At UDLA, reconciliation is more than a responsibility. It is central to how we learn and design. We believe landscapes and communities should reflect the deep cultural histories and diverse identities of this country. This is why the voices and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples must be our priority. In this way, we are respecting, honouring and embedding Country in all that we do.

Since our inception in 2006, UDLA has been walking this reconciliation journey. Over nearly two decades, we have had the privilege of working alongside Elders, Traditional Owners, cultural consultants, and communities across many regions. These relationships have shaped our practice and deepened our understanding of what it means to design with and on Country. They remind us that the places we create are not just physical outcomes but rather living landscapes that hold spirit, memory, and knowledge.

Our Innovate RAP is a framework to formalise this long-held commitment. It is led by Country and strengthened by the relationships we continue to build. Through it, we aim to nurture respectful partnerships, foster cultural capability, and create real pathways for collaboration, employment, and leadership for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We know reconciliation is not a destination but an ongoing process of reflection, action, and accountability. Each step offers us the chance to listen more deeply, to improve, and to honour the stories and custodianship of Country.

These symbols were originally drawn by Emily Rose during the development of Ancient Tracks – New Journeys. With Emily’s permission, we thickened the lines to carry the colours and textures of Country, reminding us of how projects are places that hold spirit and knowledge, extending well beyond their physical form.

"Rising from the panels is the circular centre – the base and support – imprinted with ephemeral prints of our Whadjuk Boodjar. The circle reflects the meeting place, where people gather together, surrounding the fire, to share stories, form relationships, and make decisions as one.”

“Stepping stones carry messages of each staff member’s effort to walk together on the shared vision, reminding us that reconciliation is built one step at a time. These stones also carry the RAP vision symbols, reinforcing the collective journey. A singular line of dots speaks of the stars– a reminder of our responsibility to care for Country, and of the continuous passing of these messages to future generations."

EMILY ROSE - ARTIST

We invite our colleagues, partners, and peers to walk with us on this path. Together, we can ensure that the voices of First Nations peoples are not only heard but actively shape the places we imagine and the communities we help build now and for generations to come.

You can read the UDLA Innovate RAP document here.