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Aboriginal Health and #Disability #NDIS : $3 million plan to address the cultural barriers and disadvantage

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“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are 1.8 times more likely to have a disability than other Australians

“We are announcing today up to $3 million in funding over three years for two targeted projects that will support the Plan; a research project to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and ex-prisoners with disability as well as a trial on integrated health and education approaches to support students with disability in remote communities.”

Federal Government Press Release 17 October 2017

Read 23 NACCHO Aboriginal Health and Disability Articles

Read 18 NACCHO Aboriginal Health and NDIS Articles

A $3 million plan has been unveiled to address the cultural barriers and disadvantage faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability.

Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, Assistant Minister for Disability Services, Jane Prentice and Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, said the Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability (the Plan) will drive better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, their families and carers.

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“We are announcing today up to $3 million in funding over three years for two targeted projects that will support the Plan; a research project to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and ex-prisoners with disability as well as a trial on integrated health and education approaches to support students with disability in remote communities.”

Assistant Minister Prentice said consultations over the last three years show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability face unique challenges.

“The Plan recognises the importance of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, particularly in remote locations.

“We need to ensure services are delivered within a cultural framework that is appropriate for the community’s customs and practices.”

The plan identifies five key priority areas for action:

  • Housing – access to appropriately designed shelter and accessible, well-designed communities that are fully inclusive of all residents.
  • Justice System – the right to be free from racism and discrimination and a disability-inclusive justice system
  • Education – an inclusive high quality education system that is responsive to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability
  • Economic security – including employment and business ownership opportunities
  • Health Services – that meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability to ensure the highest possible health and wellbeing outcomes.

See Detail Below or in the Plan

“By addressing these issues head on, this Plan aims to achieve improved outcomes and overall social, emotional, cultural, and economic wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability and their families and carers,” Minister Porter said.

Extract- Executive Summary

The Australian Government is committed to building an environment that enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability to achieve improved life outcomes and overall social, emotional, cultural and economic wellbeing.

The development of a dedicated Australian Government plan to improve outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability seeks to build the capacity of service systems, including disability services and Indigenous programs, to better meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability in a culturally safe and appropriate way. The Plan also aims to support workers and carers in their continuing efforts in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The Plan acknowledges that disability is everyone’s responsibility:

• Australian Government

• state/territory government

• local government

• business and industry sectors

• not–for–profit and community organisations

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, communities and organisations.

The Plan is the first of its kind and will be built on over time. The Plan will build on significant work currently being undertaken by the Australian Government to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability. Consultations on the Plan have been undertaken over the last three years across government agencies together with community stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, their representative organisations, researchers and community organisations.

The Plan highlights five key areas that stakeholders view as priorities for future consideration by the Australian Government, highlighting work that is already underway in these areas, along with potential strategies to address each of the areas:

1. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability have access to appropriately designed shelter and live in accessible, well designed communities that are fully inclusive of all their residents.

2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability have the right to:

• be free from racism and discrimination

• have their rights promoted

• a disability inclusive justice system.

3. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability achieve their full potential through participation in an inclusive, high quality education system that is responsive to their needs. People with disability have opportunities for lifelong learning.

4. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, their families and carers have opportunities to gain economic security through employment and business ownership, enabling them to plan for the future and exercise choice and control over their lives.

5. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability attain the highest possible health and wellbeing outcomes throughout their lives, enabled by all health services capabilities to meet the needs of people with disability.

6 .To ensure that the Plan leads to substantive and meaningful change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, any actions or strategies under the Plan must be:

Measurable The priorities and actions outlined in the Plan must be measurable to track progress and outcomes.

Replicable While Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities are diverse, there needs to be some consistency in approach and general principles for success that can be applied across different communities.

Sustainable The Plan represents a starting point in the development of a new approach for improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a disability. The Plan seeks to outline reform and action that will be sustainable over the long-term.

Flexible The Plan recognises that different people and different communities have different needs. While adhering to principles of sustainability and best practice in the delivery of services, implementation needs to be responsive to the unique requirements of individuals and communities.

Cultural The Plan recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability will have similar physical and structural requirements as non–Indigenous people, but that service delivery needs to be undertaken in a cultural context to achieve success.

Area 5: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability attain the highest possible health and wellbeing outcomes throughout their lives, enabled by all health and disability services having the capability to meet their needs.

Why is it important?

Holistic health care and coordination between health and disability services are paramount for those with disabilities. Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, those with a disability and those without, access Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled health services as they deliver holistic, comprehensive and culturally appropriate health care, and have an understanding of the cultural needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

While these services meet general health needs through comprehensive primary health care, there is still a need for health workers to receive appropriate training on disability issues. Workers aware of disability needs are able to facilitate appropriate referral pathways for clients to receive any required additional disability services and supports.

Access to disability services is limited by cultural considerations as well as by geographical location, environmental factors, capacity and level of need. Cultural safety can be at risk where the only service within geographic reach is designed for the general population without achieving cultural competency for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander care.

Summary of press release

The Australian Government is committed to working in a spirit of collaboration with states and territories, local government, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and communities and organisations to deliver real outcomes and foster greater opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, their families and carers.

 

Aboriginal Health Events This Week #OTCC2017 #NNW2017 #F1000DA17 #SaveADate #NACCHOagm2017 #BlackLivesMatter

THIS WEEK follow on Twitter

15-21 October   National Nutrition Week 2017 Follow  #NNW2017

17-19 October  Oceania Tobacco Control Conference to be held in Hobart Tasmania  Follow #OTCC2017

18 -20 October  : 35th Annual CRANAplus Conference Broome  Follow #CRANAplus2017

20 October : ‘Most influential’ health leaders to appear in key forum at major rural medicine conference Follow #RMA17

18- 20 October First 1000 Days Summit Follow #F1000DA17

NEXT WEEK ONWARDS

26-27 October  :Diabetes and cardiovascular research, stroke and maternal and child health issues.

31 October –2 Nov  : #NACCHOAGM2017  Members Meeting Canberra

2 November Black Lives Matter Founders and leaders visit Australia to accept 2017 Sydney Peace Prize

15 November  One Day NATSIHWA Workshop SA Forum

14- 15 November  : 6th Annual NHMRC Symposium on Research Translation.

15 -18 November  :National Conference on Incontinence Scholarship Opportunity close 1 September

27-30 November  :Indigenous Allied Health Australia : IAHA Conference Perth

December 7-8 Aboriginal Men and Family Violence Conference in Adelaide

14 December Shepparton  One Day NATSIHWA Workshop VIC Forum

11-12 April 2018  :6th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium  Canberra call for extracts

If you have a Conference, Workshop Funding opportunity or event and wish to share and promote contact

Colin Cowell NACCHO Media Mobile 0401 331 251

Send to NACCHO Social  Media

mailto:nacchonews@naccho.org.au

15-21 October 2017 National Nutrition Week 2017 is 15-21 October 2017 #NNW2017

With beginnings more than 20 years ago, National Nutrition Week is Nutrition Australia’s annual healthy eating awareness campaign.

Read over 30 NACCHO Aboriginal Health and Nutrition articles HERE

The theme for National Nutrition Week 2017 is Try For 5 – an annual campaign developed by Nutrition Australia that aims to encourage Australians to increase their vegetable consumption to the recommended five serves per day.

This year’s campaign is being launched during National Nutrition Week (15-21 October) which coincides with the United Nations’ World Food Day on 16 October.

Each year National Nutrition Week raises awareness around the role of food on our health, and supports the community to enjoy healthy eating. This year we are encouraging families to find more ways to enjoy vegetables, and to eat one extra serve of veg every day.

Thanks to our principle partner Bayer Australia and our other partners and supporters for working with us to encourage Australians to discover more ways to add veg to their day!

About National Nutrition Week

Each year National Nutrition Week raises awareness of the role of food on our health, and supports the community to enjoy healthy eating.

National Nutrition Week always coincides with the United Nations’ World Food Day, which takes place on 16 October.

The food and lifestyle choices we make impact on both our health, and the health of our planet. With childhood obesity rates now around 25% and with Australians identified as being among the highest producers of waste globally, we need to address these issues urgently.

17-19 October  Oceania Tobacco Control Conference to be held in Hobart Tasmania #OTCC2017

The theme of the conference is “From vision to reality: A tobacco-free Oceania”. With smoking rates still significantly high in a number of regions within Oceania, we must not lose sight and focus on the large number of negative health, social and economic impacts on individuals and communities related to tobacco smoking.

In Oceania we truly believe that our vision is not aspirational but must be an achievable reality.

Journalist Marie McInerney, who will cover #OTCC2017 for the Croakey Conference News Service, previews some of the hot conference topics in this Q and A with Sarah White, Director of Quit Victoria and Chair of the OTCC 2017 Program Committee

Read Here

18 -20 October 35th Annual CRANAplus Conference Broome

We are pleased to announce the 35th Annual CRANAplus Conference will be held at Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa in Broome, Western Australia, from 18 to 20 October 2017.

THE FUTURE OF REMOTE HEALTH AND THE INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGY

Since the organisation’s inception in 1982 this event has served to create an opportunity for likeminded remote and isolated health individuals who can network, connect and share.

It serves as both a professional and social resource for the Remote and Isolated Health Workforce of Australia.

We aim to offer an environment that will foster new ideas, promote collegiate relationships, provide opportunities for professional development and celebrate remote health practice.

Conference Website

18- 20 October First 1000 Days Summit

The First 1000 Days Australia Summit is a three-day event that will bring together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, researchers, community members, front- line workers and policy makers involved in areas relevant to the work of First 1000 Days Australia. Lectures, panel discussions and workshops will address topics such as caring and parenting, infant and child development, family strengthening, implementation and translation, as well as a number of other areas.

The theme for the Summit is ‘Celebrating our leadership, strengthening our families’. We invite interested presenters to submit abstracts for oral presentations, workshops and posters that align with the aims, principles and research areas of First 1000 Days Australia, and of First 1,000 Days international.

Registrations are now open

20 October : ‘Most influential’ health leaders to appear in key forum at major rural medicine conference 


‘Most influential’ health leaders to appear in key forum at major rural medicine conference

RMA Presidents’ Breakfast
Friday 20 October 2017
Pullman Albert Park, Melbourne


www.ruralmedicineaustralia.com.au

Australia’s most influential health leaders will discuss critical health policy issues in a key Presidents’ Breakfast forum at the Rural Medicine Australia 2017 conference, to be held in Melbourne in October.Dr Ewen McPhee, President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA), will host the forum and will be joined on the panel by Associate Professor Ruth Stewart, President of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM); Dr Bastian Seidel, President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP); and Dr Tony Bartone, Vice President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA).

26-27 October Diabetes and cardiovascular research, stroke and maternal and child health issues.

‘Translation at the Centre’ An educational symposium

Alice Springs Convention Centre, Alice Springs

This year the Symposium will look at research translation as well as the latest on diabetes and cardiovascular research, stroke and maternal and child health issues.  The event will be run over a day and a half.
The Educational Symposium will feature a combination of relevant plenary presentations from renowned scientists and clinicians plus practical workshops.

Registration is free but essential.

Please contact the symposium coordinator on 1300 728 900 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) or via email at events@baker.edu.au  

31 October –2 Nov #NACCHOAGM2017  Members Meeting Canberra

Welcome to 2017 NACCHO Annual Members’ Conference and AGM

Follow our conference using HASH TAG #NACCHOagm2017

The NACCHO Members’ Conference and AGM provides a forum for the Aboriginal community controlled health services workforce, bureaucrats, educators, suppliers and consumers to:

  • Present on innovative local economic development solutions to issues that can be applied to address similar issues nationally and across disciplines
  • Have input and influence from the ‘grassroots’ into national and state health policy and service delivery
  • Demonstrate leadership in workforce and service delivery innovation
  • Promote continuing education and professional development activities essential to the Aboriginal community controlled health services in urban, rural and remote Australia
  • Promote Aboriginal health research by professionals who practice in these areas and the presentation of research findings
  • Develop supportive networks
  • Promote good health and well-being through the delivery of health services to and by Indigenous and non-Indigenous people throughout Australia.

Where :Hyatt Hotel Canberra

Dates :Members’ Conference: 31 October – 1 November 2017
Annual General Meeting: 2 November 2017

CLICK HERE

2 November Black Lives Matter Founders and leaders visit Australia to accept 2017 Sydney Peace Prize

Black Lives Matter Founders and leaders visit Australia to accept 2017 Sydney Peace Prize

Black Lives Matter Global Network Founders above (from left to right), Opal Tometi, Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza.

The Black Lives Matter Global Network will be awarded the 2017 Sydney Peace Prize (SPP). Its Founders – Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, with Toronto Chapter Leader Rodney Diverlus – will travel to Australia to collect the Prize at the City of Sydney Lecture and Award Ceremony at Sydney Town Hall on November 2.

“To turn a radically inclusive message into a rallying cry for millions of people as the Black Lives Matter Global Network has done requires vision, leadership, heart and courage,” said Archie Law, Chair of the Sydney Peace Foundation.

“Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi and the many other Black Lives Matter leaders challenge us all to rethink, reimagine and reconstruct the societies we live in. This is an urgent and vital challenge, not least here in Australia.”

Since creating the social media hashtag #BlackLivesMatter in 2012, the Black Lives Matter Founders have strategically built the scaffolding of an on-the-ground political network that now has more than 40 chapters worldwide. The movement has become a catalyst for discussion, debate, dissent and personal expression for those who want to see an end to state and racially fuelled violence. Today, Black Lives Matter has developed into a social movement with global reach and relevance.

“We receive this award with tremendous gratitude and in solidarity with organisers throughout Australia who, in the face of egregious oppression, fightback against the state and proclaim that all Black Lives Matter,” said Patrisse Cullors.

Black Lives Matter’s focus on social and economic justice has strong relevance to Australia’s First Peoples who face highly disproportionate rates of imprisonment, death while in custody, and low life expectancy in comparison to non-Indigenous Australians.

“This movement resonates around the globe and here in Australia, where we have become inured to the high incarceration rates and deaths in custody of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s as if their lives do not matter,” said Aboriginal leader, former Commissioner into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, and 2008 Laureate Senator Pat Dodson.

President of Australian South Sea Islanders Port Jackson, Emelda Davis, whose ancestors were brought to Australia as forced labour (‘Blackbirding’), has applauded the Australian recognition of Black Lives Matter and believes its core messages have strong relevance to issues being faced by various black and Indigenous communities in Australia.

“Our untold Australian history of slavery is still unknown to the majority of Australians, but it haunts the minds, hearts and soul of our people. Addressing the hard realities our black and disadvantaged communities face takes guts and tenacity. Black Lives Matter is a bottom-up approach, a call for solidarity and truth telling for First Nation’s people and Australian South Sea Islanders as two of the most disadvantaged races in Australia,” said Ms Davis.

The Sydney Peace Prize is Australia’s international Prize for Peace, awarded by the Sydney Peace Foundation at the University of Sydney with support from the City of Sydney. The Sydney Peace Prize brings the Sydney community together to talk about peace, justice and nonviolence, and to honour some of the world’s most inspiring peacemakers.

Previous recipients of the Sydney Peace Prize include Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Mary Robinson, Arundhati Roy, Senator Pat Dodson, Professor Noam Chomsky, and Naomi Klein.

Tickets and media passes are available for the City of Sydney Lecture and Award ceremony, the Gala Dinner, and an In Conversation hosted by the Wheeler Centre in Melbourne.

The City of Sydney Peace Prize Lecture and Award Ceremony will feature the City of Sydney Peace Prize lecture presented by Black Lives Matter Founders Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi. Other speakers include Larissa Behrendt, Maxine Beneba Clarke, and Lord Mayor Clover Moore. Legendary Aboriginal singer/songwriter Archie Roach will perform.

November 2, 5:30pm- 8:00pm, Sydney Town Hall. Tickets: $25-$45

https://events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/SPPLecture2017

The 2017 Sydney Peace Prize Gala Dinner is the Sydney Peace Foundation’s annual fundraising event, providing an opportunity to celebrate the 2017 SPP recipient and hear from a range of inspiring speakers, including The Hon. Linda Burney MP and Tracey Spicer. Legendary Aboriginal singer/songwriter Archie Roach will perform live.

November 3, 7:00pm-11:00pm, Dockside, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour. Tickets: $265 single – $3,000 table of 12

https://events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/SPPGalaDinner2017

Black Lives Matter Global Network Founders in conversation with Jack Latimore, hosted by the Wheeler Centre.

November 4, 8:00pm-9:00pm, the Melbourne Exhibition and Conference Centre. Tickets: $15-$25

https://www.wheelercentre.com/events/black-lives-matter-in-conversation

Media Opportunities

Black Lives Matter Global Network Chapter Leaders are available for phone interviews, as well as Chair of the Sydney Peace Foundation, Archie Law.

The Founders will also give an address on Wednesday November 1, at the National Press Club Address, Canberra, 11:35am – 1:30pm. Contact:

https://www.npc.org.au/speakers/alicia-garza-patrisse-cullors-rodney-diverlus/

 

 

15 November  One Day NATSIHWA Workshop SA Forum

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association (NATSIHWA) 

Join the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association (NATSIHWA) for a one day CPD networking workshop focussed on current workforce development opportunities.

Upskill and strengthen your skill level in a specialised area and find out what is happening through program development, education and funding opportunities.

Hear from organisations such as: PHN Primary Heath Network, CranaPlus, Autism QLD, Rheumatic Heart, PEPA Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach, Diabetes Australia, IBA Indigenous Business Australia, HESTA Superannuation, 1800 RESPECT, Hearing Australia and more to be annuonced in the coming months (tailored for your specific region).

Register HERE

14-15 November : 6th Annual NHMRC Symposium on Research Translation.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Lowitja Institute, Australia’s national institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research, are proud to be co-hosting the 6th Annual NHMRC Symposium on Research Translation.

This partnership indicates an alignment of priorities and a strong commitment from our two institutions to deliver a measurable, positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Australia’s First Peoples.

Under the theme “The Butterfly Effect: Translating Knowledge into Action for Positive Change”, the Symposium will be an opportunity to bring relevant expertise to the business of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research translation and put forward Indigenous perspectives that inform the most effective policies and programs. It will also be a forum to share knowledge of what successful research looks like at community level and what the key elements of success are.

We look forward to the participation of delegates with community, research and policy expertise, including outstanding keynote speakers Dr Carrie Bourassa (Canada) and Sir Mason Durie (New Zealand). We are confident that through our joint commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research, the Symposium will make a significant contribution to the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families and individuals. This commitment also signals the importance of working together as equal partners, Indigenous and non-Indigenous.

More info HERE

15 -18 November :National Conference on Incontinence Scholarship Opportunity

The Continence Foundation of Australia is offering 10 scholarships to support health professionals to attend the 26th National Conference on Incontinence. The conference will be held in Sydney on 15-18 November 2017.  The conference program and registration brochure can be found here.
This scholarship program is open to registered nurses and physiotherapists with an interest in continence care working in rural and remote areas of Australia. The scholarship includes full conference registration, including clinical workshops and social events, flights and accommodation. The top applicant also has the opportunity to participate in a placement at a Sydney continence clinic. Previous unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to apply.
Applications closed Friday 1 September.
Applications are being taken online. Click here to find out more and to apply.  

27-30 November Indigenous Allied Health Australia : IAHA Conference Perth

iaha

Abstracts for the IAHA 2017 National Conference are now open!

We are calling for abstracts for concurrent oral presentations and workshops under the following streams:
– Care
– Cultures
– Connection

For abstract more information visit the IAHA Conference website at: https://iahaconference.com.au/call-for-abstracts/

December 7-8 Aboriginal Men and Family Violence Conference in Adelaide

Unlike so many other conferences on this subject, our gathering will consist of over 95% Aboriginal speakers and examine what’s really going on with Aboriginal men and their use of violence.

 
Kornar Winmil Yunti (KWY) and No To Violence will be hosting the event which will support and promote good initiatives and ground-breaking approaches to working with Aboriginal men and families to address family violence. Our aim is to take the outcomes of the conference to government and other funding sources to draw attention to the initiatives being undertaken by Aboriginal communities.
 
Registrations are open for this conference now and we’d love it if you could promote the event with the below website.
KWY is an Aboriginal organisation based in Adelaide delivering services across South Australia to Aboriginal families to address family violence. No To Violence is the peak body for organisations and individuals working with men to end their violence and abuse towards family members. Both KWY and NTV are non-profit organisations.

14 December Shepparton  One Day NATSIHWA Workshop VIC Forum

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association (NATSIHWA) 

Join the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association (NATSIHWA) for a one day CPD networking workshop focussed on current workforce development opportunities.

Upskill and strengthen your skill level in a specialised area and find out what is happening through program development, education and funding opportunities.

Hear from organisations such as: PHN Primary Heath Network, CranaPlus, Autism QLD, Rheumatic Heart, PEPA Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach, Diabetes Australia, IBA Indigenous Business Australia, HESTA Superannuation, 1800 RESPECT, Hearing Australia and more to be annuonced in the coming months (tailored for your specific region).

Register HERE

11-12 April 2018 6th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium  Canberra call for extracts

About the Symposium

Drawing upon a tradition which commenced with the first rural and remote health scientific conference ‘Infront Outback’ held in Toowoomba in 1992, the 6th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium will be held in Canberra, 11-12 April 2018.

The Symposium will celebrate 20 years since the establishment of the first university department of rural health in 1997 and will highlight the research and knowledge that followed this innovation.

Outback Infront will celebrate the leadership that has emerged from the rural and remote health research community, while at the same time, support early career academics and the next generation of rural health researchers.

The Symposium will focus on rural and remote health research that informs strategic health policy and health service challenges in rural and remote Australia.

The Symposium will provide an opportunity to share and develop research that seeks to understand and deliver innovative change through building evidence that has the potential to transform health outcomes and service delivery.

Who should attend

The Symposium program will be designed to engage academics, policy makers, expert researchers in rural and remote health and clinician-researchers, as well as emerging and early career researchers.

It will also be relevant to policy makers, university departments of rural health, rural clinical schools, research collaborations and bodies, rural workforce organisations and health services delivery networks and providers.

Program

As well as key presentations from respected researchers in rural and remote health the Symposium will also feature Rogano presentations (scholarly debate on a current research project that answer “how to” questions and encourage scholarly thinking and debate) and a return of the popular Lightning Talk presentations to support early career academics and the next generation of rural health researchers.

Abstracts are now being sought for general presentations, Lightning talks and Rogano presentations

Aboriginal Health Research @NHMRC Road Map 3: A Strategic Framework for Improving Aboriginal Health through Research for public consultation.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has released the draft Road Map 3: A Strategic Framework for Improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health through Research (Road Map 3) for public consultation.

The aims of the public consultation are to:

  1. Seek feedback on the draft Road Map 3, including comments on the objective and priority areas
  2. Identify any gaps in Road Map 3, and
  3. Seek feedback on the inclusion of an Action Plan.

NHMRC has committed to develop Road Map 3 to guide and communicate its objectives and investment in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research for the next decade. Road Map 3 builds on the previous documents, Road Map I (2002) and Road Map II (2010).

From March to July 2017, the NHMRC and its Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus (PCIC) worked with Nous Group (Nous) to conduct a national consultation process for the development of Road Map 3.

The consultation process for Road Map 3 began with a series of interviews with nine leaders from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and research peak bodies.  This was followed by seven workshops across Australia attended by researchers, health workers, government officials and community leaders. An online survey was also made available for those who could not attend the workshops.

Scope of this public consultation

NHMRC is seeking responses to a series of questions related to the development of Road Map 3.

Consultation Questions:

  1. Is the proposed objective of Road Map 3 relevant?  Why/why not?
  2. Are the three priority areas of Road Map 3 accurate?  Why/why not?
  3. Are there any further priority areas to add?
  4. Is there anything missing from Road Map 3?  Please provide further details.
  5. Are there any other comments you would like to make regarding Road Map 3?

Consultation dates:

Opening date – Friday, 13 October 2017 – 12:00pm, AEST

Closing date – Sunday, 10 December 2017 – 11:59pm, AEST

Extensions will not be provided.

Consultation document:

Supporting documents:

Please note: These documents are for information only and are not open for public consultation.

Please note: If you are having problems downloading a document, please right-click on the link and select “Save Target/Link as…” and choose a location to save the file to.

Personal information

Please provide your contact details: Name, Organisation (if relevant), Email, and Phone number.  This information will not be used or disclosed for any other purpose.

How NHMRC will consider submissions

Due consideration will be given to submissions that address the public consultation questions and provide additional evidence that meets the inclusion criteria.  NHMRC’s Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus (PCIC) will provide advice to NHMRC on responses received.

Privacy and confidentiality

After the final document Road Map 3 is released, submissions may be made publicly available via the NHMRC online public consultation portal, unless they have been requested NOT to be published.

How to make your submission

Provide a submission by response to the above questions using the submission form provided below, and email through to NHMRCroadmap3@nousgroup.com.au. (link sends e-mail)

Contact for further information:

Samantha Faulkner, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Adviser

Email: Samantha.faulkner@nhmrc.gov.au (link sends e-mail

WEBSITE

NACCHO Aboriginal Children’s Health : @DoctorBoffa Meningococcal epidemic targeting Indigenous youth in NT ‘must be taken seriously’

” We need all young people to take this very seriously, visit their local health services and be immunised immediately to stop the spread.

This is a really serious disease, it’s a major outbreak. It’s the biggest Australia has ever seen and its confined to Indigenous children under the age of 10…We need all young people to take this very seriously, visit their local health services and be immunised immediately to stop the spread,”

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, Alice Springs, NT Chief Medical Officer Public Health,  Dr John Boffa has urged everyone in the community to take this epidemic very seriously.

He says Aboriginal community controlled health services and NT government clinics were doing well to stop the spread of the virus but warns parents and Indigenous youth that the correct early prevention steps must be taken

 Dr Boffa says the results of this epidemic “highlights the extreme inequality between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in the NT.” He says the NT is desperate for more hands-on help to look after people impacted by the disease.

“We urgently need extra help! We need more nurses throughout the territory. If there are any nurses who want work as locums they should contact the central Australia Aboriginal congress in Alice Springs or send me an email, we want your help!”

Pictures Above Nick Hose : Meningococcal outbreak worries families in Central Australia:

Photo 1 : Vanessa Smith is making sure her three grandchildren are vaccinated against meningococcal

Photo 2 Geraldine Ashby is a remote nurse in Santa Teresa, and a parent

The meningococcal disease outbreak continues to hit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people living in Central Australia, the Barkly, Katherine and Katherine West regions.

Originally Published here with the assistance of NACCHO

This year alone has seen 25 confirmed cases of the W strain, a rapid jump from only three cases last year. All cases have affected only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. To make matters worse, 19 of those cases have been recorded as children younger than the age of 10.

WHAT IS MENINGOCOCCAL?

A rare, life-threatening illness caused by bacterial infection of the blood and/or the membranes that line the spinal cord and brain and occasionally infect other sites, such as large joints.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Fever, neck stiffness, headache, difficulty looking at bright lights, vomiting, diarrhoea, sore muscles or joints, drowsiness or a rash. Babies may refuse food and drink and have a high pitched cry.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

* With antibiotics, but the infection can progress very quickly, so seeking medical attention urgently is vital to survival.

This week, a mass vaccination program is being rolled out in the affected regions. Coordinated by the NT Centers for Disease Control (CDC), government and non-government health services, including Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations will be able to offer NT Health funded vaccines.

A free vaccine will be offered to all Indigenous people aged between 12 months and 19 years, living in remote communities. Aboriginal people aged between 12 months and 19 years living in Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine will also have access to the vaccine.

People are also able to pay for the vaccine at their local doctor. There are two vaccines available – one costs $49 while the other is $118 and authorities have advised that ‘the cheaper one is just as effective’.

Photo: Six-year-old Rexena awaits her vaccination against the disease. (ABC News: Nick Hose)

After working in the public health communal disease sector for nearly 30 years, Mr Boffa, speaking on behalf of the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, has urged for action to be taken as soon as possible in the NT, such as changes to the national child immunisation schedule.

“This epidemic means plans need to be sped up so we’ll have populational protection through routine immunisation of children.”

Dr Boffa says Aboriginal community controlled health services and NT government clinics were doing well to stop the spread of the virus.

“The positive thing is the health system has diagnosed people early, gotten them to hospital and out of the 25 cases in the NT so far, We’ve been able to pick them up quickly and get them effectively treated.”

Dr Boffa warns parents and Indigenous youth that the correct early prevention steps must be taken.

“The disease presents differently and is hard to clearly identify – which is why any sick child with a fever needs to be assessed and get to their local clinic to be checked,” he said.

“If you have a late diagnosis, late being you only miss it by 24 hours, it can kill you.”

 

Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but very serious disease. It is treatable with antibiotics but the infection can progress very quickly. It’s important for people to be aware of the symptoms and to seek medical advice early for either themselves or their children if they have any concerns.

 

 

Aboriginal #MentalHealthWeek @GregHuntMP launches 5th National #MentalHealth and #SuicidePrevention Plan

 

” For the first time this plan commits all governments to work together to achieve integration in planning and service delivery at a regional level. Importantly it demands that consumers and carers are central to the way in which services are planned, delivered and evaluated.

Furthermore this plan recognises the tragic impact of suicide on the lives of so many Australians and sets a clear direction for coordinated actions by both levels of government to more effectively address this important public issue.

This plan is also the first to specifically outline an agreed set of actions to address social and emotional wellbeing, mental illness and suicide amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as a priority, as well as being the first to elevate the importance of addressing the physical health needs of people who live with mental illness and reducing the stigma and discrimination that accompanies mental illness.”

The Hon Jill HennessyChair, COAG Health Council

” Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in mental health services is fundamental to building culturally capable models of care. Governance, planning processes, systems and clinical pathways will be more effective if they include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers at key points in the consumer journey, such as assessment, admission, case conferencing, discharge planning and development of mental health care plans.

Strong ACCHSs are an important component of a culturally responsive mental health service system.

These organisations can play a vital role in:

  1. prevention and early intervention to address risk of developing mental health problems
  2. enabling access to primary and specialist mental health services and allied health
  3. facilitating the transition of consumers across the primary and specialist/acute interface
  4. connecting consumers with the range of community-based social support services
  5. working with mainstream community mental health and hospital services to enhance cultural capability through provision of cultural mentorship, advice and training placements for non-Indigenous staff
  6. working as part of multi-agency and multidisciplinary teams aimed at delivering shared care arrangements.

Building a culturally competent service system also requires a well-supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health workforce.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health workers require opportunities and support to attain advanced qualifications and recruitment and retention processes that maximise opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and workforces should be complemented by mainstream services and clinicians that are responsive to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

From Page 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

Download 84 page Plan PDF HERE

 Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan

Health Minister Greg Hunt Press Release 14 October

Around four million Australians who experience a mental health condition will benefit from a strengthened mental health system under the Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.

The Plan, which was endorsed in August by all health ministers at Council of Australian Governments Health Council, has been released as Mental Health Week comes to a close

The Turnbull Government is committed to ensuring people with mental health challenges get the support and treatment they need and this Plan will see a more coordinated national approach to mental health from all governments and stakeholders.

More than 2,800 Australians take their lives each year and the Plan will provide an additional focus of suicide prevention.

Evidence-based approaches and strategies to prevent suicide will be implemented through a community-wide approach, including more effective follow-up support for people who have attempted to take their own lives.

The Turnbull Government recently committed $47 million for more frontline services for suicide prevention.

Last week as part of our over $4 billion annual investment in mental health we launched the Head to Health website, which is a one-stop shop for services and resources delivered by some of Australia’s most trusted mental health service providers.

NACCHO Aboriginal #MentalHealthDay : Australia’s new digital #mentalhealth gateway now live

NACCHO Aboriginal #MentalHealthDay 2/2 @KenWyattMP Minister Scullion : Download Building a Better Understanding of Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health

And yesterday the Turnbull Government announced a wide ranging package of reforms to make private health insurance simpler and more affordable for Australians, including better access for mental health services without a waiting period.

A particular focus of the Plan is addressing eating disorders. These can have a catastrophic impact on both individuals and their families. It will be a personal priority as we frame further policy in the future.

The Plan includes eight nationally agreed priority areas and 32 coordinated actions for the next five years with a view to achieving an integrated mental health system.

What will we do?

From Page 3o + Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

Action 10 Governments will work with PHNs and LHNs to implement integrated planning and service delivery for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at the regional level. This will include:

  1. engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the co-design of all aspects of regional planning and service delivery
  2. collaborating with service providers regionally to improve referral pathways between GPs, ACCHSs, social and emotional wellbeing services, alcohol and other drug services and mental health services, including improving opportunities for screening of mental and physical wellbeing at all points; connect culturally informed suicide prevention and postvention services locally and identify programs and services that support survivors of the Stolen Generation
  3. developing mechanisms and agreements that enable shared patient information, with informed consent, as a key enabler of care coordination and service integration
  4. clarifying roles and responsibilities across the health and community support service sectors
  5. ensuring that there is strong presence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership on local mental health service and related area service governance structures.

Action 11 Governments will establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Subcommittee of MHDAPC, as identified in the Governance section of this Fifth Plan, that will set future directions for planning and investment and:

  1. provide advice to support the development of a nationally agreed approach to suicide prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for inclusion in the National Suicide Prevention Implementation Strategy
  2. provide advice on models for co-located or flexible service arrangements that promote social and emotional wellbeing incorporating factors, including a person’s connection to country, spirituality, ancestry, kinship and community
  3. identify innovative strategies, such as the use of care navigators and single care plans, to improve service integration, support continuity of care across health service settings and connect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with community-based social support (non-health) services
  4. provide advice on suitable governance for services and the most appropriate distribution of roles and responsibilities, recognising that the right of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to self-determination lies at the heart of community control in the provision of health services
  5. oversee the development, dissemination and promotion in community, hospital and custodial settings of a resource that articulates a model of culturally competent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health care across the health care continuum and brings together (a) the holistic concept of social and emotional wellbeing and (b) mainstream notions of stepped care, trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented practice
  6. provide advice on workforce development initiatives that can grow and support an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health workforce, incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff into multidisciplinary teams and improve access to cultural healers
  7. provide advice on models of service delivery that embed cultural capability into all aspects of clinical care and implement the Cultural Respect Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health 2016–2026 in mental health services
  8. provide advice on culturally appropriate digital service delivery and strategies to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to register for My Health Record and to understand the benefits of shared data.

Action 12 Governments will improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access to, and experience with, mental health and wellbeing services in collaboration with ACCHSs and other service providers by:

12.1. developing and distributing a compendium of resources that includes (a) best-practice examples of effective Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health care, (b) culturally safe and appropriate education materials and resources to support self-management of mental illness and enhance mental health literacy and (c) culturally appropriate clinical tools and resources to facilitate effective assessment and to improve service experiences and outcomes

12.2. increasing knowledge of social and emotional wellbeing concepts, improving the cultural competence and capability of mainstream providers and promoting the use of culturally appropriate assessment and care planning tools and guidelines

12.3. recognising and promoting the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership and supporting implementation of the Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration (Appendix B)

12.4. training all staff delivering mental health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly those in forensic settings, in trauma-informed care that incorporates historical, cultural and contemporary experiences of trauma.

Action 13 Governments will strengthen the evidence base needed to improve mental health services and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through:

13.1. establishing a clearinghouse of resources, tools and program evaluations for all settings to support the development of culturally safe models of service delivery, including the use of cultural healing and trauma-informed care

13.2. ensuring that all mental health services work to improve the quality of identification of Indigenous peoples in their information systems through the use of appropriate standards and business processes

13.3. ensuring that future investments are properly evaluated to inform what works

13.4. reviewing existing datasets across all settings for improved data collection on the mental health　and wellbeing of, and the prevalence of mental illness in, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

13.5. utilising available health services data and enhancing those collections to improve services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

How will we know things are different?

What will be different for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers and carers?

  • Both your clinical and social and emotional wellbeing needs, and the needs of your community, will be addressed when care is planned and delivered.
  • Your care will be coordinated, and you will be supported to navigate the health system.
  • You will receive culturally appropriate care.
  • Services will actively follow up with you if you are at a higher risk of suicide, including after a suicide attempt.
  • If you are at risk of suicide, you will have timely access to support and be clear about which services in your area are responsible for providing you with care and support.

Press Release Continued

A key priority area is strengthening regional integration of mental health services to support more effective treatments for those in need.

In partnership with consumers and carers, Primary Health Networks and Local Hospital Networks will plan and design mental health services to meet specific local needs.

An implementation plan has been developed to guide and monitor implementation efforts of governments.

Improving the mental health system and outcomes for people with mental illness can only be done in partnership with the community, sector and all governments.

For people looking for mental health and suicide prevention support, I encourage them to visit the newly launched Head to Health website.

NACCHO Aboriginal Healthy Futures #closethegap #socialdeterminants @pmc_gov_au Debate : Where to from here?

 

” Federal Indigenous affairs bureaucrats have released a draft of their new evaluation framework, eight months after the Commonwealth committed $40 million over four years to evaluate policies in the portfolio and put a highly regarded university professor in the driving seat.

The draft sets out processes to look more objectively at national policies to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and contribute to Closing the Gap, which have been led by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for the past few years.”This is intended to align with the role of the Productivity Commission in overseeing the development and implementation of a whole of government evaluation strategy of policies and programs that effect Indigenous Australians,”

PM&C sets high standards for Indigenous affairs evaluation see PART 1 Below

 ”  It’s been widely known for fifty years that the health of Aboriginal people lags far behind that of other Australians. Despite that and the expenditure of billions of taxpayers’ dollars, serious gaps persist between Indigenous versus non-Indigenous health and wellbeing.

There is compelling evidence that social factors are potent determinants of the health of populations. In the simplest of terms these are (a) social disadvantage, and (b) the relationship of Indigenous Australians to mainstream society. Associated with these are basic issues already mentioned; these include education, housing standards, employment and socio-economic status. These must be addressed if health disadvantages are to be overcome. Until this happens the poor health outcomes of Indigenous Australians will persist.

It’s easy to identify medical problems, perhaps because they can be classified and measured. It is tempting then to decide that these problems are ‘medical’ and, therefore, should respond to ‘medical’ interventions or approaches in isolation. This is dangerously misleading.

It’s time for clinicians to realise and publicly acknowledge that most of the important issues which determine the health status of Indigenous people have ‘non-medical’ roots and need vigorous ‘non-medical’ approaches in order to be corrected.

 MICHAEL GRACEY. Aboriginal health: An embarrassing decades-long saga See Part 2 Below

Part 1

Around the same time as the new evaluation funding was announced, Malcolm Turnbull sought out indigenous health expert Ian Anderson to take over as deputy secretary leading the PM&C indigenous affairs group, which is also the only group within the central department overseen by an associate secretary, Andrew Tongue.

FROM The Mandarin

Anderson’s first major task was a review of the Closing the Gap target framework, which focuses attention on particular indicators of disadvantage. A few months into the job he set out some of his thoughts in a public speech at a special event marking 50 years since the referendum that effectively created this area of federal policy.

The framework notes good evaluation is “planned from the start, and provides feedback along the way” (referencing the audit office’s 2014 better practice guide to public sector governance).

“Good evaluation is systematic, defensible, credible and unbiased. It is respectful of diverse voices and world-views.

“Evaluation is distinct from but related to monitoring and performance reviews. Evaluation may use data gathered in monitoring as one source of evidence, while information obtained through monitoring and performance reviews may help inform evaluation priorities.”

The credibility of future evaluations depends on demonstrating their independence. To this end, the framework says a new external advisory committee, membership so far unknown, will “support transparency and ensure the conduct and prioritisation of evaluations is independent and impartial” by overseeing how the new framework is applied, checking the annual evaluation plan and with “ongoing advice, quality assurance and review”.

A “commitment to transparency” is also included. The committee will publish “all high priority evaluations” and reviews of them. Others will be randomly reviewed and summarised in an annual report.

“At the three year mark an independent meta-review of IAG evaluations will be undertaken to assess the extent to which the Framework has achieved its aims for greater capability, integration and use of robust evaluation evidence against the standards described under each of the best practice principles.”

All the actual evaluation reports will be published as well, at least in summary form, including “where ethical confidentiality concerns or commercial in confidence requirements” apply. Indigenous communities that have participated in evaluations will get to see the results too and additional “knowledge translation” efforts are proposed:

“Evaluation findings will be of interest to communities and service providers implementing programs as well as government decision-makers. Evaluation activities under the Framework will be designed to support service providers in gaining feedback about innovative approaches to program implementation and practical strategies for achieving positive outcomes across a range of community settings.”

The draft framework says it aims to:

  • generate high quality evidence that is used to inform decision making,
  • strengthen Indigenous leadership in evaluation,
  • build capability by fostering a collaborative culture of evaluative thinking and continuous learning across the IAG and more broadly across communities and organisations, and
  • place collaboration and ethical ways of doing high quality evaluation at the forefront of evaluation practice in order to inform decision making.

Higher quality evaluation that is “ethical, inclusive and focused on improving outcomes” is more likely to have impact, the draft points out. “It aims to pursue consistent standards of evaluation of Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS) programs but not impose a ‘one-size-fits-all’ model of evaluation.”

The guide calls for best-practice evaluation to be “integrated into the cycles of policy and community decision-making” in a way that is “collaborative, timely and culturally inclusive.”

“Our approach to evaluation, as outlined in this Framework, reflects a strong commitment to working with Indigenous Australians.

“Our collaborative efforts centre on recognising the strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and cultures.

“Fostering leadership and bringing the diverse perspectives of Indigenous Australians into evaluation processes helps ensure the relevance, credibility and usefulness of evaluation findings. In evaluation, this means we value the involvement of Indigenous Australian evaluators in conducting all forms of evaluation, particularly using participatory methods that grow our mutual understanding.”

Indigenous Advancement Strategy evaluations will look at how well programs meet three criteria:

Do they build on strengths to make a positive contribution to the lives of current and future generations of Indigenous Australians?

Are they designed and delivered in collaboration with Indigenous Australians, ensuring diverse voices are heard and respected?

Do they demonstrate cultural respect towards Indigenous Australians?

Four elements of good evaluation

The draft framework lists four elements of good evaluations — they are robust, relevant, credible and appropriate, which is to say they are “fit for purpose” and done in a timely fashion — and explains in detail how each of these ideals is to be achieved in Indigenous affairs through higher standards.

“Evaluation needs to be integrated into the feedback cycles of policy, program design and evidence-informed decision-making,” explains a chapter on relevance. “Evaluation feedback cycles can provide insights to service providers and communities to enhance the evidence available to support positive change. This can occur at many points in the cycle.”

While not being too prescriptive, the framework aims to set a high standard for the evidence that is used to judge the impact of programs.

“A range of evaluation methodologies can be used to undertake impact evaluation. Evaluations under the Framework will range in scope, scale, and in the kinds of questions they ask. Measuring long-term impact is challenging but important. We need to identify markers of progress that are linked by evidence to the desired outcomes.

“The transferability of evaluation findings are critical to ensure relevant and useful knowledge is generated under the Framework. High quality impact evaluations use appropriate methods and draw upon a range of data sources both qualitative and quantitative.

“Evaluation design should utilise methodologies that produce rigorous evidence and make full use of participatory methods. Use of participatory approaches to evaluation is one example of demonstrating the core values of the Framework in practice.”

Perhaps the moves to take a more academic approach at the federal level will allow for more open discussion of what works, in a portfolio where this year the minister has seen fit to publicly attack researchers in the field, and blast the independent audit office for doing its job instead of helping him attack the opposition.

Part 2 :  Aboriginal health: An embarrassing decades-long saga

October 2017

It’s been widely known for fifty years that the health of Aboriginal people lags far behind that of other Australians. Despite that and the expenditure of billions of taxpayers’ dollars, serious gaps persist between Indigenous versus non-Indigenous health and wellbeing.

Recognition of an Aboriginal Health Problem

When these inequities were recognised in the 1960s the very high rates of Aboriginal childhood malnutrition and infections and high death rates of infants and young children brought home the unpalatable fact that Australia had a so-called ‘Third World’ health problem. This is a feature of poverty-stricken nations. This was clearly unacceptable in our otherwise affluent and healthy country. There was a public outcry which stirred the federal government into attempts to remedy this embarrassing state of affairs.

In 1979 the Commonwealth Parliamentary Committee on Aboriginal Affairs found that . . .

‘the appalling state of Aboriginal health’ . . . ‘can be largely attributed to the unsatisfactory environmental conditions in which Aboriginals live, to their low socio-economic status in the Australian community, and to the failure of health authorities to give sufficient attention to the special needs of Aboriginals and to take proper account of their social and cultural beliefs and practices’ . . .

The Committee criticised governments for their lack of recognition of these factors and commented on the need for Aboriginal people to be much more closely involved in all stages of planning and delivering their own health care. Notwithstanding some improvements in Indigenous health which occurred over the almost forty years that followed, many of that Committee’s findings and criticisms are still valid.

Efforts to Improve Indigenous Health

In 1981 a $50 million Aboriginal Health Improvement Program was launched with the aim of upgrading environmental health standards, such as better housing and community and family hygiene conditions. Government funds were allocated and State and Territory health departments implemented strategies and programs and deployed clinical and allied staff in order to achieve better Indigenous health.

An important objective was to provide more accessible services for Indigenous people. Some positive health gains followed; for example, better pregnancy outcomes, fewer maternal deaths, fewer infant and young child infections, suppression of vaccine-preventable illnesses through immunisation, and lower infant death rates.

This should have helped Indigenous youngsters to negotiate the rough ride through early life that would otherwise have been their lot. However, health and disease statistics for Indigenous Australians generally stayed well behind those of other citizens in the years that followed.

Strategies to ‘Close the Gap’

The persisting poor standards of Indigenous health prompted the Federal Government in 2008 to ‘Close the Gap’ for Indigenous Australians in a range of health outcomes and other facets of life and wellbeing so that they and other Australians would have ‘equal life chances’. The then Prime Minister Rudd anticipated within a decade halving the widening gap in literacy, numeracy and employment opportunities for Indigenous people. The Statement of Intent also anticipated better opportunities for Indigenous children so that within a decade . . . “the appalling gap in infant mortality rates between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children would be halved and, within a generation, the equally appalling 17-year life gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous when it comes to overall life expectancy” . . .  would be gone.

These aspirations seemed commendable and were well received by the public. However, their feasibility was questioned soon after they were announced. The target of closing the gap in life expectancy was said to be “probably unattainable” and the capacity to extinguish the risk of chronic diseases (like heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease) and related deaths was considered publicly by a renowned medical expert to be “implausible” in the 22-year timetable set out by the government. This is pertinent because those chronic diseases are the main contributor to the discrepancy in Indigenous versus non-Indigenous deaths. Those reservations were well founded.

Obstructions to Closing the Gap

Indigenous Australians now have very high rates of chronic diseases, as already mentioned. These are aggravated by smoking- and drug-related disorders. These conditions are long-term and have permanent complications, such as visual loss or blindness, or severe limitations on mobility. These cannot be reversed and, therefore, restrict prospects for longevity. In many Aboriginal communities a third or half of adults 35 years or over have one or more of these problems. Nationally, these diseases and accidental or intentional injuries, including suicide and homicide, are several times more prevalent in Indigenous Australians than in the total Australian population.

This well-documented and widespread heavy burden of illnesses, disabilities and related excess premature deaths among Indigenous Australians makes it virtually impossible to remove, within a generation, the inequalities between this pattern and the better outcomes which prevail in the rest of the population. This is made more difficult because some of these problems are trans-generational and can have their origins during intra-uterine development.

There are practical impediments in bringing better health to the Indigenous population. Inadequate access and maldistribution of facilities, personnel and services can be serious drawbacks, particularly in rural and remote areas. Of course, improving access to services does not necessarily lead to their appropriate utilisation.

And compliance with treatments and follow-up supervision and medications can be problematic. Similarly, altering health knowledge and modifying risky personal lifestyles are difficult among many people whether they are Indigenous or not. There have also been serious problems with management and governance of clinical services for Indigenous people whether they are Indigenous-specific or mainstream services.

This has tended to weaken their impact on health service delivery and waste limited financial and other resources. Collectively, all of these factors have diluted the much-needed positive outcomes of efforts to close the gaps in Aboriginal health standards and statistics.

Indigenous Health: the current situation

Some indicators of the current situation are revealing: death rates of Indigenous children under five years are more than double the national rates; their low birth weight rate is about double the overall national rate; hospitalisation rates are almost three times the national rates; hospital admission rates for potentially preventable conditions are almost four times higher; deaths from complications of diabetes at 35 to 55 years are approximately twenty times higher; and dementia rates are about five time higher than in non-Indigenous Australians and the  condition starts earlier in life. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimated that among Indigenous Australians born from 2010 to 2012 life expectancy would be about nine to ten years shorter than for other Australians. These indicators of health status, illness patterns and life expectancy are disgraceful and require urgent attention.

Where to from here?

 The targets set to be met by the Close the Gap Strategy are reported publicly each year. Regrettably, the goals are falling short in many of the government’s nominated areas. These include several of the health-related areas which have been mentioned.
Tellingly, the targets are not being met in many other facets of Indigenous life which have significant impacts on physical, emotional and mental health and wellbeing.

These include, for example, early childhood schooling rates, closing the gaps in literacy and numeracy for older Indigenous schoolchildren, achieving equity in employment rates and the economic benefits which should follow, having Indigenous people housed in adequate and hygienic living conditions, and being more engaged with the wider Australian community in various day-to-day activities. These failures have been publicly acknowledged by successive Prime Ministers including Abbott and Turnbull.
In the health arena itself there is a need for closer cooperation and collaboration between the three main sectors which provide curative and health promotion activities for Indigenous people. These sectors are: (a) mainstream services provided by governments; (b) Indigenous-specific services from Aboriginal or Indigenous Health or Medical Services; and (c) privately funded clinical and allied services. There is often overlapping of these sectors and, sometimes, issues of territoriality which detract from their effectiveness and, potentially, add to the financial costs involved.
As mentioned by that Parliamentary Committee as far back as 1979, there is a pressing need for more Indigenous involvement and responsibility for decision-making and delivery of their own health services. Although this is improving slowly, there is a long way to go before those people who need the services have the power to help control their own future health. This is particularly so in remote areas where local communities and their committees are often sidelined from this important function.

Social Dimensions which affect Health

There is compelling evidence that social factors are potent determinants of the health of populations.

In the simplest of terms these are (a) social disadvantage, and (b) the relationship of Indigenous Australians to mainstream society. Associated with these are basic issues already mentioned; these include education, housing standards, employment and socio-economic status.

These must be addressed if health disadvantages are to be overcome. Until this happens the poor health outcomes of Indigenous Australians will persist.

It’s easy to identify medical problems, perhaps because they can be classified and measured. It is tempting then to decide that these problems are ‘medical’ and, therefore, should respond to ‘medical’ interventions or approaches in isolation. This is dangerously misleading. It’s time for clinicians to realise and publicly acknowledge that most of the important issues which determine the health status of Indigenous people have ‘non-medical’ roots and need vigorous ‘non-medical’ approaches in order to be corrected. This means, of course, that non-medical sectors of governments must accept more responsibility and become more actively involved in issues which ultimately determine the health of populations which they are expected to serve. This will require a major shift in thinking within Federal and State governments and bureaucracies and wider acceptance among the Australian community.

The challenges are daunting but the need is urgent. Surely it is within our collective capabilities to turn around this sad and long-standing saga into a success story.

Michael Gracey AO is a paediatrician who has worked with Indigenous children, their families and communities for more than forty years. He was Australia’s first Professor of Aboriginal Health and for many years was Principal Medical Adviser on Aboriginal Health to the Western Australian Department of Health. He is a former President of the International Paediatric Association.

Aboriginal Maternity Health Program : #CATSINaM17 @IUIH_ Million-dollar boost for groundbreaking #Indigenous maternity program

“It is informed by Indigenous knowledge and community control with a redesigned health service to provide 24/7 continuity of midwifery care and birthing in an Indigenous birth centre,

“With Indigenous leadership and a team with expertise in Indigenous health and research we can translate what we know works in other settings, and other countries, into practice here in Australia.”

Institute for Urban Indigenous Health CEO Adrian Carson said a key component of the project was the Indigenous control and governance of services.

A maternity program designed to achieve better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their babies has received a $1.1 million grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

The project, led by The University of Queensland’s Professor Sue Kildea and researchers from the University of Sydney and the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health, will implement Birthing on Country on a number of sites with a view to an Australia-wide roll out.

The NHMRC grant will help determine the sustainability of a Birthing on Country service model in each community, along with the impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, their communities and health services.

“The Birthing On Country program has a strong emphasis on culturally and clinically safe care, strengthened support for families, growing a culturally capable workforce and the Indigenous maternal and infant workforce,” Professor Kildea said.

“This program focuses on the year before and the year after birth, as the most important time in life.

“It also allows us to review the effect on three of the most costly health outcomes across the lifespan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples: preterm birth, low birth weight and hospital admissions in the first year of life.”

Professor Kildea said the project team was calling on all Australian governments and health organisations to work with them to implement Birthing On Country programs.

“After two decades of research, including consultation with Indigenous elders and communities, we can now enact State and Federal health policy and put into practice national and international evidence of the safety, benefits and cost-effectiveness of culturally safe care,” she said.

“With Indigenous leadership and a team with a wealth of cross-disciplinary expertise in Indigenous and health services, we can translate what we know works in other settings and other countries into practice here in Australia.”

The project, entitled ‘Building on Our Strengths (BOOSt): Developing and Evaluating Birthing On Country Primary Maternity Units’, also includes the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS) Brisbane, the Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Welfare Aboriginal Corporation, the Australian College of Midwives, the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives, and the Rhodanthe Lipsett Indigenous Midwifery Charitable Fund.

The NHMRC grant builds on previous funding from the Ian Potter Foundation in Melbourne, the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health, ATSICHS Brisbane, the Mater Health Service, Queensland Health and an earlier NHMRC grant.

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health : Our ACCHO Members #Deadly good news stories #NT #NSW #QLD #WA #SA #VIC #TAS

 1. National : 2017 NACCHO Members’ Conference and AGM Registrations : Only 21 days to go

2.1 Congress Alice Springs Breast Cancer Awareness Month #Deadly Choices

2.2 CONGRESS IS NOW VACCINATING AGAINST THE MENINGOCOCCAL OUTBREAK

3. Vic : VACCHO, VAHS ,BADAC and Quit Victoria proud to partner with the Ballarat Carnival to provide a healthy and smoke free environment

4. NSW : Armajun Aboriginal Health Service Indigenous students at Guyra Central School are looking good in new glasses.

5. WA : AHCWA : Mental Health Week has an Aboriginal focus for the first time 

6. QLD : Deadly Choices /Deadly Roos ambassador, Greg Inglis making healthy choices

7. SA : Major auction Art Fair to raise funds for dialysis centre in Ernabella SA.

8. TAS : FIAAI ‘No Smokes No Limits’ Public Health Campaign Launched

9. View hundreds of ACCHO Deadly Good News Stories over past 5 years

How to submit a NACCHO Affiliate  or Members Good News Story ? 

 Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media    

Mobile 0401 331 251

Wednesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Thursday

 1.1 National : 2017 NACCHO Members’ Conference and AGM Registrations : Only 21 days to go

On Tuesday 10 October there was only 21  days to go and due to high demand  the conference AGM is nearly booked out

This is an opportunity to show case grass roots best practice at the Aboriginal Community Controlled service delivery level.

In doing so honouring the theme of this year’s NACCHO Members’ Conference ‘Our Health Counts: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’.

NACCHO Conference Website

2.1 Congress Alice Springs Breast Cancer Awareness Month #Deadly Choices

October is breast cancer awareness month and provides an opportunity to focus on breast cancer and the impact the disease has on our mob.

Congress is offering the first 200 eligible* Aboriginal women that have a women’s health check or cervical screen at any Congress Clinic, or a mammogram at Breast Screening NT an exclusive Deadly Choices Breast Cancer Shirt.

To find out if you’re eligible and to book an appointment, call (08) 89514 400 or your local Congress clinic today.*To be eligible you must an Aboriginal congress client and due for a mammogram, cervical or women’s health check during the promotion period. Pink ribbon shirts are strictly limited and will be substituted for available health check initiative deadly choices shirts when stock runs out.

2.2 CONGRESS IS NOW VACCINATING AGAINST THE MENINGOCOCCAL OUTBREAK

Congress encourages all Aboriginal people aged between 12 months and 19 years to attend your nearest Congress clinic to be vaccinated against meningococcal disease.

While meningococcal disease is rare, it can be life threatening.

No appointment is needed.

3. Vic : VACCHO, VAHS ,BADAC and Quit Victoria proud to partner with the Ballarat Carnival to provide a healthy and smoke free environment

“The Vic NAIDOC Committee and the Ballarat Carnival Committee are proud to announce that this year’s Carnival will be completely Smoke Free!

VACCHO, VAHS and Quit Victoria are proud to partner with the Carnival to provide a healthy and smoke free environment for the whole Community.

We believe in creating a space where everyone can breathe fresh air and celebrate coming together for such a brilliant event. Call the Aboriginal Quitline (13 QUIT – 13 78 48) for tips and support on how you can go smoke free too.

P.s. Look out for Deadly Dan, the No Smokes Man at the Carnival on Saturday. He’ll be stoked to hear the news!”

#vicnaidoc #alwaysproudball2017 #smokefree #smokefreezone #vaccho #vahs #quitvictoria #BADAC

Sponsors

On behalf of Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative and the Carnival Committee, we would like to say a HUGE thank you to the following or…ganisations for their generous support. Without you, the carnival would not be possible.

Victorian Naidoc
Wadawurrung – Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation
VicHealth
Ballarat Council
FedUni Aboriginal Education Centre
Victorian Aboriginal Health Service
Aboriginal Victoria
Department of Health & Human Services, Victoria
@victorian aboriginal justice agreement
Oxfam
Ballarat Koorie Engagement Action Group – KEAG
Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Inc
Woolworths
Central Highlands Water
AFL Victoria
AFL Goldfields
Netball Victoria
Quit Victoria
Pitcha Makin Fellas
AIME
Basketball Ballarat
Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club
The North Ballarat Sports Club
Hands On Health Australia
RMIT University
Victoria University, Melbourne Australia

We are really looking forward to delivering the 2017 carnival with you!

4. NSW : Armajun Aboriginal Health Service Indigenous students at Guyra Central School are looking good in new glasses.

Thanks to a visit from the Brien Holden Vision Institute eye clinic, Ethan Harris and Nioka Levy no longer need to sit at the front of the class.

From HERE

A number of students had their eyes examined by a visiting optometrist.

The eye doctor attended the school for eye checks in late August.

The clinic is part of Armajun Aboriginal Health Service.

It’s ran and organised by Aboriginal Education officer Alecia Blair and Guyra Central School health officer Nellie Blair.Some eye problems are more common in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people than they are with non-Indigenous people.

Read all NACCHO 44 Aboriginal Eye Health stories here

5. WA : AHCWA : Mental Health Week has an Aboriginal focus for the first time 

Aboriginal Health Council of WA chairwoman Michelle Nelson-Cox said it was an “absolute tragedy” that suicide was one of the leading causes of death among young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“The death of even one of our young people to suicide is not acceptable,” she said.

AHCWA believes there needs to be a greater focus on increasing and improving access to culturally appropriate and locally responsive suicide prevention programs for Aboriginal youth in WA.

WA Mental Health Week has an Aboriginal focus for the first time this year, with a complementary theme recognising the importance of country.

Indigenous Australians are twice as likely to take their own lives as non-indigenous Australians, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Causes of Death 2016 report released last month.

Suicide was the fifth-leading cause of death for indigenous Australians, compared to the 15th for non-indigenous Australians, with suicide deaths accounting for a greater proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths (5.5 per cent), compared to non-indigenous Australians (1.7 per cent).

In its 50th year, WA Mental Health Week has added a complementary Aboriginal theme to its main theme — “connect with country, community and you for strong social and emotional wellbeing”.

Goldfields elder Trevor Donaldson said he was especially concerned about the high rate of youth suicide among Aboriginal people.

He said he felt many of the services previously offered had done nothing to help.

“I think the government should be held accountable for every one of those deaths because they deliver so little, ” he said.

“Aboriginal youth have nothing here in the Goldfields. The system is failing our youth, education is failing our youth.

“And I feel frustrated because I know what is going to happen — there is going to be another tragedy and ministers from left, right and centre will be coming here to supposedly deal with it and nothing will change.”

Suicide was the second leading cause of death after transport accidents among the Goldfields’ 15-24-year-olds, according to a 2015 Goldfields Health Profile by the Planning and Evaluation Unit.

NACCHO Aboriginal #MentalHealthDay : Australia’s new digital #mentalhealth gateway now live

6. QLD : Deadly Choices /Deadly Roos ambassador, Greg Inglis making healthy choices

WATCH HERE

Hear what Deadly Roos ambassador, Greg Inglis has to say about the Deadly Roos and making healthy choices. #DeadlyChoices #DeadlyRoos #RISE Ken Wyatt

See NACCHO Background story

“Deadly Choices is what I like to call a ‘jewel in the crown’ of Indigenous health, achieving some stunning results since it kicked off in South East Queensland four years ago.

The Deadly Kangaroos is an expansion of this program, using the star power of the ambassadors and the excitement of this year’s World Cup to reach more even communities.

Our national rugby league stars need to be in peak physical condition to play at the top of their game and we appreciate the players’ support to start discussions with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about ways to improve their health “

Minister for Indigenous Health, Ken Wyatt AM, said legendary Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous players would become ambassadors for the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health’s Deadly Choices program, to extend its reach across Australia.

The launch in Canberra was attended by the NACCHO Chair Matthew Cooke (pictured on right )

Members of the elite Australian Kangaroos Rugby League 2017 World Cup squad will headline the expansion of a successful grassroots campaign to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

Deadly Choices is a community-based health lifestyle campaign launched in 2013.

There is particular focus on young people and the importance of exercise, education, school attendance, quitting smoking and regular preventive health checks.

Through media campaigns, sports carnivals and community events it has prompted:

    • Almost 19,000 annual health checkups in South East Queensland
    • Active patient numbers to triple to over 330,000
    • 1,155 smoke-free household pledges
    • More than 3,300 smoker interventions

“Experience shows that sport and sporting legends can help communities kick major goals in health awareness and foster real change,” the Minister said.

“I encourage everyone to support Australia in the World Cup in October, just as the Kangaroos are supporting better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and all Australians.”

The ambassadors will make appearances at game day events as the Australian team travels through the ACT, New South Wales, the Northern Territory and regional Queensland for the World Cup.

“Key ambassadors for the Deadly Kangaroos are Johnathan Thurston and Greg Inglis,” the Minister said. “Also, the best three players from the national men’s and women’s teams at the Arthur Beetson Deadly Choices Murri Rugby League carnival will also be chosen as community ambassadors to promote positive health messages.

“Merchandise, including a special Deadly Kangaroos World Cup jersey, has been produced as an incentive for people to have a health check.

“The messages will also be promoted through television, radio, social media and at coaching clinics and Aboriginal community controlled health services.”

The Australian Government is contributing $235,000 to help support the Deadly Kangaroos campaign

The Rugby League World Cup runs from 26 October – 2 December 2017.

7. SA : Major auction Art Fair to raise funds for dialysis centre in Ernabella SA.

The Purple Hose is hosting major auction Art Fair to raise funds for dialysis centre in Ernabella SA.

An increasing number of Anangu are forced to leave their homes and families for renal dialysis treatment. Purple House is holding this major auction to raise funds to secure a Pukatja Dialysis Centre in Ernabella, South Australia.

Works of art have been donated by artists from all of the seven art centres from the APY Art Centre Collective. Works available include paintings, ceramics, work on paper, wood carving, photography and printmaking. Don’t miss this opportunity to add to your collection while making a lasting difference to communities in the APY Lands.

Details

8. TAS : FIAAI ‘No Smokes No Limits’ Public Health Campaign Launched

Flinders Island Aboriginal Association’s Tackling Smoking Program has recently launched their latest ‘No Smokes No Limits’ public health campaign with billboards being revealed across Tasmania. These billboards feature motocross imagery and Aboriginal ambassadors Jay and Josh Woolley from WSM Freestyle.

As part of this campaign, smokers are encouraged to contact their local health service, general practice or the Quitline for assistance in giving up the habit. This campaign seeks to denormalise smoking, and is in stark contrast to some of the messaging typically associated with extreme sports that are often sponsored by energy drinks or other consumables associated with poor health outcomes.

FIAAI CEO Maxine Roughley said “This program especially targets young people who are our future and we are proud to be supporting such an important health issue.”

FIAAI will be looking to expand this campaign to buses and other mediums in the future, with billboards currently being found in several parts of the state including Hobart, Launceston, East Devonport, Burnie and others. FIAAI will also be presenting at the upcoming Oceania Tobacco Control Conference (October 17-19) regarding this campaign.

The FIAAI Tackling Smoking Team can be contacted on 6334 5721 for more information.

-ENDS

 

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health #NACCHOagm2017 21 days to go This weeks #jobalerts Inc @CAACongress @ahmrc @IUIH_

This weeks #Jobalerts

Please note  : Before completing a job application please check with the ACCHO or stakeholder that job is still available

1.Nhulundu Health Service : General Practitioner : Gladstone QLD

2.RVTS AMS Doctor Training stream opportunities Closes 15 October

3. TRACHOMA ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS MANAGER

 4. Katungul Aboriginal Corporation Community NSW  : Medical Practitioner 

5. Miwatj Health NT Tackling Indigenous Smoking Community Worker

6.Sunrise Health Service Aboriginal Corp : Katherine NT HR Manager

7-12 Congress ACCHO Alice Springs

13-14. AHMRC full-time Vacancies

15-25 Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service (Durri ACMS)

26-31 : Wurli-Wurlinjang Health NT 6 positions

26.Wurli-Wurlinjang Family Partnership Program (WWFPP) – Various Positions

27.Program Coordinator _ Strong Indigenous Families (FDV)

28.Strong Indigenous Families. Positions include: Counsellors/ Therapists, Case Managers & Community Engagement Support Officers (FDV)

29 .Mental Health Professionals

30.Registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner

31.General Practitioner

 32 – 42 JOBS AT IUIH Brisbane
43. AMSANT Darwin Financial Accountant
44-52 Danila Dilba Darwin 8 Great Job Opportunities

VIEW Hundreds of past Jobs on the NACCHO Jobalerts

 

Register or more INFO

How to submit a Indigenous Health #jobalert ? 

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholders

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health 

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

1.Nhulundu Health Service : General Practitioner : Gladstone QLD

 General Practitioner

(Full time positions based in Gladstone)

Nhulundu Wooribah Indigenous Health Organisation Inc. (“Nhulundu”) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service delivering an integrated, comprehensive primary health care service to the whole Gladstone community.

Services include; bulk billing GP services, chronic disease management program, diabetes education, health promotion programs, mums and bubs clinic, aged care and community support service functions.

The position is responsible for providing best practice comprehensive primary health care. Leadership in the safety and quality of clinical services delivered by the health team. Optimising uptake and income generation across the service through MBS billings

This is an exciting opportunity to join an enthusiastic and committed team and make a direct impact on improved health outcomes in the community.

  • Competitive Salary Package – including salary sacrifice
  • Well Balanced working environment – Hours = Monday – Friday 8.30 – 5.00pm

 

Key Requirements include

 

  • Qualified Medical Practitioner, holding unconditional current registration with the Medical Board of Australia
  • Eligible for unrestricted Medicare Provider Number
  • Vocational Registration preferred
  • Knowledge, understanding and sensitivity towards the social, economic and cultural factors affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s health; An ability to communicate and empathise with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

 

You will be supported by a team of dedicated clinic staff including Registered Nurses Aboriginal Health Workers, the Tackling Indigenous Smoking team, Dietician/Diabetes Educator, Medical Receptionist, Practice Manager and visiting Specialists and Allied Health providers

Enquiries and Applications (Resume) can be addressed to:

Karen Clifford – Business Service Manager:

By Email: jobs@nhulundu.com.au

By Phone: 0428 228 851

2.RVTS AMS Doctor Training stream opportunities Closes 15 October

Round 2 – 2018 applications close October 15

The RVTS AMS stream was established in 2014 and is designed to meet the specific needs of Doctors working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

AMS stream applicants are accepted from Doctors working in rural, regional and (even) urban Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services locations, with 10 AMS training positions available in 2018.  Applications for 2018 close on 15 October and so interested doctors have less than a week to finalise their applications.

Why train with RVTS?

  • Stay in your Aboriginal Medical Service for the duration of your training
  • A great combination of remote and face to face training and supervision
  • Personalised supervision and comprehensive support
  • High fellowship achievement rate (94%) for FACRRM or FRACGP or both!
  • RVTS registrars eligible for the A1 Medicare schedule
  • RVTS training is fully funded by the Australian Government

Interested Doctors are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply at www.rvts.org.au before 15 October 2017.

3. TRACHOMA ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS MANAGER

Job no: 0044056
Work type: Fixed Term
Location: Parkville

Indigenous Health Equity Unit
Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health
Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences

Salary: $99,199 – $107,370 p.a. plus 9.5% superannuation

The Trachoma Environmental Improvements Manager (TEIM) plays an important role to drive activities and provide focus on the “Environmental” element of the World Health Organisation SAFE strategy to eliminate trachoma. The position will: advocate for safe and functional washing facilities (bathrooms) and work to enhance coordination, collaboration and cooperation between key players at the State and Territory, regional and local levels in health including environmental health, housing, infrastructure and education in targeted regions and remote communities in the tri-state border region of NT, SA, and WA.

The Trachoma Environmental Improvements Manager will be based in Alice Springs and work closely with the Indigenous Eye Health (IEH) Trachoma Coordinator who is also based in Alice Springs.

The position requires travel by vehicle or plane to remote areas of NT, South Australia and Western Australia. Travel to Melbourne and other Australian destinations will also be required from time to time.

IEH strongly encourages applications from Indigenous Australians.

Close date: 22 Oct 2017

Position Description and Selection Criteria

Download File 0044056.pdf

For information to assist you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/search/info/selection-criteria

 4. Katungul Aboriginal Corporation Community NSW  : Medical Practitioner 

 

 

Katungul ACCMS is an Aboriginal Community controlled corporation providing community and health services to Aboriginal Australians located in the South Coast of NSW. Katungul has recently been recognised for its excellence in business in the Eurobodalla and Far South Coast NSW Business Awards.
The role will involve working with a multi disciplinary team of health workers and other staff to provide culturally attuned, integrated health and community services on the Far South Coast of New South Wales.
 
Applicants will ideally be fully accredited as General Practitioners with experience working in an Aboriginal Medical service. However other General Practitioners  who do not meet this criteria will be considered.
 
Remuneration and terms of employment will be negotiated with the successful candidate(s).
Enquries should be directed to Chris Heazlewood, Human Resources Manager on 02 44762155 or by email chrish@katungul.org.au

 Download Position description  

MEDICAL PRACTITIONER October 2017

5. Miwatj Health NT Tackling Indigenous Smoking Community Worker

Job No: MHAC19
Location: Ramingining
Employment Status: Part Time
No. of Vacancies: 2
Closing Date: 30 Dec 2020

Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation is the regional Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service in East Arnhem Land, providing comprehensive primary health care services for over 6,000 Indigenous residents of North East Arnhem and public health services for close to 10,000 people across the region.

Tackling Indigenous Smoking Community Worker .5

Are you reliable, self-motivated and hardworking? Do you want to make a difference to Indigenous health? You will work with individuals, clients, families and communities to help quit tobacco use. You will deliver and promote healthier life choices and encourage smoke free behaviour. You will report to the Coordinator TIS on progress and issues. You will need to maintain confidential client information, have the ability to speak and understand Yolngu Matha and have a good understanding of Yolngu kinship and traditional systems.

You must have a current NT Class C Drivers License and a current Ochre Card (or the ability to obtain one).

Click here for Job Description

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged to apply.

6.Sunrise Health Service Aboriginal Corp : Katherine NT HR Manager

Location: Katherine, NT

Reference: 89158

Link to job ad/ to apply: http://applynow.net.au/jobs/89158

Use your Human Resources management experience to enhance remote community health & wellbeing! Great work/life balance & benefits!

About the Organisation

 

Sunrise Health Service Aboriginal Corporation’s (Sunrise) (ICN 4170) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (an ACCHO). An ACCHO is a primary health care service initiated and operated by the local Aboriginal community to deliver holistic, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate health care to the community which controls it, through a locally elected Board of Management. Sunrise’s focus is to improve the health and wellbeing of the people in the Arnhem Land region east of Katherine in the Northern Territory. Sunrise operates nine clinics located across Arnhem Land.

Sunrise works closely with various organisations in the Northern Territory, including the Northern Territory Primary Health Network (NT PHN). NT PHN provides support services to health professionals and organisations across the Northern Territory including support and assistance to health professionals relocating to the NT.

Sunrise has achieved ISO 9001 certification, and accreditation by Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited.

About the Opportunity

Sunrise Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (ICN 4170) now has a full-time opportunity for an experienced HR Manager to join their dedicated, multidisciplinary team.

This is an influential ‘hands-on’ role that offers you the opportunity to advance your career as part of a respected organisation.

The position offers an attractive remuneration package $115,858 – $129,430 (negotiable with skills and experience), plus statutory superannuation. In addition, you will receive a range of benefits including:

  • 6 weeks leave per year
  • 2 weeks study leave
  • Salary sacrificing options

Additionally, working at Sunrise Health Service and living in the Katherine region has lifestyle benefits that are unique to the Northern Territory. With Australia’s most stunning landscapes on your doorstep and an incredible outdoor lifestyle on offer, the Northern Territory is the place to be to make the most of life’s adventures.

Interviews will be taking place immediately – Apply Now!

For more information and to apply, please visit http://applynow.net.au/jobs/89158

7-12 Congress ACCHO Alice Springs

Thank you for your interest in working with Congress!

CONGRESS HR Website

We have two types of applications for you to consider:

General Application

  • Submit an expression of interest for a position that may become available.
  • This should include a covering letter outlining your job interest(s), an up-to-date resume and three current employment referees.

Applying for a Current Vacancy

  • Applying for a specific advertised vacancy.
  • Before applying for any position general or current please read the section ‘Job App FAQ‘.

 CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST / PSYCHOLOGIST

Base Salary: $96,213- $119,223 (p.a)     …

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3755948| Closing Date: 15 Oct 2017

TRANSPORT OFFICER

Hourly Rate: $22.78 + 25% casual loading

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3696530| Closing Date: 01 Dec 2017

GENERAL PRACTITIONER – ALICE SPRINGS

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (Congress) has over 40 years’ experience providing comprehe …

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3677297| Closing Date: 30 Dec 2017

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST – EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS

Multiple Positions Available

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3683459

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST- CLIENT SERVICE ROLES

Client Service Officer     …

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3672944| Closing Date: 31 Dec 2017

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST- CLINICAL ROLES

Location: Alice Springs | Job ID: 3672893 | Closing Date: 31 Dec 2017

13-14. AHMRC full-time Vacancies

 

To receive a copy of the Recruitment Information Package for more information and the selection criteria, please contact HR via email or telephone. The selection criteria must be addressed for your application to be considered.

13.Research, Training and Workforce Development Manager

Located at Little Bay at the Aboriginal Health College.

For a position description please email hr@ahmrc.org.au

Applications close: Monday, 23 October 2017.

14.Government Policy and Partnership Manager

Located at our main office in Surry Hills

This is an Identified Position.

For a position description please email hr@ahmrc.org.au

Applications close: Monday, 23 October 2017.

For a confidential conversation please contact Human Resources on (02) 9212 4777 or email gagic@ahmrc.org.au

Pursuant to Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW), Australian Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification for this position and is identified as an essential pre-requisite for appointment to the role of Chief Executive Officer, under AH&MRC Constitutional Rules.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

All applicants must address the selection criteria to be considered for the above positions

15-25 : Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service (Durri ACMS)

The Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service (Durri ACMS) was established in 1976. The name Durri means “to grow in good health” and was bestowed upon the organisation by members of the local Aboriginal community.

Located in Kempsey, approximately half way between the cities of Brisbane and Sydney. Durri is on the traditional land of the Dunghutti peo

Durri’s vision is to achieve and maintain better health and wellbeing outcomes for our Aboriginal people and communities.

Durri aims to be an employer of choice in Aboriginal health, supporting a skilled and flexible workforce.

Durri is a great place to work – a family friendly and culturally sensitive work environment that values people.

If you have a passion for indigenous health and are committed to closing the gap, then why not join us?

Website LINK

 Application package Child & Family Nurse – Nambucca Application package Child & Family Nurse – Nambucca.pdf
Size : 180.534 Kb
Type : pdf
Application package AHW - Bowraville.pdf Application package AHW – Bowraville.pdf
Size : 180.922 Kb
Type : pdf

Added Oct 4

Application Package AHW – Drug Alcohol – Kempsey

26-31  : Wurli-Wurlinjang Health NT 6 positions

If you are considering applying for a position with us, we encourage you in the first instance to review the position profile of the vacancy you are interested in. This will assist you in understanding the role you are interested in and will provide details in relation to the position responsibilities and other criteria applicants should consider addressing in their application.

All applications must contain the following as a minimum:

  • completed employment application form
  • current resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
  • a cover letter which provides a clear and concise overview of your ability to meet the requirements of the role.
  • a minimum of two referees (names, positions and telephone contact number) preferably one current and one past supervisor

Note: Applications who are successful must have the ability to satisfactorily complete a Criminal History Check and obtain a Working with Children Card.

Applications may be forwarded using our online Employment Application Form OR by emailing the Human Resources team at hr@nullwurli.org.au

View all details of these Wurli current vacancies HERE

26.Wurli-Wurlinjang Family Partnership Program (WWFPP) – Various Positions

27.Program Coordinator _ Strong Indigenous Families (FDV)

28.Strong Indigenous Families. Positions include: Counsellors/ Therapists, Case Managers & Community Engagement Support Officers (FDV)

29.Mental Health Professionals

30.Registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner

31.General Practitioner

 

32 – 42 JOBS AT IUIH Brisbane

 

IUIH and its members are constantly looking for healthcare workers, GP’s, allied health professionals, medical and health related students to fill short or long term vacancies within their growing operations.Current job opportunities are listed below:

 

Website HERE

43. AMSANT Darwin Financial Accountant

 

About the Position
AMSANT is seeking a competent and motivated Accountant for our finance team with good interpersonal and organisational skills and a passion for contributing to improvements in Aboriginal health in the NT. The successful candidate will preferably hold a degree in Accounting with a minimum of two years’ experience. Duties will consist of processing the AMSANT fortnightly payroll for 45 staff, processing monthly and annual accruals, reconciling and lodgement of ATO requirements, maintaining asset register, managing AMSANT funding compliance register and other finance duties and ad hoc reporting. Experience with Payroll and MYOB is highly desirable.

Contract Type & Salary
This is a full time role with salary between $80,559 and $85,465 based on the successful applicant’s experience and qualifications. Generous salary packaging is also available.

Location
Darwin

How to apply
Please download the Job Description and Selection Criteria above.
Your application should address the selection criteria and include a CV, cover letter and two referee’s details. Email applications to hr@amsant.org.au

Application closing date
15th October 2017

For further information about the role
Contact Paul Stephson or Human Resources on 08 8944 6666/ hr@amsant.org.au

We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for all positions that become available at AMSANT.

 Website

44-52 Danila Dilba Darwin 8 Great Job Opportunities

Some great career opportunties with us! Go to the vacancies section of our website for details www.daniladilba.org.au

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and #Smoking : @our_ANU Report : #Indigenous smoking deaths on the rise despite people butting out

“We have seen significant declines in smoking among Indigenous Australian adults over the past two decades that will bring major health benefits over time,

But we’re seeing tobacco’s lethal legacy from when smoking prevalence was at its peak.

We need a continued comprehensive approach to tobacco control, and the incorporation of Indigenous leadership, long-term investment and the provision of culturally appropriate materials and activities is critical to further reducing smoking,”

Dr Ray Lovett from the ANU Research School of Population Health.

Please note Dr Lovett will be speaking at the NACCHO Conference 31 Oct -2 Nov

Topic: Mayi Kuwayu: a national study of culture and wellbeing among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Speaker: Dr Ray Lovett See NACCHO Conference Website

Smoking-related deaths among Indigenous Australians are likely to continue to rise and peak over the next decade despite big reductions in smoking over the past 20 years, a new study led by The Australian National University (ANU) has found.

Cigarette smoking is a leading contributor to the burden of morbidity and mortality among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter respectfully referred to as Indigenous) Australians1, the total Australian population2, and in developed countries worldwide.3

The health impacts of smoking vary by smoking duration and intensity, but it is well established that smoking causes a range of health conditions.3 Although there have been marked smoking reductions in Australia4,5, the prevalence of smoking among Indigenous adults remains high, estimated at 41.4%, compared with 14.5% in the total Australian adult population.5

Smoking behaviour is influenced by factors including social, cultural and environmental factors, and tobacco control effectiveness.6 Indigenous tobacco use is also tightly tied to Australia’s history of colonisation; for example, tobacco was often used as a form of payment, and was issued as part of rations on mission stations.7

Dramatic decreases in smoking prevalence in the total Australian population suggest that the smoking epidemic is in its final stages.3,6 However, the stage of the tobacco epidemic among the Indigenous Australian population is less clear.

Understanding the stage of the epidemic provides insight into probable trends in smoking-attributable mortality, thereby enabling accurate communication of the likely impacts of smoking4, and informing relevant programs and policies.

This paper provides a perspective on the current stage of the smoking epidemic among Indigenous Australians based on an existing model of smoking epidemic stages3, and describes the expected short- and long-term implications for the wellbeing of the Indigenous population, and for programs and policies.

Stages of the smoking epidemic

Lopez proposed a four-stage model of cigarette consumption and mortality in 1994, characterising features of the smoking epidemic3; the model was updated in 2012.4 The proportion of the adult population that regularly smokes – and variation by characteristics such as age and sex – provides an indication of the extent to which smoking has been adopted.3 Smoking-attributable mortality, which can be crudely approximated by lung cancer deaths, provides insight into the health consequences of smoking at each stage of the epidemic.3,4 Central to the model is the long delay between smoking and its associated cancer mortality; even when the prevalence of smoking begins to decline, smoking-attributed mortality continues to increase, reflecting the smoking behaviours of up to three decades earlier.3,4

In short, Stage 1 of the tobacco epidemic marks the initial population uptake of smoking, with no evidence of smoking-attributable mortality. In Stage 2, the prevalence of smoking increases rapidly to its peak, alongside low but increasing smoking-attributable mortality. By Stage 3, awareness of the health hazards of smoking is common, and conditions are favourable for implementing tobacco control measures; while the prevalence of smoking remains stable or begins to decrease, smoking-attributable mortality rises rapidly. Stage 4 is represented by decreasing smoking prevalence and associated mortality to their lower limits, in a context of widespread awareness of tobacco harms and tobacco control measures

This research paper is published in the Public Health Research & Practice journal 

VIEW HERE

Read over 114 NACCHO Smoking articles published over 5 years

Lead researcher Dr Ray Lovett said the study found the lag between smoking and the onset of smoking-related diseases such as lung cancer means the number of smoking deaths was likely to keep climbing.

“On the positive side, we’ve seen a 43 per cent reduction in cardiovascular disease deaths, mainly from heart attacks, over the past 20 years among Indigenous people, in large part due to people quitting smoking.”

Smoking rates among Indigenous Australians have dropped from more than half the population in 1994 to two in five adults today. This is still two and a half times higher than the rest of the Australian population.

Dr Lovett said the substantial progress in reducing smoking rates, particularly in the past decade, was a clear sign that further reductions and improvements to Indigenous health could be achieved.

Co-researcher Dr Katie Thurber said the team analysed the available national health and death data from the past 20 years to conduct the study.

“The available data do not provide the full picture of smoking and its impacts for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, so it’s important to understand these limitations and work towards improving data in the future,” said Dr Thurber from the ANU Research School of Population Health.

“Despite these challenges, we’ve managed to produce the first comprehensive assessment of the tobacco epidemic among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.”

The research paper is published in the Public Health Research & Practice journal and this issue of the journal celebrates 50 years since the 1967 referendum, when Australians voted to amend the Constitution to allow the Commonwealth to create laws for Indigenous people and include them in the Census.