Engineering group Sandvik renews commitments to Aboriginal collaboration in Australia
Global engineering group Sandvik has launched a new 2026 to 2028 Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in Australia, which sets new commitments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment, supplier participation, cultural capability and organisational accountability.
The two-year plan includes a minimum target of 3.5% First Nations representation, with a stretch target of 4%, 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.
Sandvik began its formal reconciliation journey with the Together Towards Tomorrow project in 2016, followed by a Reflect RAP and Innovate RAPs covering 2020 to 2022 and 2023 to 2025. The new plan builds on that work with measurable commitments for the next two years.
Sandvik Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea sales VP Craig Johnston says the milestone must be reflected in continued action.
“Ten years is an important milestone, but reconciliation is ultimately measured by what we do. 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 organisation. Every employee has a role in creating a culturally safe and inclusive workplace and ensuring reconciliation is reflected in the way we work,” Johnston emphasises.
The RAP focuses on action under relationships, respect, opportunities and governance.
Under relationships, Sandvik will strengthen engagement with Traditional Custodians, Elders, First Nations organisations, 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 organisation.
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 Programme 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.
Sandvik Mining social performance lead Alice Currie says after ten years, the company has a much clearer understanding of where it can make a practical difference. She adds that this new RAP translates that experience into specific actions.
“The priority now is delivery. These commitments need to be reflected in everyday decisions across the organisation. That means considering reconciliation in our workplaces, recruitment, supplier relationships and community engagement if we are to create lasting outcomes,” she concludes.