Sandvik launches new Reconciliation Action Plan after 10-year journey in Australia
Sandvik in Australia has marked 10 years of its formal reconciliation journey by launching its 2026–2028 Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), setting new commitments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment, supplier participation, cultural capability and organizational accountability.
The two-year plan includes a minimum target of 3.5 percent First Nations representation, with a stretch target of 4 percent, increased procurement with First Nations suppliers and a new First Nations Advisory Committee.
The RAP was launched at Sandvik’s Kenwick facility in Boorloo (Perth). Customers, employees, Elders and community representatives attended a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, the cultural performances and the unveiling of new RAP artwork.
Sandvik began its formal reconciliation journey with the Together Towards Tomorrow (T3) project in 2016, followed by a Reflect RAP and Innovate RAPs covering 2020–2022 and 2023–2025. The new plan builds on that work with measurable commitments for the next two years.
Craig Johnston, Vice President – Sales Area Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea at Sandvik Mining, said the milestone must be reflected in continued action.
“Ten years is an important milestone, but reconciliation is ultimately measured by what we do,” Johnston said. “Our new RAP sets clear expectations for strengthening cultural understanding, employment and development opportunities, relationships with First Nations businesses and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. These commitments belong to the whole organization. Every employee has a role in creating a culturally safe and inclusive workplace and ensuring reconciliation is reflected in the way we work.”
Turning commitments into action
The RAP focuses on action under Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance.
Under Relationships, Sandvik will strengthen engagement with Traditional Custodians, Elders, First Nations organizations, customers and community partners, including through initiatives that support First Nations communities.
Under Respect, Sandvik will expand cultural learning and On Country experiences. Senior leaders will participate in immersive experiences with local Traditional Owners, while anti-racism training will continue across the organization.
Sandvik will also review policies and practices to support a culturally safe and inclusive workplace.
Under Opportunities, Sandvik will continue developing its First Nations Pathways Program to create employment and development opportunities and strengthen pathways into mining and engineering.
Sandvik will also seek to expand sustainable commercial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned businesses that meet its commercial and customer requirements.
The new First Nations Advisory Committee will provide culturally informed advice to the Reconciliation Steering Committee, strengthening governance and accountability.
Mununjahli Yugambeh woman Alice Currie, Social Performance Lead, Sales Area Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea at Sandvik Mining, is leading the RAP’s delivery.
“After 10 years, we have a much clearer understanding of where Sandvik can make a practical difference,” Currie said. “This RAP translates that experience into specific actions. The priority now is delivery. These commitments need to be reflected in everyday decisions across the organization. That means considering reconciliation in our workplaces, recruitment, supplier relationships and community engagement if we are to create lasting outcomes.”
Walking Forward Together
The launch also unveiled Sandvik's new RAP artwork, Walking Forward Together, created by proud Wakka Wakka man David Williams, Executive Director and founder of Gilimbaa.
The artwork depicts reconciliation as a shared journey. Its central meeting place symbolizes people, teams and communities coming together, while pathways represent Sandvik’s relationships across Australia. It also acknowledges that Sandvik workplaces operate on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Country and reflects the company’s commitment to cultural respect and positive outcomes for people and Country.
For further information, please contact:
Kate Bills
General Manager – Sustainability, Marketing and Communications
Sales Area Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea
Sandvik Mining
Email: kate.bills@sandvik.com