Press Media Release  August 29, 2012

 National Symposium to tackle Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Sexual and Reproductive Health

Australia’s leading sexual health and family planning and Aboriginal health organisations are meeting in Adelaide to map out a national plan to improve the sexual health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

 The symposium, the first of its type, is being run by Sexual Health & Family Planning Australia and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation. 

 “This is the opportunity of a generation to develop an engagement and collaboration strategy to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” said Kaisu Vartto from SHine SA, the host agency.

 Agencies from every state and territory will be in attendance at the symposium, being held on September 7 at SHine SA, 64c Woodville Road, Woodville.

 Dr Joanne Ramadge, SH&FPA’s CEO says “this is a significant event not only because it is a national first but it is the beginning of a collaboration that will tackle sexual and reproductive health issues with Aboriginal people in a very practical way”.

 The aim of the Symposium is to develop a Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Action Plan with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that will address the current and significant areas of SRH need in many Aboriginal communities by identifying the practical and achievable actions that need to be taken.  

“We expect that the day will produce a blue-print for action at a national level.”

 Additionally the Symposium will provide an opportunity to share knowledge between sexual health and family planning organisations and Aboriginal organisations, develop new and meaningful networks with key stakeholders, and identify realistic activities that will inform future research, policy and practice. 

 More information or interviews contact SHineSA Media Adviser Lesley Johns 0412 583 577.