QBE launches Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, marking next phase of reconciliation journey

QBE Insurance Australia has announced the launch of its Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), 2026-2029, marking a significant milestone in its reconciliation journey.

QBE’s transition from its Innovate RAP to a Stretch RAP marks a shift from building strong foundations to embedding reconciliation more deeply across the business, with a stronger focus on measurable outcomes and long-term impact. 

The new Stretch RAP builds on this momentum with a focus on four key areas:

• Strengthening workplace inclusion
• Improving financial and customer inclusion
• Expanding supplier diversity
• Supporting community and climate resilience

Sue Houghton, Chief Executive Officer at QBE Australia Pacific, said the Stretch RAP represents an important step forward in the company’s reconciliation journey.

“The launch of our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan marks a defining milestone for QBE. It reflects the progress we’ve made over the past decade, but also our commitment to go further.”

“As an insurer, we recognise the role we play in supporting stronger, more resilient communities. This plan challenges us to deepen our impact by strengthening relationships, expanding opportunities, and embedding reconciliation across our core business practices.”

Shiona Watson, Chief People Officer at QBE Australia Pacific and RAP Executive Sponsor, said the plan reinforces QBE’s focus on action and accountability.

“Reconciliation starts with listening, learning and taking meaningful action. This Stretch RAP sets out clear priorities to build cultural confidence across our organisation, expand opportunities with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and ensure our workplace is inclusive, respectful and safe for all.”

“While we are proud of the progress we’ve made, we know there is more to do, and we remain committed to driving lasting change.”

Since launching its first RAP in 2015, QBE has steadily strengthened relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while expanding opportunities across employment, partnerships and community investment.

For example, in 2024, the QBE Foundation provided a $500,000 seed capital grant to First Australians Capital (FAC), an Indigenous-led organisation supporting access to capital for Indigenous businesses.

Since 2016, FAC has worked with more than 1,000 Indigenous businesses through a culturally informed impact investment approach that fosters self-determination and economic empowerment. Over this time, FAC has helped establish more than 1,300 jobs, supported over 1,085 businesses to grow, and secured more than $90 million in funding for the First Nations economy.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting Indigenous businesses to thrive and drive sustainable growth for generations to come. Building on this, QBE will continue to prioritise partnerships and initiatives that expand employment and development opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of its Stretch RAP.

Karen Mundine, Chief Executive Officer at Reconciliation Australia said, “Through its productive collaborations with industry and First Nations partners, QBE has the potential to drive considerable reconciliation outcomes across its sphere of influence. On behalf of Reconciliation Australia, I commend QBE Insurance on this Stretch RAP and look forward to following its ongoing reconciliation journey.”

View QBE’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan 2026–2029.