The Strength of Many: Diversity & Inclusion
Every structure, whether a bridge, a city, or a community, is built from many parts. Strong foundations, interconnected frameworks, and a blend of unique elements come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
The same is true here. Strength comes from the diversity of our people, their perspectives, expertise, and unwavering passion. From engineers shaping skylines to designers reimagining spaces, from project managers guiding vision to problem-solvers finding clarity in complexity, each person plays a role in the whole.
Inclusion is not just a principle—it is the blueprint of success. Every individual, at every level, should feel empowered to contribute, grow, and lead. By fostering an environment where authenticity thrives, where ideas are valued, and where opportunities are accessible to all, the work becomes more than just projects—it becomes impact.
This is about more than working together, it’s about building together. Innovating, challenging, and inspiring one another, knowing that collective strength lies in trust, shared opportunity, and a vision shaped side by side.
Diversity and inclusion are woven into every part of the journey, including reconciliation, guided by deep listening, meaningful action, and a future built on equity and respect.
WALKING TOGETHER
A Journey of Reconciliation
Beneath the shelter of an ancient gum tree, an Elder ran his fingers through the warm earth, lifting it gently before letting it fall—a whisper of history carried on the breeze. Beside him, a younger man listened—not just to words, but to the weight they carried. The Elder did not speak of history as something distant. He spoke of it as a thread, woven into the present, shaping the future. He spoke of relationships—not the kind written in contracts, but the kind built through listening, truth, and action.
“You don’t build bridges by standing on opposite banks,” he said. “You build them by meeting in the middle.”
That understanding is at the core of our journey.
In December 2023, ADG took its first step toward meaningful reconciliation by adopting a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)—a commitment to learn before leading, listen before speaking, and understand before acting. Through this process, ADG laid the foundations for deep engagement, authentic relationships, and lasting impact.
Now, the journey moves forward.
The Next Step: Moving with Purpose
Reconciliation does not stand still. It grows, adapts, and deepens with every conversation, every partnership, and every action taken. Having established a strong foundation through the Reflect RAP, ADG is now stepping forward into the Innovate RAP—a new phase that transforms understanding into action.
True progress does not happen in isolation. ADG is embracing this journey alongside likeminded organisations—contractors, architects, and consultants who share a vision for reconciliation and action.
Together, these partnerships will help foster change that is not just acknowledged, but lived.
As ADG moves into this next phase, the commitment remains clear: to listen deeply, to build relationships with integrity, and to ensure reconciliation is not simply a goal but a guiding principle in everything we do.
What is a RAP?
A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a framework designed to turn words into action, helping organisations create meaningful change alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It focuses on three pillars—relationships, respect, and opportunities—to ensure reconciliation is not just recognised, but lived.
There are four RAP types, each representing different stages of engagement:
Reflect RAP – Learning the Landscape
A time for deep listening, relationship-building, and understanding where real impact can happen.
Innovate RAP – Turning Words Into Action
Strengthening partnerships, embedding reconciliation into everyday practices, and piloting new initiatives.
Stretch RAP – Leading with Purpose
Moving beyond commitment—making reconciliation a core part of strategy, policy, and measurable impact.
Elevate RAP – Driving National Change
A leadership-driven commitment to champion reconciliation at the highest level, influencing systemic change across industries.
ADG has completed the Reflect RAP framework and is moving into the Innovate RAP phase.
Where This Journey Leads
Reconciliation is more than acknowledging the past—it is about shaping a future where equity, respect, and opportunity exist for all.
One of the key challenges today is the underrepresentation of First Nations engineers. The path ahead must remove barriers, support First Nations graduates, and ensure the next generation of engineers has access to pathways that empower them as leaders, creators, and changemakers.
There are no shortcuts. No single action will complete this journey—only movement, only learning, only connection.
And every step forward strengthens the path ahead, ensuring reconciliation is not just remembered, but made real.
FIRST NATIONS SCHOLARSHIP
Empowering First Nations Engineers at
Charles Darwin University
Excellence deserves recognition, and ambition should be met with opportunity. That’s why we have partnered with Charles Darwin University to recognise excellence and ambition to create the ADG First Nations Engineering Award for Excellence.
High-achieving students often face barriers beyond the classroom. Financial constraints, limited industry connections and a lack of professional experience can make it harder for even the most talented individuals to reach their full potential. This award is designed to remove those obstacles, providing both financial support and a paid summer internship to ensure students get the resources, mentorship, and industry exposure they need to thrive.
Scholarships like this don’t just help students complete their studies—they accelerate careers. The combination of funding and real-world experience means recipients graduate not only with strong academic achievements but also with practical knowledge, professional networks, and a competitive edge in the field.
By supporting First Nations engineers, this initiative strengthens industry diversity, ensures that brilliant minds are recognised and empowered, and helps shape a workforce that reflects the communities it serves.