA’s Reconciliation Working Group, I invite all our employees and stakeholders to join us on our continued reconciliation journey.