Acknowledgement
Star Aviation acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s First People, and the original and ongoing traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which we all live and work. We recognise their connection to land, waters, sky and community, and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, and to Elders past and present.
Star Aviation’s vision for reconciliation
Star Aviation’s commitment for reconciliation is to acknowledge the past experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognise their connection to the lands, waters and skies.
Together we are encouraged to strive for excellence, embrace change and continue to learn.
We are committed to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples to learn and flourish together.
We will strive to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples on their journey, where they can heal and restore in dignity, with respect, and empowerment with opportunities.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan
Star Aviation’s motto is “Big enough to manage, small enough to care”. We see ourselves as an extended, inclusive family and are proud of our diverse team where there are 41 different nationalities and 51% of employees are female.
It is a natural extension of this diversity and inclusion ethos to ensure that reconciliation is a priority. We want our workforce and operations to reflect diversity of all Australians and the clients we serve.
We acknowledge that most of our head office staff do not have Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island heritage and are looking for partners to support us on the RAP journey. We have invited our staff that identify as First Nations People to partner with us and have also reached out to specialists in the field such as MTS for their guidance and advice. Education of our team members is critical and we have engaged SBS to deliver cultural awareness training to our management team and people leaders.
Symbols
The artwork is a captivating depiction of meaningful connection and community, intricately woven with symbols that reflect Star Aviation’s vision of reconciliation and their deep connection to the land, waterways, and sky. At the bottom of the canvas, the brown bora rings symbolise the land and the connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with their ancestral lands. These rings serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting and honouring the traditional custodians of the land.
Moving upwards, the crosshatching curvy lines represent the tracks and impact that Star Aviation makes on the country. They illustrate the intertwining relationship between the company and the land, acknowledging the responsibility to tread lightly and preserve the environment. Cascading through the middle of the piece, the white dots symbolise the waterways that Aboriginal people are deeply connected to. These waterways serve as lifelines, sources of sustenance, and conduits of cultural significance.
In the top section of the canvas, the sky is depicted, symbolising Star Aviation’s connection to the celestial realm. Within the sky, stars and constellations represent the ancient knowledge passed down through generations, used for tracking, hunting seasons, and navigating the tides. Floating across the middle of the canvas, the bora rings represent an element of Star Aviation’s vision of reconciliation and their core values. Each circle within the rings holds symbolic significance, reflecting different stages of the company’s journey and commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
The beginning of Star Aviation's journey:
The inception of Star Aviation represents a commitment to honour and respect the cultural heritage and traditions of First Nation Australians from the outset. It signifies the company’s dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples perspectives are valued and celebrated.
Safety and culturally safe environments:
Safety is paramount in the aviation industry, and for Star Aviation, it goes beyond physical safety to encompass cultural safety as well. Creating culturally safe environments ensures that all employees, regardless of their background, feel respected, valued, and included. This fosters trust and collaboration within the workforce.
Working together as a community:
Collaboration within the Star Aviation community extends to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples communities as well. By fostering partnerships with First Nation Australian organisations and businesses, the company promotes economic empowerment and social inclusion, creating pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to thrive within the aviation industry.
Individual growth and openness to reconciliation:
Star Aviation is committed to facilitating the personal and professional growth of all employees, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members. Through programs focused on reconciliation and cultural awareness training, the company encourages openness to learning and understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, fostering greater harmony and mutual respect among team members.
Connection to the land and ports across Australia:
Star Aviation recognises the deep spiritual connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the land and ports across the country. By acknowledging and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples land rights and cultural heritage, the company demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation in partnership with Aboriginal custodians.
Accountability and empowerment:
Accountability within Star Aviation extends to upholding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples rights and promoting equitable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through initiatives aimed at empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees and communities, the company promotes economic self-determination and social justice, fostering a culture of mutual respect and empowerment.
Remaining connected to truth and acknowledging past injustices:
Star Aviation acknowledges the historical injustices that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have endured and remains committed to truth-telling and reconciliation. By confronting the legacies of colonisation and systemic discrimination, the company strives to build bridges of understanding and empathy, promoting healing and social cohesion.
Paying respect to the country and ancestors:
Respect for the country and ancestors is at the heart of Star Aviation's values. The company pays respect to First Nation Australian custodianship of the land and honours the wisdom and resilience of First Nation Australian ancestors, recognising their enduring legacy and contributions to Australia's cultural richness and diversity.
The ongoing journey and commitment to growth and reconciliation:
Star Aviation views reconciliation as an ongoing journey that requires sustained commitment and collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. Through ongoing dialogue and action, the company seeks to deepen its understanding of Aboriginal perspectives and histories, driving positive change and fostering greater equity and inclusion for all Australians.
Meet the artist
I am Tarni Jane, a proud First Nations artist, and I am honoured to share my passion for art with you. As a proud Mununjali, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi woman, my art is a reflection of my cultural heritage, beliefs, and the connection I have with my ancestral lands.
I believe in the power of art to tell stories, evoke emotions, and preserve traditions. With each piece I create, I honour the spirit of my people and bring their stories to life. My work is a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements, representing the past, present, and future of my culture.
I hope to inspire, teach and also to learn more about the rich history and vibrant traditions of First Nations people. Visit my website here to learn more.