The PALS Schools Reconciliation Awards have been created by the Department of Indigenous Affairs in partnership with BHP Billiton, and with the support of the Department of Education and training.
BHP Billiton
BHP Billiton’s support for the PALS program reflects the company's commitment to further improving and developing the relationship between Indigenous Australians and the wider community.
BHP Billiton believes in the value of education and recognises the important role that the PALS Reconciliation Awards program plays in promoting and achieving Reconciliation throughout the Western Australian community, and aims to lead the way through partnerships with Indigenous people that deliver sustainable benefits to the communities in which it operates.
PALS complements BHP Billiton's own 'Investment in Indigenous Affairs’, which encompasses a range of initiatives to help Indigenous people achieve economic independence.
These include Indigenous education, training, employment, leadership and sports partnerships with a range of organisations committed to sustainable Indigenous relationship building.
The partnership with the Department of Indigenous Affairs helps BHP Billiton work towards achieving excellence in its cross-cultural programs, through the development of harmonious relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
BHP Billiton and Reconciliation Australia have developed the Indigenous Governance Awards: Recognising Excellence to pay tribute to strong, effective Indigenous organisations that benefit the community. The ongoing awards scheme recognises best practise in Indigenous governance and is open to incorporated Indigenous organisations nationwide.
To learn more about BHP Billiton visit www.bhpbilliton.com
Department of Education and Training
The Department of Education and Training and the Aboriginal Education and Training Directorate supports the PALS program because it encourages students in Western Australian schools to improve their knowledge of and actively get involved in reconciliation issues.
This will ultimately improve the possibility of further reconciliation throughout the community.
Other PALS supporters
The Department of Indigenous Affairs acknowledges the support from other organisations and individuals who helped develop the PALS website.
