FRIDAY, 23 FEBRUARY, 2024: HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund proudly launched its inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) yesterday at its Sydney office.

The Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan is aligned with HCF's purpose and values, and Social Sustainability Framework, with an important mission to build healthier communities in Australia.

HCF CEO Sheena Jack said the plan marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to improve healthcare accessibility and health outcomes.

“HCF’s purpose is to bring our human touch to healthcare and as such, we recognise the important contribution we can make to playing our part in a reconciled Australia,” said HCF CEO Sheena Jack.

“As we embark on our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, we’re setting the foundation to establish more meaningful and long-term relationships and contribute to reconciliation in a respectful and meaningful way.

“Importantly, HCF’s Reflect RAP has the full support of our Board and Executive Team. It will be governed by HCF’s Risk, Compliance and Sustainability Committee to ensure we deliver on our commitments and that they remain relevant,” Ms Jack said.

The action areas of HCF's Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan are guided by Reconciliation Australia's framework and focus on Relationships, Respect, Opportunities, and Governance.

“Building genuine relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and businesses, as well as having a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout our organisation will be critical to ensuring our work is meaningful, mutually beneficial, and sustainable,” said HCF Chief Officer People and Culture and Reconciliation Sponsor, Angela Wilcox.

“HCF’s reconciliation journey aims to address important issues such as racism, discrimination, and improved access to healthcare and health outcomes for First Nations communities,” Ms Wilcox said.

Coinciding with the launch, HCF will unveil a bespoke cultural artwork titled, With Unity at our Heart, Together We Thrive created by artist David Williams, a proud Wakka Wakka man and Executive Director of Gilimbaa, a 100%-indigenous-owned, full service creative agency.

“Gilimbaa was delighted to be asked to develop an artwork for HCF as it embarks on its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan,” Mr Williams said.

“The bespoke artwork was created to tell HCF’s reconciliation story and to embody its vision for reconciliation as a country where everyone embraces with pride First Nations heritage and culture."

The artwork’s symbolism captures HCF’s core values and role as a trusted industry leader in influencing others to stand for and work towards a reconciled Australia.

ENDS

Media enquiries to:

Joni Thomes 0475 576 738 or jthomes@hcf.com.au

ABOUT HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers almost 2 million members with health and life insurance, and travel and pet insurance. HCF has been awarded Outstanding Value Health Insurance by Canstar eight years in a row from 2016-2023. On average over the last ten years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us