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New Forests strengthens its commitment to Indigenous engagement through its first Reconciliation Action Plan
New Forests has taken a step to formalise its approach to Indigenous engagement, launching its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in Australia as a foundation for broader global activity.
A practical framework for global engagement
The Reflect RAP sets out how New Forests will strengthen relationships, build cultural capability, create opportunities and improve governance in support of reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
While focused on Australia, the RAP is intended to inform a more consistent global approach. It provides a practical framework—centred on relationships, respect, opportunities and governance—that can be adapted across regions as the firm develops its Global Indigenous Strategy.
As CEO Mark Rogers notes, the RAP is “not just an Australian commitment — it is the foundation of how we will strengthen our engagement with Indigenous Peoples across our global operations.”
Building on an established foundation
This is New Forests’ first formal RAP, but it builds on more than two decades of engagement with Indigenous communities through both corporate activities and asset management.
In Australia, this includes partnerships with Aboriginal communities to identify and manage cultural heritage across forestry estates, and long-standing engagement with Traditional Owners in the Kimberley through agricultural operations. These partnerships have supported community development, enabled access to cultural sites, and created training and employment opportunities.
Beyond Australia, New Forests has worked with Māori landowners in New Zealand to support sustainable land stewardship and native forest restoration, and with Native American communities in the United States, including initiatives to return land to Tribal ownership. This experience reinforces the importance of long-term relationships, local context and shared value.
From commitment to implementation
Over the next 12 months, the Reflect RAP focuses on establishing stronger foundations across the organisation. This includes building internal understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, strengthening relationships with communities, reviewing policies and practices, and identifying opportunities to contribute to reconciliation through business activities.
Implementation will be overseen by a cross-functional working group with senior leadership support, ensuring accountability and alignment across the business.
Recognising connection to Country
The RAP features artwork by Indigenous Elder Veronica Lulu from Mulan in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, whose Country includes Lake Gregory Station—an Indigenous sub-lease of Yougawalla Pastoral Company that is part of our New Agriculture portfolio.
Her artwork reflects the connection between people, Country and land management, reinforcing the importance of understanding place and perspective in how land is managed.
