Global infrastructure firm outlines new targets to expand cultural capability, employment pathways and procurement with First Nations businesses.
AECOM has announced the launch of its first Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in Australia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to reconciliation with First Nations communities.
The initiative places the company among the small group of organisations—around five percent of RAP partners—that have achieved the Stretch level endorsement under the national reconciliation framework led by Reconciliation Australia.
The announcement was made in Brisbane and signals a new phase in the company’s reconciliation strategy by embedding reconciliation goals into its broader business operations and infrastructure projects.
A Decade-Long Reconciliation Journey
AECOM began its reconciliation journey in 2014 and has progressively expanded its commitments through successive Reconciliation Action Plans.
The newly launched Stretch RAP represents the most advanced stage of that effort, focusing on integrating reconciliation principles into corporate strategy while increasing accountability and measurable outcomes.
Mark McManamny said the milestone reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting meaningful and lasting change.
He noted that as a major infrastructure developer and engineering services provider, the company has an opportunity to ensure that projects respect Indigenous land, cultural heritage and community knowledge.
Strengthening Cultural Capability Across the Workforce
One of the key focus areas of the new plan is improving cultural understanding among employees.
Under the strategy, the company aims to implement a comprehensive cultural learning program, with 95 percent of staff expected to complete structured cultural education training.
The program is intended to build greater awareness of Indigenous cultures, histories and perspectives among employees involved in infrastructure planning and delivery.
Expanding Employment Pathways for First Nations Professionals
Another major priority is increasing representation of First Nations employees within the organisation.
Currently, First Nations professionals represent 0.8 percent of the company’s Australian workforce. The new target aims to increase this figure to 1 percent by 2029.
To support this goal, AECOM plans to review its recruitment policies and human resources processes to remove barriers to participation for Indigenous candidates.
The company will also introduce structured mentoring and career development programs to support First Nations employees in progressing into management and senior leadership roles.
Building Long-Term Partnerships With Indigenous Organisations
The plan also emphasizes collaboration with Indigenous businesses and community organisations.
The company will maintain partnerships with organisations such as:
- CareerTrackers
- Engineering Aid Australia
In addition, the company plans to establish a new partnership and support the creation of an infrastructure-focused Reconciliation Impact Network Group in collaboration with Reconciliation Australia.
Procurement Targets for First Nations Businesses
A central component of the Stretch RAP is expanding procurement from Indigenous-owned companies.
AECOM has committed to maintaining commercial relationships with at least 40 First Nations businesses and allocating a minimum of two percent of third-party supplier spending in Australia to Indigenous enterprises.
The company will also develop a dedicated procurement strategy aimed at strengthening opportunities for Indigenous businesses within major infrastructure supply chains.
Supporting Inclusive Infrastructure Development
Through the new plan, the company aims to ensure that infrastructure projects delivered across Australia contribute to both economic growth and social inclusion.
Corie Taylor explained that the plan was developed in collaboration with employees, including First Nations staff, as well as external advisors who provided cultural guidance and community perspectives.
For the first time, the company’s RAP governance committee also includes an independent First Nations community member to provide external oversight and strengthen accountability.
About the Company
AECOM is a global professional services firm specializing in infrastructure development across sectors including transportation, water, environment, energy and buildings.
The Fortune 500 company reported $16.1 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2025 and provides services across the entire infrastructure project lifecycle—from planning and design to engineering and construction management.
The launch of the Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan marks another step in the company’s efforts to integrate cultural respect, community engagement and sustainable development into its infrastructure projects across Australia.
