As we mark National Reconciliation Week 2025, Bridging Now to Next –It challenges every leader to reflect on where they stand and what action they’re taking to move reconciliation forward in a time of uncertainty.
Before the referendum, many organisations had momentum. Reconciliation was visible, events, RAPs, statements of commitment. But now, many leaders are pausing. Conversations have become quieter. Strategies are on hold.
For executives across finance, property, tech, and retail, the uncertainty feels real. Reconciliation is being reframed as a political risk. Diversity and inclusion budgets are under pressure. Globally, anti-DEI rhetoric is gaining traction and Australia is not immune.
Politics is a distraction. Inaction is the real risk.
Reconciliation has never followed a straight path. Today, the environment is more complex than ever. The referendum’s impact still weighs heavily, and the political climate has shifted. In this environment, some organisations are stepping back, doing less, saying less, committing less. But doing less isn’t neutral. It’s a decision.
Internationally, reconciliation is being advanced through structural reform, truth-telling, and Indigenous leadership. By contrast, Australia is increasingly under pressure to move beyond symbolic gestures and embed real, accountable progress.
Inaction in this moment signals stagnation, not strategy.
A new approach is gaining momentum
Purposefully, some organisations are resetting. They’re moving beyond performative action and embedding First Nations perspectives in governance, procurement, partnerships, and people strategy.
This is what it means to walk in two worlds, balancing commercial priorities with cultural integrity. Letting past lessons guide future action. And recognising that reconciliation is not a campaign, it’s a commitment.
Microsoft is one such example. By resetting their First Nations strategy from governance and leadership coaching to community partnerships, they’ve shown what’s possible when impact is embedded across the organisation.
At 15xB, we partner with organisations ready to take the next step. Whether you’re navigating internal uncertainty, questioning your current approach, or ready to act with purpose, we help you bridge now to next. With precision, clarity, and community at the centre.
Ask yourself – What are you doing now?
Because leadership is defined not by what we say when things are clear, but by what we do when the path ahead is uncertain.
Ready to move forward with purpose? Let’s talk.