NACCHO Aboriginal Health #IHMayDay18 #ACCHO Deadly Good News stories : Features #WorldNoTobaccoDay events from #NSW @ReadyMob @Galambila #QLD @Apunipima #VIC @VAHS1972 #SA #WA #NT @DanilaDilba

1.1 National :The Northern Territory Government, a serial offender, has again received the Dirty Ashtray Award, for putting in the least effort to reduce smoking over the past 12 months.

1.2 RACGP and NACCHO presents Smoking podcast

2 .NSW : Galambila ACCHO – READY MOB Tackling Smoking and Healthy Lifestyles team host #IHMayday18

3.1 VACCHO Quit the smokes today 

3.VIC : VAHS Healthy Lifestyle Team launch new Deadly Dan movie and education package on World No Tobacco Day

4.QLD : Apunipima ACCHO Cape York launches 3 great videos on World No Tobacco Day

 

5.WA : Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya ACCHO , offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke.

6 .SA : Zena Wingfield is the Tackling Indigenous Smoking Project Officer at Nunyara Aboriginal Health Service

7.1 NT : Danila Dilba ACCHO Darwin launches community campaign

7.2 NT Congress Alice Springs World No Tobacco Day Event  

8. ACT : Deadly Choices World No Tobacco Day

Video From Congress Alice Springs

 

 View hundreds of ACCHO Deadly Good News Stories over past 6 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 /Friday

 

1.National : The Northern Territory Government, a serial offender, has again received the Dirty Ashtray Award, for putting in the least effort to reduce smoking over the past 12 months.

“Smoking kills. Smoking robs people, including young people, of their health.

“Governments must do more to help people to stop smoking, or to not take up the deadly habit in the first place.

“Strong government actions, including making packaging unappealing, keeping tobacco products out of view, and keeping tobacco prices high, have helped to encourage people to quit, or young people not to start.

“The Minister for Indigenous Health, Ken Wyatt, is to be commended for continuing funding of $183.7 million over four years for the Tackling Indigenous Smoking program.

Releasing the AMA/ACOSH National Tobacco Control Scoreboard 2018 on World No Tobacco Day, AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said it is the third year in a row that the NT has earned the dubious honour.

“The NT scored an E this year, and continues to fail miserably when it comes to protecting Territorians from the harms from smoking,” Dr Bartone said.

“This completes a ‘dirty dozen’ for the Territory – its 12th ‘win’ since the Award was first presented in 1994.

“The Queensland Government has won the Achievement Award for the second year in a row, but it still only scored a C – a C for complacency.”

Queensland was narrowly the best of the C-graders, scoring highest in the provision of smoke-free environments. It was just ahead of the Australian Government for its appropriate, evidence-based decisions about liquid nicotine and e-cigarettes.

Dr Bartone said that all Australian governments must urgently step up their efforts to combat smoking, including reintroducing education campaigns, and banning shop assistants and employees under the age of 18 from selling tobacco products.

“While Australia has made remarkable progress in tackling tobacco, we are in danger of losing momentum in the face of constant efforts by the tobacco industry to promote smoking,” Dr Bartone said.

“Tobacco is unique among consumer products in that it causes disease and premature death when it is used exactly as intended. Two out of three smokers will die from their habit.

“We know that public education and awareness campaigns can have a powerful effect on people’s decisions, yet there has been no national media campaign on tobacco since 2012.

“It is especially disappointing that, yet again, the latest Federal Budget provides no new funding, despite expecting to raise more than $11 billion a year from tobacco taxes.

“It is important that we stay vigilant against any attempts to normalise smoking, or make it appealing to young people.

Above : Katherine West Health Board NT

“This includes regulating e-cigarettes in exactly the same manner as tobacco cigarettes, and not allowing them to be marketed as quit smoking aids until such time as there is scientific evidence that they work as cessation aids, and do not cause further harm

“But no one government is excelling.

“Tobacco control is still a public health priority, here and around the world.

“Australia has to reclaim its reputation as the world leader in tobacco control.”

The AMA/ACOSH National Tobacco Control Scoreboard is compiled annually to mark World No Tobacco Day on 31 May.

Judges from the Australian Council on Smoking and Health (ACOSH) allocate points to the State, Territory, and Commonwealth Governments in various categories, including legislation, to track how effective each has been at combating smoking in the previous 12 months.

The judges called on all jurisdictions to allocate consistent funding for strong media campaigns, and to ban all remaining forms of tobacco marketing and promotion.

They also called on all States and Territories to strengthen controls on the sale of tobacco by banning employees under 18 from selling tobacco products.

1.2 RACGP and NACCHO presents Smoking podcast

‘Do you smoke?’ A simple preventive activity for clinicians to engage with every patient. Listen to Episode one:

Smoking & Smoking Cessation with Prof David Thomas on The National Guide Podcast

2 .NSW : READY MOB ACCHO’s Tackling Smoking and Healthy Lifestyles team host #IHMayday18

Kristy Pursch and David ReidStepping into a smoke free future

Pursch and Reid are members of the READY MOB Tackling Smoking and Healthy Lifestyles team, and are passionate about raising the awareness of the health impacts of tobacco smoking and chronic disease in Aboriginal communities and promoting positive lifestyle changes.

 

READY MOB is: Really Evaluate And Decide Yourself Make Ourselves Better.

We couldn’t do what we do without great relationships and collaboration. Working together for community

The name also signifies that the team is READY to work with the community to promote healthy lifestyles. They are based at the Galambila Aboriginal Health Service on the mid north coast of NSW.

Follow – @KristyPursch

 

2.2 NSW  : Tamworth says no to smokes

How young minds are getting blown away from  smokes

http://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/5440414/how-young-minds-are-getting-blown-away-from-smokes/?cs=159 via @The_NDL

3.1 VACCHO Quit the smokes today 

Quit the smokes today on to improve your health and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Contact your local ACCO or the Aboriginal Quitline today for support

 

3.VIC : VAHS Healthy Lifestyle Team launch new Deadly Dan movie and education package on World No Tobacco Day

 WATCH HERE

 

The VAHS Healthy Lifestyle Team and Darebin City Council launched the Deadly Dan Education Suite to teachers within the Darebin area. The new resource will include the book, our new film and 2 lesson plans with heaps of resources!

Thank you to Darebin Mayor Kim Le Cerf for attending and supporting this resource!

We’re excited to continue spreading Deadly Dan’s healthy lifestyle messages to early years and primary schools across Darebin.

If you couldn’t make it to the education launch or want more info about Deadly Dan’s education suite pleas contact Lena at 9403 3300 or message

4.QLD : Apunipima ACCHO Cape York launches 3 great videos on World No Tobacco Day

Today is #WNTD #WorldNoTobaccoDay is a day to raise awareness about the devastating health effects that tobacco use and exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke has on an individual, their family and the community

The Team in Coen

This we have launched 3 more of our campaign videos, we are showcasing some locals in Hope Vale’s real stories. Check out why Desmond stopped smoking

WATCH HERE

“My brother had emphysema, he would be still here if he didn’t smoke.” Lex from Hope Vale.

View Lex’s inspiring video here

Watch Here

Giving up is not as hard as what everyone predicted it to be” What’s your story Cape York?

Don’t make smokes your story!

5.WA : Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya ACCHO , offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke.

Are you aware of the dangers of passive smoking?

Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya, offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke.
If you need help quitting smoking, give us a call on 08 9172 0444#WMHSAC #BeAtYourBest #WirrakaMaya


VIEW HERE

6 .SA : Zena Wingfield is the Tackling Indigenous Smoking Project Officer at Nunyara Aboriginal Health Service

chatting on Community Soapbox today about , next Wednesday, 31st May.

Listen up: 

7.NT : Danila Dilba ACCHO Darwin launches community campaign\

Thanks to Larrakia TV (Aboriginal TV) for sharing this video showing Danila Dilba’s Tackling Indigenous Smoking team out and about promoting World No Tobacco day all this week in the community.

Great work by our team in spreading the message about the dangers of smoking.

Watch Here

 

7.2 NT Congress Alice Springs World No Tobacco Day Event  

 

 

8. ACT : Deadly Choices World No Tobacco Day

Did you know that pack-a-day smoking can cost more than just your health? Give it up for a year, and you could save $10,000!

Contact our clinics to have a yarn about quitting the smokes

8. Tasmania Aboriginal Centre not available at publication date

 

 

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and @RuralDoctorsAus #Remote #NRW2018 #IHMayDay18 #ACCHO Job Opportunities Inc #NT @MiwatjHealth @CAACongress #QLD @QAIHC_QLD @ATSICHSBris @IUIH_ @Apunipima @NATSIHWA #Aboriginal Health Workers @IAHA_National Allied Health @CATSINaM #Nursing

This weeks #NRW2018 #IHMayDay18 #Jobalerts

All jobs a listed Part 2 below

 

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

 

Rural doctors and other rural health professionals have always been concerned about the health and welfare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

With two thirds of all Indigenous Australians living in rural or remote areas, we are often on the frontline of Indigenous healthcare provision.

Because of this, we are acutely aware of the inequities suffered by Indigenous Australians and their communities in terms of health outcomes, chronic disease and life expectancy.

We all have a role to play when it comes to Closing the Gap.”

The Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA )  has chosen National Reconciliation Week to launch its revised policy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, which puts forward actions that need to be taken by Australia’s governments and other stakeholders like RDAA to Close the Gap in Indigenous health outcomes.

RDAA President, Dr Adam Colza, said the policy “puts right at the centre” the need to recognise the fundamental importance of socio-economic, environmental and cultural factors in improving health outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Download NACCHO RDAA Revised Aboriginal Health Policy May 2018

RDAA Press Release : Reconciliation — “at the heart” of Closing the Gap

The Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) says the crucial role of Australia’s journey towards reconciliation — in empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and improving their health outcomes — should not be underestimated.

“We know that additional, special efforts are still required to raise the health status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait\ Islander people to that of other Australians” he said.

“Crucially, these efforts will not just rely on improving health infrastructure or improving access to healthcare alone.

“They must also include recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia’s Constitution; recognition of Indigenous intergenerational trauma and the negative health effects that stem from it; and recognition of the importance of homeland, infrastructure, education, transport and employment on the health status of Indigenous Australians.

“These are not just throw-away lines — they are major determinants of health and well-being, and they must be factored into all strategies to better support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

“They are just as important to Closing the Gap as ensuring access to basic living conditions like clean and continuous water supply, good housing, functional sewerage systems, a reasonable diet and nutrition, and education.

“Other crucial factors that are key to improving health outcomes for Indigenous Australians include:

  • involvement, partnership and leadership from local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in determining the type of health services best suited to local needs and resources
  • support for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services
  • a culturally respectful and consultative approach to policy and program development on all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health issues
  • an ongoing commitment in the healthcare sector to improving cultural sensitivity and understanding, to ensure the health and hospital system does not deter Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from seeking care.

“And we all have a responsibility to recognise the trauma that multiple generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have been through — and why reconciliation is so important for all of us in moving forward.”

The theme of National Reconciliation Week is Don’t Keep History A Mystery: Learn. Share. Grow. All Australians are being encouraged to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, to share that knowledge and help Australia grow as a nation.

Visit http://www.reconciliation.org.au for more information on National Reconciliation Week and visit www.rdaa.com.au to read the RDAA policy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (see Resources and Policy Papers).

Rural Doctor job of the week

Gidgee Healing is currently seeking a General Practitioner to deliver integrated, comprehensive primary health care services at their Burke St Clinic in Mount Isa.

You will be supported by a team of dedicated clinic staff including Registered Nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers, Medical Receptionists, Practice Managers and visiting Specialists and Allied Health providers; in addition to community and secondary service providers.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

  • Qualified Medical Practitioner, holding unconditional current registration with AHPRA
  • Vocationally Registered, FRACGP or FACRRM
  • Eligible for unrestricted Medicare Provider Number
  • Knowledge, understanding and sensitivity towards the social, economic and cultural factors affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples health.

ABOUT US:

Gidgee Healing is a dynamic Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service that provides a comprehensive and growing range of primary health care services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people residing in the Mount Isa, North West and Lower Gulf of Carpentaria regions. Our services include General Practice, maternal and child health, social and preventative health, health promotion and education, allied health and specialist services. Gidgee Healing is also the lead agency for headspace Mount Isa and the Normanton Recovery and Community Wellbeing Service. The organisation strives to provide high quality health and wellbeing services in a culturally welcoming environment, to enhance the accessibility and uptake of health services by our clients and support the early identification and management of illness and chronic diseases.

THE LIFESTYLE:

The North West offers a relaxed and casual lifestyle, with a wealth of camping and exploring, scenic national parks, gorges, as well as pristine river, lake and open water fishing and recreation.

Applications close COB Friday 15th June, 2018

To apply online, please click on the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Lauren Taylor on (07) 4743 6681, quoting Ref No. 798746.

APPLY HERE

Jobs of the week 

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

Research and Evidence Manager

We seek a high calibre professional, to undertake a range of research projects in the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Sector.

* Indigenous Health Organisation

* Salary: $100,000 + superannuation

* Attractive health promotion charity salary packaging

* South Brisbane location

* This is an Indigenous – identified position.  Applicants must be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person (pursuant to Section 25 of the Queensland Anti-discrimination act 1991).

QAIHC is a non-partisan peak organisation representing 28 Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (AICCHOs) across Queensland at both state and national level. Our members deliver comprehensive and culturally appropriate, world class primary health care services to their communities.

We are seeking a high calibre professional for the newly created position of Research and Evidence Manager.

Role Overview

The Research and Evidence Manager will be responsible for managing the Research Division, consisting of the Health Information Team and Research Team (including funded programmes).  This includes undertaking a diverse range of research projects including the development of a research plan that will strengthen the capacity of QAIHC to develop innovative, culturally responsive and evidence informed programs and policy responses in high profile policy areas in the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Sector in Queensland.

Pre-requisite skills & experience

* Understanding of Indigenous Health.

* Demonstrated capability in conducting evaluation projects, including design, analysis and interpretation of data.

* Knowledge of ethics committees.

* High level quantitative and qualitative data analysis skills.

* Ability to conduct literature reviews to a high standard including search, collation and summarising skills.

* Understanding of the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled health organisations and the issues facing them.

* Ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and their leaders, respecting traditional culture, values and ways of doing business.

* Relevant tertiary qualifications and demonstrated experience in a similar role.

To apply, obtain an application pack or any query, please email – applications@qaihc.com.au.

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

Health Policy Manager

An exciting opportunity for a high calibre professional, to provide high quality policy advice in the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Sector.

  • Indigenous Health Organisation
  • Salary: $100,000 + superannuation
  • Attractive health promotion charity salary packaging
  • South Brisbane Location
  • This is an Indigenous – identified position.  Applicants must be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person (pursuant to Section 25 of the Queensland Anti-discrimination act 1991).

QAIHC is a non-partisan peak organisation representing 28 Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (AICCHOs) across Queensland at both state and national level. Our members deliver comprehensive and culturally appropriate, world class primary health care services to their communities.

We are seeking a high calibre professional for the newly created position of Health Policy Manager.

Role Overview

The Health Policy Manager, will provide leadership to a small team responsible for providing high quality policy advice on complex and high-profile policy areas in the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Sector in Queensland.

Pre-requisite skills & experience

  • Specific policy development knowledge.
  • Experience in developing state or national health policy.
  • Understanding of relevant state and federal government decision making process.
  • Understanding of the AICCHOs and the issues facing them.
  • Demonstrated experience of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and their leaders, respecting traditional culture, values and ways of doing business.
  • Relevant tertiary qualifications and demonstrated experience in a similar role.

To apply, obtain an application pack or any query, please email – applications@qaihc.com.au

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

Workforce Coordinator – Medicare Specialist

We are seeking a Medicare Specialist to support and train clinics in the Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Sector.

* Indigenous Health Organisation

* South Brisbane location

* Salary: $82,500 + superannuation

* Attractive health promotion charity salary packaging

QAIHC is a non-partisan peak organisation representing 28 Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (AICCHOs) across Queensland at both state and national level. Our members deliver comprehensive and culturally appropriate, world class primary health care services to their communities.

Role Overview

The Medicare Specialist will be responsible for supporting QAIHCs Member Services across Queensland in the management and use of electronic patient information and recall systems and in maximising access to health incentives, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and Medicare Benefits Schedule opportunities.

Pre-requisite skills & experience

* Well-developed knowledge, skills and experience in Medical claims and incentives programs is essential in this role, in particular:

o Medicare

o Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

o Practice Incentives Program

* Ability to build relationships and engage with a broad range of stakeholders, including relevant government departments, networks and specialist providers

* High level communication, collaboration and interpersonal skills

* Project management experience

* Understanding of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations and the issues facing them

* Ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and their leaders, respecting traditional culture, values and ways of doing business

* A certificate IV in Training and Assessment and knowledge of the VET sector is desirable

* A current drivers licence is required

* Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply for this position

To apply, obtain an application pack or any query, please email – mailto:applications@qaihc.com.au

Please apply only via this method.

Applications are required by midnight on Sunday 10th June 201

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

There are 5 JOBS AT Apunipima Cairns and Cape York

The links to  job vacancies are on website

Men’s Health Worker Social Emotional Wellbeing

3 x full time fixed term (FIFO from Cairns) positions
Servicing Kowanyama, Wujal Wujal and Mapoon Communities

With over 230 team members, Apunipima Cape York Health Council is one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal Community Controlled health services, delivering a broad spectrum of comprehensive primary health care services to 11 communities of Cape York.

We are currently seeking applications for three full time fixed term Men’s Health Workers, who will provide and coordinate a range of quality and culturally appropriate primary health care services, to Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander men over the age of 16 who are affected by alcohol and violence. The program aims to improve the safety and wellbeing of families and the broader communities to increase their sense of healing and personal wellbeing.

An attractive salary package is available for these positions dependent on qualifications and experience, including options for generous salary sacrifice, a great team environment, supportive networks and diverse duties, which make for an exciting opportunity.

Applications close 8 June

Under s25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991, there is a genuine occupational requirement for the incumbent to be Indigenous to the Aboriginal and/or Torres
Strait Islander Community

MAMU HEALTH SERVICE LIMITED

Mamu Health Service Limited is an Aboriginal community controlled health service providing comprehensive primary health care services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Ravenshoe and surrounding districts.  We are recruiting the following positions for our Ravenshoe Clinic:-

Aboriginal & or Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Practice Certificate III/IV Fixed Term. Applicant must have previous experience in similar role.

Traineeship – Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice) HLT30113 Certificate III – If you have a passion to work in the health industry we are offering a Traineeship in Certificate III ATSI Primary Health Care (Practice) fixed term (12- 14 months) (It is a genuine occupational requirement that the position be filled by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person as permitted by Section 25, 105 & 106 Queensland Anti-Discrimination (1991) Act.)

Registered Nurse – A Full time position is available. Applicants must have previous experience in working with the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. This is a Rural & Remote position which offers an attractive employment package including accommodation & fuel allowance.

All applicants must be willing to undertake an AFP Criminal History Check, and a Blue Card with Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian.

To apply for this vacancy, a full application package can be obtained from our website on http://www.mamuhsl.org.au, or please don’t hesitate to contact Julie Browne on 07 4061 9988 or jbrowne@mamuhsl.org.au to register your interest.

Please submit your resume and written responses addressing the Knowledge, Skills and Personal Attributes/Selection Criteria outlined in the Position Description to: The Chief Executive Officer Mamu Health Service Limited PO Box 1537 INNISFAIL Q 4860 Applications close at 5.00 pm on Friday 8th June 2018

Mamu Website

Ravenshoe Positions:

RAV-067 Trainee Health Worker_Position Description

RAV-066 ATSI Health Worker_3

RAV-060 Registered Nurse_Position Description3

Innisfail Positions:

IFL-267 Trainee Health Worker

IFL-264 ATSI Health Worker_2

IFL-263 ATSI Health Worker_2

IFL 269 Community Liason Officer_Female (002)

IFL-261 Sport Rec Officer_Position Description_110518 (003)

FOR ALL POSITIONS

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY 8th JUNE 2018 5.00PM

 

There are 3 JOBS AT IUIH Brisbane

+ Traineeship Coordinator (Ongoing Full Time position based at Windsor) + Clinical Optometrist (Full Time or Part Time position based at Windsor) + Social Health Care Coordinator – MATSICHS (Ongoing Full Time position located at Morayfield)

 There are 14 JOBS at ATSICHS Brisbane

As part of our commitment to providing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community of Brisbane with a comprehensive range of primary health care, youth, child safety, mental health, dental and aged care services, we employ approximately 150 people across our locations at Woolloongabba, Woodridge, Northgate, Acacia Ridge, Browns Plains, Eagleby and East Brisbane.

The roles at ATSICHS are diverse and include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Aboriginal Health Workers
  • Registered Nurses
  • Transport Drivers
  • Medical Receptionists
  • Administrative and Management roles
  • Medical professionals
  • Dentists and Dental Assistants
  • Allied Health Staff
  • Support Workers

Current vacancies

Jobs of the week 28 positions in the NT Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

There are 3 JOBS at Congress Alice Springs

More info and apply HERE

There are 21 JOBS at Miwatj Health Arnhem Land

More info and apply HERE

There are 5 JOBS at Wurli Katherine

More info and apply HERE

 

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

About the Organisation

The name Derbarl Yerrigan is the Wadjuk Noongar name for the Swan River. Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (DYHSAC) is an Aboriginal community controlled health organisation which was established in 1974 as the Perth Aboriginal Medical Service and later changed its name to DYHSAC in 1998

To view the full position description and selection criteria, please visit www.ahcwa.org.au/employment

To view and download the application pack, please visit www.ahcwa.org.au/employment

Durri servicing the Macleay and Nambucca Valleys – making a difference

 

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?

Please view our current vacancies .

We are currently hiring for 2 Senior Policy & Research Officers
The link to the role on Ethical Jobs is here:

ACCHO Member : Stakeholder PHN Murray

Position: Aboriginal Access Advisor Intern

Location : Bendigo

Closing Date : 24 June

More Info apply: http://www.murrayphn.org.au/aboriginal-internship

Job Ref : N2018 – 37

 

Academic Leader: Indigenous Health (Identified*) – 180357

School of Medicine

Closing Date: 02/07/2018

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and Justice #NRW2018 #IHMayDay18 : Queensland Attorney General @YvetteDAth launches #LawYarn a cutting edge health and justice resource at Wuchopperen ACCHO : A unique resource which supports good health outcomes


‘Legal problems with money, housing, court and families will lead to poor health if they are not resolved. Poor health impacts on your capacity to make good decisions and care for your children, for example resulting in engagement with the courts or child protection system.

‘It is no coincidence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders – among the most incarcerated people in the world – also have some of the poorest health outcomes in the world.’

Wuchopperen Chairperson, NACCHO Deputy Chairperson and LawRight lawyer Donnella Mills said health and legal needs are often interlinked.

“We know that legal problems with money, housing, families and crime can often lead to poor health outcomes for people if they are not resolved,” Mrs D’Ath said.

The State Government allocated $55,000 to not-for-profit community legal organisation LawRight to develop a legal ‘health check’ project to help identify the potential legal needs of Indigenous people

Law Yarn helps health practitioners yarn with members of the Indigenous community about their legal problems and connect them with legal help.”

At today’s launch in Cairns, Mrs D’Ath said Law Yarn was a free, innovative conversation starter to help Indigenous people identify their legal issues

See Ministers Press Release Part 2

 

Queensland Attorney General Yvette D’ath has launched the cutting edge health and justice resource ‘Law Yarn’ at Wuchopperen today.

Download the Law Yarn Edition

Lawright Yarn Edition 1

So… what is Law Yarn ?

Law Yarn is a unique resource which supports good health outcomes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Law Yarn helps health workers to yarn with members of remote and urban communities about their legal problems and connect them to legal help.

Legal problems with money, housing, crime and families will lead to poor health if they are not resolved.

Without Law Yarn the problems won’t be identified and will instead be ignored. This turns them into bigger problems

What are the key legal problems faced by the community

Law Yarn uses images of cyclones, mangroves, stars and journeys to help vulnerable communities recognise their legal problems in context and learn where to get help

Law Yarn, an initiative of community legal service LawRight, will see specially trained Wuchopperen health staff yarn with clients about legal issues which might be affecting them, and connect them to the free on-site legal services delivered by LawRight and Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service.

The health staff will use the highly visual, culturally appropriate Law Yarn tool to help clients feel at ease, and identify and discuss legal problems.

Wuchopperen staff are currently being trained to use the resource, with the program being rolled out in the second half of 2018.

Law Yarn will run until the end of June 2019 and will then be evaluated by distinguished legal academics Fiona Allison, Chris Cunneen and Melanie Schwartz.

Part 2: Law Yarn to help improve Indigenous health

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath has launched a legal ‘health check’ for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Cairns, as part of National Reconciliation Week.

Mrs D’Ath said Law Yarn would be trialled at Wuchopperen Health Service Limited, the Cairns-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical service where LawRight and the Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service (QIFVLS) operate weekly legal services.

“Health practitioners will be trained to help a person complete their Law Yarn,” she said.

“The resources use Indigenous symbols by artist Rikki Salam to represent the main legal problems – money, housing, family and crime – to help structure the yarn.

“A handy how-to guide includes conversation prompts and advice on how to capture the person’s family, financial, tenancy or criminal law legal needs as well as discussing and recording their progress.”

Mrs D’Ath said LawRight has worked with Wuchopperen and QIFVLS and consulted with the Health Justice Partnerships Network and Health Justice Australia to make this innovative project happen.

“The trial will undergo independent academic evaluation but other Australian legal and health services have already shown an interest in the resource,” she said.

 

 

 

 

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #NRW2018 News Alerts : 1. @RACGP The importance of culturally appropriate healthcare spaces 2. @AusHealthcare @Aus_Lighthouse Recognising the historic experience of #Indigenous patients is key to reconciliation

Patients have the right to respectful care that promotes their dignity, privacy and safety.

Equipped with greater cultural awareness and the ability to ensure cultural safety, GPs will provide better quality and more appropriate care to all of their patients.
 
It will also ensure they are well-rounded and more effective doctors.’

Associate Professor Peter O’Mara, Chair of RACGP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, believes GPs can make important contributions towards creating a safe and culturally welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

A/Prof Peter O’Mara, NACCHO Chair John Singer Minister Ken Wyatt & RACGP President Dr Bastian Seidel launch the National guide at Parliament house 28 March

He views National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) as an opportunity to improve the relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.

To mark National Reconciliation Week, Morgan Liotta from newsGP looks at the importance of cultural safety in general practice and highlights some useful resources for GPs and practice teams.

See Full RACGP Press Release Part 2 Below

The inequitable situation whereby Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are 30% less likely to receive appropriate care after a heart attack demands action.

 Working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and health organisations is the most effective tool for building cultural safety in our public hospitals, reducing discharge against medical advice and improving care pathways after discharge.

Understanding the true history of Australia allows non-Indigenous clinicians and health administrators to be aware of the background to our current situation, learn about their stereotypes, reflect on practices and build trust with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.’

Dr Chris Bourke, a Gamillaroi man and Director of Strategic Programs at the AHHA, said the five dimensions of reconciliation—race relations, equality and equity, institutional integrity, unity and historical acceptance—directly relate to the Lighthouse goal of achieving better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients who go to hospital after a heart attack.

Hospitals are developing stronger links with ACCHO’s / Aboriginal Medical Services; this means discharges are better planned, so patients are more likely to access follow up appointments, take ongoing medication and use cardiac rehabilitation services.

See Full Press Release Part 2 Below

Part 1 The RACGP The importance of culturally appropriate healthcare spaces

Given GPs are considered the first point of contact for most Australians when accessing healthcare, a culturally responsive general practice environment can play a significant part in improving that access, and can be crucial to closing the gap in health outcomes.

Ada Parry is a community representative on the RACGP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Board. She agrees that cultural awareness benefits all aspects of a healthcare relationship – from a patient’s greeting as they enter a practice to fostering an ongoing connection throughout the care.

‘A really simple step is to have a friendly face at reception. Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people go to mainstream health services and want to be treated like everyone else,’ Ms Parry told newsGP.

 

‘It is important to understand that some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients may have a different culture or cultural practices to non-Indigenous Australians.

‘If [healthcare professionals] don’t show that they care about those differences, this can really affect their patients.’

Ms Parry strongly believes that taking the time to get to know patients, to hear their story and help them understand their illness and treatments can make a big difference.

‘People need to get past stereotypes and stop making assumptions,’ she said.

‘The approaches that work for most of your patients may not always work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.

‘Treat patients the way you would like to be treated.’

Associate Professor O’Mara agrees, emphasising that the strength of culturally responsive care is not only for patients.

‘The role healthcare professionals, organisations, medical colleges and governments have in providing safe and appropriate spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients could not only benefit the patients, but also the healthcare providers themselves,’ he said.

NACCHO & will be running free half day workshops to support practice teams to maximise the opportunity for prevention of disease for Indigenous clients . For busy GPs, members , practice nurses or ACCHO practice managers

Details HERE

GP resources

The RACGP has a number of educational resources and standards that help to support the cultural needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples:

Part 2 AHHA Recognising the historic experience of Indigenous patients is key to reconciliation

Understanding the history behind why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients are five times more likely to leave hospital against medical advice is key to achieving reconciliation in the hospital system, the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) and the Heart Foundation said this week.

National Reconciliation Week is this week, and the theme ‘Don’t Keep History a Mystery’ highlights the importance of all Australians exploring our past, learning more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, and developing a deeper understanding of our national story.

Reitai Minogue, national manager for the Lighthouse Hospital Project, said, ‘Closing the heart health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians requires understanding why many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients have a distrust of hospitals.

‘Historic experiences such as racism, miscommunication and mistreatment have influenced the level of distrust, which is reflected in the fact that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients are five times more likely to leave hospital against medical advice.’

The Lighthouse Hospital Project, a federally funded joint program by the AHHA and the Heart Foundation, is working with 18 hospitals around the nation to transform the experience of healthcare for Indigenous patients by trying to make their environments more culturally safe.

Examples of positive changes include improving the hospital environment with local artwork, bush gardens and cultural spaces for family, and expanding and better supporting the Aboriginal workforce. Hospitals are developing stronger links with Aboriginal Medical Services; this means discharges are better planned, so patients are more likely to access follow up appointments, take ongoing medication and use cardiac rehabilitation services.

About the Lighthouse Hospitals Project

The Lighthouse Hospitals Project is a joint initiative of AHHA and the Heart Foundation. The $10 million third phase of the Lighthouse Hospitals Project is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health through the Indigenous Australians’ Health Program.

NSW: Coffs Harbour Health Campus, John Hunter Hospital, Liverpool Hospital, Orange Health Service and Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital.

NT: Royal Darwin Hospital.

Qld: Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Mount Isa Base Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Prince Charles Hospital and Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

SA: Flinders Medical Centre. Vic: Bairnsdale Regional Health Service.

WA: Broome Regional Health Campus, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Kalgoorlie Health Campus, Royal Perth Hospital and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health This Weeks Events #NRW2018 #TopEndFASD18 @Wuchopperen #LawYarn #WorldNoTobaccoDay #IHMayDAY18 @TheLongWalkOz #WeWalktogether #BecauseOfHerWeCan #NACCHOagm2018 , @NATSIHWA , @AIDAAustralia , @CATSINaM @hosw2018

May 27  – 3 June National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week Ad Campaign Hits Screens

A new ad campaign that questions how much the average Australian knows about the country’s history will hit screens today in the lead up to National Reconciliation Week.

The 30-second and 60-second ads show a non-Indigenous man enjoying a game of football, before he starts to address the audience.

View HERE

“Oh g’day, I’m just your average Australian. I’m just doing average Australian things like watching Australian football with my Australian Shepherd,” he says.

The man says he knows quite a bit about our country – including that we have the “tastiest coat of arms in the world” – before he is interrupted by an Aboriginal woman.

“There’s also a bit that you don’t know. We’ve got the longest surviving culture on earth,” the woman says.

“Just your average artists,” an Aboriginal man chimes in.

“Warriors,” another Aboriginal woman says.

“Inventors,” a third Aboriginal woman offers.

The ad campaign highlights some of the lesser known aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and achievements, to prompt Australians to ask themselves: what are some of the things I don’t know about our shared history?

Australians will be asked to ponder that question during this year’s National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June), which is themed Don’t Keep History a Mystery: Learn. Share. Grow.

Many Australians are unaware of, or reject, fundamental aspects of history, according to the Australian Reconciliation Barometer.

The biennial survey commissioned by Reconciliation Australia and conducted by Polity social research consultancy explores the perceptions of a representative sample of Australians in order to gauge progress towards reconciliation.

The most recent Barometer survey revealed that:

  •  Almost one in three Australians do not accept that government policy enabled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to be removed from their families without permission until the 1970s.
  •  More than one in three Australians do not accept that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were subject to mass killings, incarceration, forced removal from land and restricted movement, throughout the 1800s.

Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine said National Reconciliation Week would raise awareness of the fact that historical acceptance is key to reconciliation.

“It’s essential that we know each other, and that we share an understanding of the history that has shaped the relationship between wider Australia and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as it stands today,” she says.

“Only by acknowledging, accepting and addressing our shared history can we become a more just and equitable Australia.”

The National Reconciliation Week ads will be screened on SBS, NITV, Foxtel and ICTV, in cinemas nationally, on Qantas in-flight entertainment, and on big screens in Brisbane’s Queen St Mall and King St Mall, Melbourne’s Federation Square, and Sydney’s Pitt Street mall.

To find out how to get involved in National Reconciliation Week, visit reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week

May 28 Launch #LawYarn at Wuchopperen Cairns FNQ

 

 

May 30-31Top End Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Forum Darwin

APO NT is hosting a forum to raise awareness about FASD for Aboriginal communities in the Top End, share experiences and develop a top-end network

Follow on Twitter  #TopEndFASD18

Download the Full Program

NT TOP END FASD PROGRAM

May 31  Tom Calma World No Tobacco day

WorldNoTobaccoDay is coming up! But you don’t have to wait, start now: make every day a tobacco-free day

In the lead up to World No Tobacco Day, IAHA will host a live online webinar with Patron and National Coordinator Tackling Indigenous Smoking Professor Tom Calma to discuss the role of allied health in tackling Indigenous smoking.

To register follow this link –

31 May Reconciliation in the ACT : Are we there yet

DATE: Thursday 31 May 2018

TIME: 12.30pm – 1.30pm

VENUE: Function Room, Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre, 180 London Circuit, CANBERRA CITY

ABOUT: On 27 May 2018 the residents of Canberra will enjoy a public holiday, Reconciliation Day, to recognise and celebrate reconciliation in the ACT between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Aboriginal people.

This seminar will explore the extent to which genuine and sustainable progress has been made in achieving reconciliation in the ACT. Discussion will centre on a range of data, summarised below, which reflects the extent to which Aboriginal people in Canberra continue to experience disadvantage and of the adequacy of the local response to these matters, including the degree of self-determination accorded the Aboriginal community.

  • Native title has been completely extinguished in the ACT;
  • Canberra’s Indigenous students fall two years behind their non-Indigenous peers in educational outcomes;
  • Canberra’s Indigenous people are 21 times more likely to be incarcerated compared to non-Indigenous people, and the ACT has the second highest rate of Indigenous incarceration in Australia;
  •  An Aboriginal child in Canberra is 12 times more likely than a non-Aboriginal child to be removed, under a care and protection order, from its parents and the ACT has the second highest rate of removal of Aboriginal children in Australia;
  •  7.6% of Canberra’s Aboriginal community report that they live in housing in which they do not have access to working sewerage facilities;
  • 46% of Indigenous males and 39% of indigenous females in the ACT over the age of 15 used an illicit drug or other substance in the last year; and
  • 35% of Aboriginal children in Canberra live in poverty;

This IGPA seminar is co-sponsored by Winnunga Nimmityjah AHCS and is jointly convened by Professorial Fellow Jon Stanhope AO and Adjunct Professor Dr Khalid Ahmed PSM.

Download the Brochure and Speaker Bio’s HERE

RECONCILIATION IN THE ACT ARE WE THERE YET (003)

May 31 : This year’s theme ‘Stepping Out into Our Future’

 

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island peoples share their voice, aspirations, hopes, dreams, pathways, taking the steps further for our future.

IHMAYDAY WEBPAGE

June 2 The Long Walk

Come and join us on the 2nd of June down at Federation Square from 2:00pm – 5:30pm for The Long Walk 2018. As we embark on our 14th year since Michael Long began his walk towards Canberra we are as excited as ever to celebrate our event.
You will be entertained by some of Australia’s best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent including our MC Leila Gurruwiwi, crowd favourites The Indigenous Hip Hop Crew, enjoy some classics from Blackfire, Birdz, Soul Chic, Russell Robertson & Phil Cebrano and the Brolga Boys.
There will be a range of Sporting and Cultural activities as well as a delicious community BBQ.

Then “We Walk Together” with Michael Long for the annual Walk to “G” for the Dreamtime Game at 5:30pm sharp.

More Info Register

June 11 .New : Finding Common Ground and a Way Forward for Indigenous Recognition 

Written submissions should be received by Monday 11 June

Above NACCHO Library image

A new committee met yesterday, to further consider matters regarding recognition of Australia’s indigenous people, and will be co-chaired by Senator Patrick Dodson, Senator for Western Australia, and Mr Julian Leeser MP , Member for Berowra.

The Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition Relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples is expected to report by the end of November this year, with an interim report due in July.

The Committee is calling for submissions and is considering options for public meetings and hearings.

Co-Chairs Senator Dodson and Mr Leeser MP said: ‘As a committee, we are looking for common ground and ways forward on these critical matters for Australia’s future. We hope to hear from Australians about the next steps for recognition of First Nations peoples.

We plan to consult widely, starting with First Nations leadership. We understand that a great deal of work has already been done: the job of this committee is to build on that work and to now take the next steps.’

The Committee website has details of Committee membership, and will be the first point of information about the work of the Committee.

Written submissions should be received by Monday 11 June, to assist with planning meetings and hearings, but the Committee may accept submissions after this date.

For background:

Please contact the Committee secretariat on 02 6277 4129

or via email at jsccr@aph.gov.au

Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website.

WEBSITE

Click on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner and register

19 June 21 St Century Aboriginal Health Research

21st Century Aboriginal Health Research

The Aboriginal Health College is thrilled to be hosting a showcase of Aboriginal Health Research projects. This event is the first in a series of educational seminars promoting best practice in Aboriginal Health Research by exploring community engagement, Aboriginal Governance, evidence-based practice and how researchers achieved success working with community.

Please join us to hear from the SEARCH team at the Sax Institute, the POCHE Centre’s Adjunct Associate Professor Kylie Gwynne and University of Wollongong’s Professor Kathleen Clapham.

Bookings

Download HERE

October 30 2018 NACCHO Annual Members’ Conference and AGM SAVE A DATE

Follow our conference using HASH TAG #NACCHOagm2018

This is Brisbane Oct 30—Nov 2

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.

More Info soon

6. NACCHO Aboriginal Male Health Ochre Day

Hobart  Aug 27 –28

More Info soon

7. NATSIHWA National Professional Development Symposium 2018

We’re excited to release the dates for the 2018 National Professional Development Symposium to be held in Alice Springs on 2nd-4th October. More details are to be released in the coming weeks; a full sponsorship prospectus and registration logistics will be advertised asap via email and newsletter.

This years Symposium will be focussed on upskilling our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners through a series of interactive workshops. Registrants will be able to participate in all workshops by rotating in groups over the 2 days. The aim of the symposium is to provide the registrants with new practical skills to take back to communities and open up a platform for Health Workers/Practitioners to network with other Individuals in the workforce from all over Australia.

We look forward to announcing more details soon!

8.AIDA Conference 2018 Vision into Action


Building on the foundations of our membership, history and diversity, AIDA is shaping a future where we continue to innovate, lead and stay strong in culture. It’s an exciting time of change and opportunity in Indigenous health.

The AIDA conference supports our members and the health sector by creating an inspiring networking space that engages sector experts, key decision makers, Indigenous medical students and doctors to join in an Indigenous health focused academic and scientific program.

AIDA recognises and respects that the pathway to achieving equitable and culturally-safe healthcare for Indigenous Australians is dynamic and complex. Through unity, leadership and collaboration, we create a future where our vision translates into measureable and significantly improved health outcomes for our communities. Now is the time to put that vision into action.

AIDA Awards
Nominate our members’ outstanding contributions towards improving the health and life outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

9.CATSINaM Professional Development Conference

Venue: Hilton Adelaide 

Location:  233 Victoria Square, Adelaide, SA 

Timing: 8:30am – 5:30pm

We invite you to be part of the CATSINaM Professional Development Conference held in Adelaide, Australia from the 17th to the 19th of September 2018.
The Conference purpose is to share information while working towards an integrated approach to improving the outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. The Conference also provides an opportunity to highlight the very real difference being made in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health by our Members.
To this end, we are offering a mixed mode experience with plenary speaker sessions, panels, and presentations as well as professional development workshops.

More info

The CATSINaM Gala Dinner and Awards evening,  held on the 18th of September, purpose is to honour the contributions of distinguished Members to the field.

10.Healing Our Spirit Worldwide

Global gathering of Indigenous people to be held in Sydney
University of Sydney, The Healing Foundation to co-host Healing Our Spirit Worldwide
Gawuwi gamarda Healing Our Spirit Worldwidegu Ngalya nangari nura Cadigalmirung.
Calling our friends to come, to be at Healing Our Spirit Worldwide. We meet on the country of the Cadigal.
In November 2018, up to 2,000 Indigenous people from around the world will gather in Sydney to take part in Healing Our Spirit Worldwide: The Eighth Gathering.
A global movement, Healing Our Spirit Worldwidebegan in Canada in the 1980s to address the devastation of substance abuse and dependence among Indigenous people around the world. Since 1992 it has held a gathering approximately every four years, in a different part of the world, focusing on a diverse range of topics relevant to Indigenous lives including health, politics, social inclusion, stolen generations, education, governance and resilience.
The International Indigenous Council the governing body of Healing Our Spirit Worldwide has invited the University of Sydney and The Healing Foundation to co-host the Eighth Gathering with them in Sydney this year. The second gathering was also held in Sydney, in 1994.
 Please also feel free to tag us in any relevant cross posting: @HOSW8 @hosw2018 #HOSW8 #HealingOurWay #TheUniversityofSydney

Aboriginal Health #RHD #WHA71 #RHDACTION #IndigenousWFPHA @END_RHD : Australia a key contributor to global commitment to end deadly #rheumaticheartdisease in Australia @TheAHCWA @ama_media @AMSANTaus @HeartAust @MenziesResearch @NACCHOAustralia @telethonkids

The World Health Organisation resolution for global action to tackle rheumatic heart disease (RHD) will have significant implications for Australia, which has some of the highest rates of the disease in the world

This disease disproportionately affects some of the most vulnerable communities around the world, including our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia.

It’s the most common acquired cardiovascular disease in children and young adults in low resource settings.

More than any other condition, RHD is emblematic of the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians”

Institute Director Professor Jonathan Carapetis said the resolution, passed late Friday May 25 , will give RHD the attention required to eliminate what is mostly a preventable disease

Telethon Kids Institute is a founding partner of END RHD, a national alliance against the disease and home to the END RHD Centre of Research Excellence.

Rheumatic fever is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to Strep A infection of the skin and throat and, when left untreated, can lead to rheumatic heart disease – in turn causing disability and premature death. It affects 30 million people worldwide.

The resolution was passed at the 71st World Health Assembly in Geneva, attended by delegates from 194 WHO Member States. The commitment aims to consolidate efforts worldwide towards the prevention, control and elimination of RHD.


“This resolution puts RHD front and centre on the global agenda, meaning governments will be compelled to act,” Professor Carapetis said.


“Countries with a high burden of the disease will be required to prioritise the implementation of strategies aimed at prevention and treatment, with countries with a low burden providing support and funding.”

Watch sharing a heart beat

This film will give health messages and information for women with severe rheumatic heart disease. A film about Aboriginal women and the relationship between culture and health and how this influences care

Professor Carapetis said the passing of the resolution on the global stage reflected growing momentum to end RHD in Australia, and followed a February roundtable convened by Indigenous Health Minister Ken Wyatt with END RHD representatives, that resulted in a commitment to develop a roadmap to end the disease in Australia.

See Previous NACCHO RHD posts

NACCHO Aboriginal Heart @RHDAustralia Health :

In 11 languages health messages speak to patients

Professor Carapetis applauded the Australian Government for playing a leading role in drafting the resolution.

“We look forward to working closely with all relevant ministers and departments on the implementation of a comprehensive, research-backed strategy to end the disease in Australia.

“With more than 30 years of research behind us, combined with Indigenous leadership and growing political will at home and internationally, we’ve never been in a stronger position to make ending RHD a reality in Australia.”


About END RHD

END RHD is an alliance of health, research and community organisations seeking to amplify efforts to end RHD in Australia through advocacy and engagement.  The founding partners are the Australian Medical Association (AMA), National Heart Foundation of AustraliaAboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA), National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), Menzies School of Health ResearchAboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT), and the Telethon Kids Institute (home of the END RHD Centre for Research Excellence).

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #AFL @AlcoholDrugFdn #NRW2018 #WorldNoTobaccoDay : Senator Bridget McKenzie Minister for Sport and Rural Health supports Redtails Pinktails #SayNoMore Drugs, #Smoking and #FamilyViolence #SayYesTo #Education #Employment #Family #Community

 

 ” Over the weekend Senator Bridget McKenzie had a chat pregame to local Central Australia Redtails before they took on Darwin’s TopEnd Storm curtain raiser to AFL Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous round , a 6 hour broadcast on Channel 7 nationally : The Redtails and PinkTails Right Tracks Program is funded by the Local Drug Action Teams Program ”

See Part 1 Below

Part 2 Say No more to Family Violence all players link up

Part 3 #WorldNoTobaccoDay May 31 launched in the Alice

 ” Tobacco smoking is the largest preventable cause of death and disease in Australia and the Coalition Government is further committing to reduce the burden on communities.

In the lead up World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, today I am pleased to launch the next phase of the Coalition Government’s highly successful campaign Don’t Make Smokes Your Story,”

Watch video launch in the

The Minister for Rural Health, Senator Bridget McKenzie was also is in Alice Springs to launch the next phase of the National Tobacco Campaign and said that smoking related illness devastates individuals, families and the wider community : see Part 3 below

PART 1

Arrernte Males AFL Opening Ceremony

Arrernte women AFL Opening Ceremony

Part 1 The Australian Government and the ADF are excited to welcome an additional 92 Local Drug Action Teams, in to the LDAT program

The Senator with Alcohol and Drug Foundation CEO Dr Erin Lalor and  General Manager of Congress’ Alice Springs Health Services, Tracey Brand in Alice Springs talking about the inspirational Central Australian Local Drug Action Team at Congress and announcing 92 Local Drug Action Teams across Australia building partnerships to prevent and minimise harm of ice alcohol & illicit drugs use by our youth with local action plans

WATCH VIDEO of Launch

The Local Drug Action Team Program supports community organisations to work in partnership to develop and deliver programs that prevent or minimise harm from alcohol and other drugs (AOD).

Local Drug Action Teams work together, and with the community, to identify the issue they want to tackle, and to develop and implement a plan for action.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation provides practical resources to assist Local Drug Action Teams to deliver evidence-informed projects and activities. The community grants component of the Local Drug Action Team Program may provide funding to support this work.

Each team will receive an initial $10,000 to develop and finalise a Community Action Plan and then to implement approved projects in your community. Grant funding of up to a maximum of $30k in the first year and up to a maximum of $40k in subsequent years is also available to help deliver approved projects in Community Action Plans. LDAT funding is intended to complement existing funding and in kind support from local partners.

LDATs typically apply for grants of between $10k and $15k to support their projects

 

See ADF website for Interactive locations of all sites

The power of community action

Community-based action is powerful in preventing and minimising harm from alcohol and other drugs.

Alcohol and other drugs harms are mediated by a number of factors – those that protect against risk, and those that increase risk. For example, factors that protect against alcohol and other drug harms include social connection, education, safe and secure housing, and a sense of belonging to a community. Factors that increase risks of alcohol and other drug harms include high availability of drugs, low levels of social cohesion, unstable housing, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Most of these factors are found at the community level, and must be targeted at this level for change.

Alcohol and other drugs are a community issue, not just an individual issue.

Community action to prevent alcohol and other drug harms is effective because:

  • the solutions and barriers (protective/risk factors) for addressing alcohol and other drugs harm are community-based
  • it creates change that is responsive to local needs
  • it increases community ownership and leads to more sustainable change

Part 2 Say No more to Family Violence all players link up

Such a powerful message told here in Alice Springs today as the Redtails Football Club, Top End Storm football club, link arms with the Melbourne Football Club, Adelaide Football Club for the NO MORE Campaign AU before the AFL Indigenous Round started.

WEBSITE Link up and say ‘No More’

 

 Watch Channel 7 Coverage of this special statement from all players

Part 3 #WorldNoTobaccoDay May 31 launched in the Alice

Tobacco smoking is the largest preventable cause of death and disease in Australia and the Coalition Government is further committing to reduce the burden on communities.

In the lead up World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, today I am pleased to launch the next phase of the Coalition Government’s highly successful campaign Don’t Make Smokes Your Story,”

Watch the ABC TV Interview HERE

Watch video of launch in the Alice

Successful Tobacco Campaign Continues

Tobacco smoking is the largest preventable cause of death and disease in Australia and the Coalition Government is further committing to reduce the burden on communities.

The Minister for Rural Health, Senator Bridget McKenzie was in Alice Springs to launch the next phase of the National Tobacco Campaign and said that smoking related illness devastates individuals, families and the wider community.

“In the lead up World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, today I am pleased to launch the next phase of the Coalition Government’s highly successful campaign Don’t Make Smokes Your Story,” Minister McKenzie said.

“The latest phase of Don’t Make Smokes Your Story continues to focus on Indigenous Australians aged 18–40 years who smoke and those who have recently quit. The campaign also concentrates on pregnant women and their partners with Quit for You, Quit for Two.

“An evaluation of the first two phases of the campaign revealed they had successfully helped to reduce smoking rates.

“More than half of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants who saw the campaign took some action towards quitting smoking — and 8 per cent actually quit.

“These are very promising stats, however, we must continue to support and encourage those Australians who want to quit, but need help.”

The launch of the next phase of the campaign aligns with World No Tobacco Day and this year’s theme is Tobacco and heart disease.

“Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, killing one person every 12 minutes,” Minister McKenzie said.

“There is a clear link between tobacco and heart and other cardiovascular diseases, including stroke — a staggering 45,392 deaths in Australia can be attributed to cardiovascular disease in 20151.

“Latest estimates show that tobacco use and exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke not only costs the lives of loved ones, but it costs the Australian community $31.5 billion in social — including health — and economic costs.”

“The Coalition Government, along with all states and territories, has made significant efforts to reduce tobacco consumption across the board.

“For example, we know that tobacco is the leading cause of preventable disease for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people accounting for more than 12 per cent of the overall burden of illness.

“The Coalition Government has recently invested $183.7 million continuing to boost the Tackling Indigenous Smoking program to cut smoking and save lives.

“This comprehensive program has helped to cut the rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people smoking and we want to build on this success.

“The Government’s investment in this program highlights our long-term commitment to Closing the Gap in health inequality.”

The ABS report Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People: Smoking Trends, Australia, 1994 to 2014-15, reported a decrease in current (daily and non-daily) smoking rate in those aged 18 years and older from 55 per cent in 1994 to 45 per cent in 2014-15, which shows Indigenous tobacco control is working.

For help to quit smoking, phone the Quitline on 13 7848, visit the Department of Health’s Quitnow website or download the free My Quitbuddy app.

Your doctor or healthcare provider can also help with information and support you may need to quit.

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #WHA71 #IndigenousWFPHA News Alert : Virus afflicting thousands of Indigenous Australians to receive ‘rapid action’, Health Minister @GregHuntMP signals @AMSANTaus

  ” A major new taskforce will focus on Australia’s response to the blood-borne virus HTLV-1, found in Aboriginal communities at 1,000 times the rate of anywhere else in the world.

Key points:

  • Currently no prevention strategy for virus, which is transmitted by unprotected sex, blood contact, breastfeeding
  • Can cause rapidly fatal form of leukaemia, spinal cord inflammation, and is associated with severe lung condition
  • Minister calls for “rapid action for early testing” for the virus

The Federal Government will establish a new $8 million taskforce of doctors, Aboriginal health organisations and all levels of government, focused on HTLV-1, or human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type 1.”

Exclusive by ABC NEWS national Indigenous affairs correspondent Bridget Brennan

There is currently no strategy in Australia to prevent the virus, transmitted by unprotected sex, blood contact and breastfeeding, which can cause a rapidly fatal form of leukemia, and debilitating spinal cord inflammation.

As the ABC revealed last month, research by the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute suggests thousands of Indigenous people in Central Australia unknowingly have HTLV-1, which can cause serious disease in 5-10 per cent of carriers.

There is no vaccine, and the test for HTLV-1 is not subsidised in Australia, but the Health Minister Greg Hunt told ABC he wanted “rapid action for early testing” and would ask the Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) Review Taskforce to investigate.

“If we have a test, we can have treatment and we can also engage with research on a cure, so this can make a profound difference to the health of mothers and babies.”

“This is something we need to address on our time, on our watch, and that’s what we’re doing,”

Ancient virus affecting millions around the globe

The World Health Organisation is also considering its response to HTLV-1, convening a meeting of Australian and international public health experts.

At the agency’s annual World Health Assembly in Geneva, chief medical officer Professor Brendan Murphy told ABC “preliminary” talks were held to, “understand the epidemiology of HTLV infection and what actions might need to be taken”.

In several communities in the Alice Springs region, 45 per cent of adults have HTLV-1, and the virus is also associated with a severe, and often-fatal, lung condition called bronchiectasis.

Researchers at the Baker Institute are collaborating with five remote Aboriginal communities — which can’t be named for privacy reasons — to understand how widespread the virus is in desert communities.

HTLV-1 is a distant relative of HIV and was detected in 1979 in the United States, and later identified in Indigenous communities in Australia in 1988.

The virus is endemic to populations in Japan, the Caribbean, West Africa and South America.

‘Orphan’ virus urgently needs more research: experts

Since Australia’s rate of HTLV-1 infection was publicised, there had been a renewed push by HTLV-1 researchers around the world to prevent its spread.

Dr Louis M Mansky from the Institute for Molecular Virology at the University of Minnesota told ABC he regarded HTLV-1 as an “orphan” virus and was shocked by the rates of infection in Australia.

“There’s now a great awareness and interest in the Indigenous population of Australia, given how high the prevalence rate is,” he said.

Dr Mansky has led new research on the spread of HTLV-1 from cell to cell.

“It’s a critical part of the virus to be successfully transmitted from an infected individual to a newly infected individual, and that’s been our focus for many years now,” he said.

Dr Mansky said HTLV-1 was currently an “untreatable disease” because there had not been enough research on the retrovirus.

“It’s also quite clear that [patients] feel orphaned by society — that nobody’s really paying attention or really caring,” he said.

“Many people have not heard of HTLV-1 and it’s not had any impact on their lives, but if you do know someone, if you have been affected, it changes your whole outlook on life, quite negatively.”

Mr Hunt said Australia needed the help of other countries, “to understand what has worked”.

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #ACCHO Deadly Good News stories : Features #NSW @awabakalltd #QLD @TAIHS__ #VIC @VAHS1972 #SA #WA #Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre #ACT #NT Plus @FaCtS_Study #IGAwards2018

1.1 National : Reconciliation Australia’s 2018 Indigenous Governance Awards Closes 30 June

1.2 National : Partnerships and up to $40,000 funding for each Aboriginal communities to conduct research to find out what communities need to promote and improve safety for families closes 29 June 2018

2.QLD : Townsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health Services (TAIHS),Wins AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award

3.1 NSW : Why Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations like Katungul Aboriginal Community Corporation and Medical Service (ACC&MS) works best for Aboriginal people.?

3.2 NSW : Awabakal ACCHO Quit Crew Tackling Indigenous Smoking

4 .VIC : Yohanand sees his role as helping to run VAHS so it can improve Indigenous health in Victoria.#NRW2018

5.WA : Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya ACCHO , offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke

6. SA : Ultramarathon is no sweat for Zibeon Fielding in quest to raise funds for remote dialysis treatment

7. NT : AMSANT  : Inaugural NT Aboriginal Leadership and Governance Forum to be held Alice Springs

8.1 TAS : Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre ACCHO featured in primary health magazine

8.2 TAS : Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre : A treaty with Aboriginal people of Tasmania

9.ACT May 28 Australia’s first Reconciliation Day public holiday

 View hundreds of ACCHO Deadly Good News Stories over past 6 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 /Friday

1.1 National : Reconciliation Australia’s 2018 Indigenous Governance Awards Closes 30 June

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations that place culture at the heart of their governance are invited to apply for the 2018 Indigenous Governance Awards (IGAs), which were launched today.

Reconciliation Australia and BHP Billiton are proud to run the awards for the first time in partnership with the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, a national centre of governance excellence.

Established in 2005, the IGAs publicly recognise and celebrate outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations and projects that make extraordinary contributions to communities and the nation.

Organisations that are displaying effective Indigenous governance are encouraged to apply, with prizes including corporate mentoring, feedback from the judging panel, media and networking opportunities, and a share in $60,000.

Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine said it was important to showcase the high achievers in Indigenous governance, so that they get the accolades they deserve – and so that broader Australia understands their important contributions.

“For more than a decade, the IGA winners have shown that so much is possible when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander develop innovative and robust systems of governance by putting culture at the heart of what they do,” Ms Mundine said.

Australian Indigenous Governance Institute CEO Michelle Deshong said governance was the foundation stone that enabled Indigenous peoples and communities to build a prosperous future.

“The ability to come together, set goals, and put things in place to achieve their goals, allows people to build a self-determined future,” Ms Deshong said.

“For Indigenous peoples, this means navigating a complex and interconnected web of cultural, environmental, economic and political influences. Celebrating those who have done this well fills us with ideas, confidence and inspiration.”

The two award categories are Category A: Indigenous-led incorporated organisations and Category B: Indigenous-led non-incorporated initiatives or projects.

Winners in each of the two categories will receive $20,000, and highly commended organisations in each category will each be awarded $10,000. Ms Mundine said the IGAs have a history of attracting high caliber nominations from organisations around the country, from the bustling capital cities to our most remote communities.

“In 2018, we want to see applications from organisations and projects that are making a difference in their communities, through community engagement, varying governance models and cultural practices.

Applications or recommendations for the 2018 Indigenous Governance Awards can be made online at http://www.reconciliation.org.au/iga or by calling 02 6273 9200. Applications close Saturday 30 June 2018.

There are two award categories:

  • Category A: Outstanding examples of Indigenous governance in Indigenous incorporated organisations.
  • Category B: Outstanding examples of Indigenous governance in non-incorporated initiatives or projects.

Each category is looking for governance that demonstrates:

  • Innovation
  • Effectiveness
  • Self-determination and leadership
  • Cultural relevance and legitimacy
  • Future planning, sustainability and governance resilience.

1.2 National : Partnerships and up to $40,000 funding for each Aboriginal communities to conduct research to find out what communities need to promote and improve safety for families closes 29 June 2018

The Australian National University is seeking partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to conduct research to find out what communities need to promote and improve safety for families. We want to partner and work with local organisations and communities to make sure the research benefits the community.

Who are we?

We work at the Australian National University (ANU). The study is led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers. Professor Victoria Hovane (Ngarluma, Malgnin/Kitja, Gooniyandi), along with Associate Professor Raymond Lovett (Wongaibon, Ngiyampaa) and Dr Jill Guthrie (Wiradjuri) from NCEPH, and Professor Matthew Gray of the Centre for Social Research and Methods (CSRM) at ANU will be leading the study.

Study Question: What would it take to address Family Violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities?

How are we going to gather information to answer the study question?

A Community Researcher (who we would give funds to employ) would capture the data by interviewing 100 community members, running 3 focus groups for Men / Women / Youth (over 16).  We would interview approx. 5 community members to hear about the story in your community.

We know Family Violence happens in all communities. We don’t want to find out the prevalence, we want to know what your communities needs to feel safe. We will also be mapping the services in your community, facilities and resources available in a community.  All this information will be given back to your community.

What support would we provide your service?

We are able to support your organisation up to $40,000 (including funds for $30 vouchers), this would also help to employ a Community Researcher.

Community participants would be provided with a $30 voucher to complete a survey, another $30 for the focus group, and another $30 for the interview for their time.

What will we give your organisation?

We can give you back all the data that we have captured from your community, (DE identified and confidentialised of course).We can give you the data in any form you like, plus create a Community Report for your community. There might be some questions you would like to ask your community, and we can include them in the survey.

How long would we be involved with your community / organisation?

Approximately 2 months

How safe is the data we collect?

The data is safe. It will be DE identified and Confidentialised. Our final report will reflect what Communities (up to 20) took part in the study, but your data and community will be kept secret.  Meaning, no one will know what data came from your community.

If you think this study would be of benefit to your community, or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Victoria Hovane and the FaCtS team on 1800 531 600 or email facts.study@anu.edu.au.

2.QLD : Townsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health Services (TAIHS),Wins AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award

 ” A very BIG congratulations to our deadly health team for winning the AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award.  This is an incredible recognition for all the hard work our health staff do, and the commitment they show to our community. And, thanks to Aunty Di Ross for making the trip to Melbourne and attending the dinner on Friday night, so that she could accept the award on our behalf “

TAIHS ACCHO MOB

AGPAL is excited to announce the winners for the AGPAL & QIP Excellence Awards.

With six award categories open for nominations,our judging panel were wowed by the numerous stories of team work, innovation, safety and quality, and quality improvement initiatives. We thank everyone who took the time to submit a nomination.

The Excellence Winner and Highly Commended Recipient for each category was announced at the AGPAL& QIP 2018 Conference Gala Dinner, held on Friday 18 May 2018 at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne. These achievements were recognised over the period 30 June 2015 to 30 December 2017.

Due to the high calibre of nominations for the QIP Community Organisation of the Year Award, our judging panel created an extra award category announced on the night to recognise the significant efforts two organisations have undertaken to recognise diversity.

Please join us in congratulating each of the AGPAL & QIP award winners, listed below.

 

AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award

Excellence Winner – Townsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health Services (TAIHS), Queensland

Highly Commended – Nidjalla Waangan Mia, Western Australia

Please join us in congratulating each of the AGPAL award finalists, listed below.

Finalists  AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service, Queensland

Awabakal Medical Service, New South Wales

Ngaanyatjarra Health Service, Northern Territory

3.1 NSW : Why Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations like Katungul Aboriginal Community Corporation and Medical Service (ACC&MS)works best for Aboriginal people.?

The CEO of a NSW based  Aboriginal community controlled health service says it’s important for  Government and other  non -Aboriginal health practitioners to understand what they actually do and why throwing lots of money at  health service delivery is not the only solution.

A recent   mainstream media report suggested that  the roll out  of Aboriginal only services is  “driving a dangerous racial wedge and putting Australia on a slippery slope towards its own form of apartheid “….. but  despite the claim the Katungul Aboriginal Community Corporation and Medical Service (ACC&MS) has  successfully provided   health care to  Koori people on the Far South Coast of New South Wales for the last 46 years.

CEO Robert Skeen told CAAMA  NEWS  that as well as being the largest employer of Koori  people on the far south  coast  ….Katungul also  has a large knowledge  base of older  people  who  are still actively involved in the sector.

Listen to the full interview here :

3.2 NSW : Awabakal ACCHO Quit Crew Tackling Indigenous Smoking

This Sunday the 27th of May the Awabakal Quit Crew will be heading over to Boolaroo Rugby fields, home to the mighty Awabakal United Eagles Women’s League tag and Men’s Rugby League Team.

The Quit Crew will have giveaways and prizes to be won. Join us from 12pm – 4pm

4 .VIC : Yohanand sees his role as helping to run VAHS so it can improve Indigenous health in Victoria.#NRW2018

They were one of my clients before, and that got me reading the Federal Government’s Closing the Gap report. That’s when I became aware of the differences in health outcomes between Aboriginal people and the rest of Australia,

The biggest fact that stood out to me was life expectancy, where the average gap with the rest of Australia is more than 10 years. In this day and age?

It’s well documented that many Aboriginal people would rather not go to a mainstream clinic, which is why a lot health issues have gone unaddressed for years. A health service run by Aboriginal people for Aboriginal people makes it easier for them to talk about the issues they’re facing.”

Yohanand – who also goes by John – came across the life expectancy figures when working as a senior consultant at chartered accountants Saward Dawson, who have many not-for-profit clients, including VAHS

With an annual turnover of around $20 million and some 200 staff, the VAHS is Victoria’s largest Aboriginal-controlled health service, and John says community control allows it to make a difference

Download Summary-of-VAHS-Strategic-Plan-2017-2022

Yohanand is now VAHS’s Chief Financial Officer, a position he gained in early 2017, just before starting his MBA at Melbourne Business School thanks to a scholarship funded by our Senior Executive MBA Class of 2003.

“If it wasn’t for the scholarship, I wouldn’t have even thought about applying for the program. It really encourages me that there are other people out there who think about the challenges we face and how hard it is to attract people with the skills that are needed to run a business.”

As a not-for-profit organisation, Melbourne Business School is committed to helping passionate people like Yohanand improve the lives of others.

Yohanand sees his role as helping to run VAHS as well as possible so it can improve Indigenous health in Victoria.

“It’s won’t be me that makes a change in health outcomes for Indigenous Victorians, but I can help hire the right people and have as many clinics operate across Victoria as possible to achieve that outcome.

“I’ve always been very passionate about the not-for-profit sector, and I want to make sure that, wherever I work at, I’m always making a difference that will last beyond me. It’s not just about me being there.”

5.WA : Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya ACCHO , offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke.

Are you aware of the dangers of passive smoking?

Listen in, as Jodi from the TIS team at Wirraka Maya, offers a few key messages to help you protect those around you from harmful second-hand smoke.
If you need help quitting smoking, give us a call on 08 9172 0444#WMHSAC #BeAtYourBest #WirrakaMaya

VIEW HERE

6. SA : Ultramarathon is no sweat for Zibeon Fielding in quest to raise funds for remote dialysis treatment

 ” Mr Fielding was running to raise money for The Purple House, an organisation that provides dialysis to some of Australia’s most remote communities.

Aside from the more than $40,000 raised so far, he wants to promote a healthy lifestyle to other Indigenous Australians.”

From ABC TV COVERAGE

Photo: Rob De Castella and Zibeon Fielding celebrate after the big race. (Facebook: Indigenous Marathon Project)

I’m knackered. My legs are blown out, I’m about to kick the feet up and have a sleep.”

Starting at 4am in the APY Lands town of Indulkana, Zibeon Fielding has just finished a 62-kilometre ultramarathon.

The feat, which is about the same as running one and a half full marathons, comes just five weeks after Mr Fielding completed the Boston Marathon.

It would be hard to find two more different experiences.

“The temperature and the weather conditions were horrible that day, and it was just bucketing down rain,” he said of running in Boston.

“It was minus 15 degrees and you couldn’t feel any circulation from your elbow to your fingertips.”

In the APY Lands, Mr Fielding completed the entire ultramarathon on an unsealed road, which varies from gravel to red dirt.

He also had to contend with wildlife — early on he spotted a pack of dingoes while he was still running in the dark.

“You’re out running on your own, where in Boston there are thousands of other runners,” he said.

Mr Fielding was running to raise money for The Purple House, an organisation that provides dialysis to some of Australia’s most remote communities.

Aside from the more than $40,000 raised so far, he wants to promote a healthy lifestyle to other Indigenous Australians.

“I’m here to make a change, with Indigenous people and their health and wanting to be a role model and lead a brighter and better future,” he said.

“I want to see more of our people becoming healthy so they can have better lives.”

‘The first 42 kilometres was just a warm-up’

The seasoned runner is an alumni of the Indigenous Marathon Project.

In 2016, he and 11 other Indigenous Australians ran the New York Marathon after six months of training.

World champion marathon runner Rob De Castella developed the initiative and was on hand for the entire ultramarathon, encouraging Fielding along the way.

“I’m incredibly proud,” he said.

“This is the face of Indigenous Australia that I want all Australians to see.

“I think it is so important for our country to have these really bright, shining lights — our Aboriginal and Islander men and women.”

Mr De Castella said the 62-kilometre run was no easy feat.

“To run 62 kilometres, that’s a marathon, and then you almost need to keep going for another half marathon,” he said.

“We talk about hitting the wall at 30 kilometres, and the struggle to get through — the battle of the mind over the body over that last 12 kilometres.

“The 42 kilometres was just a warm-up for Zibeon.”

He said Mr Fielding’s achievements were a testament to kind of change he wanted to see coming out of the Indigenous Marathon Project.

“It’s not about taking a group of Indigenous people to New York to run a marathon, it is about what they do afterwards,” Mr De Castella said.

“The journey really starts when you cross the finish line and that’s exactly what we’ve seen with Zibeon.

“Doing something that is hard — running a marathon in six months — gives you an incredible sense of pride and self-respect.

As for his next challenge, Mr Fielding hasn’t ruled out going even further.

But first, food.

“Hopefully I’ll get a snag, if I could find a burger that’d be great,” he quipped.

7.1 NT : AMSANT  : Inaugural NT Aboriginal Leadership and Governance Forum to be held Alice Springs

The Office of Aboriginal Affairs’ Inaugural NT #Aboriginal #Leadership and #Governance Forum will be held in Alice Springs next Friday, 25 May. #AGMP Manager, Wes Miller, will be a panelist at the event.

Registration is free and open now at www.tinyurl.com/yaupmbhg. We hope to see you there!

7.2 NT : AMSANT  : Re shaping the Youth Justice System

8.1 TAS : Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre ACCHO featured in primary health magazine

Download a copy primaryhealthmatters8-v5

WHEN Primary Health Tasmania started looking at commissioning mental health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, our research pointed to a need for a strong focus on social and emotional wellbeing.

To do this, we needed to build our understanding about how resources could best be used to improve social and emotional wellbeing by turning to local Aboriginal communities themselves.

Primary Health Tasmania worked with seven organisations to co-design services aimed at building resilience and empowering people to have a role in managing their mental health.

Australian Government-funded activity encompasses a range of culturally appropriate events, from on country experiences and grief and loss workshops, to mental health

Programs designed to build the capacity of service providers to better support the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal clients were also commissioned.

They aim to help strengthen different organisations’ health-related knowledge.

The following organisations have been commissioned to deliver services to support the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people:

  • Cape Barren Island Aboriginal Association (north east)
  • Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation (north west)
  • Flinders Island Aboriginal Association (north east)
  • Karadi Aboriginal Corporation (south)
  • Rural Health Tasmania (north west)
  • South East Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation (south)
  • Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre (statewide).

“These programs were crafted by listening to the expert advice of these organisations, most of which are Aboriginal community-controlled organisations,” Primary Health Tasmania’s Susan Powell says.

Adopting a co-design approach that included the learnings of established local organisations was critical to giving the programs the best chance of success for Aboriginal people taking part in them, she says.

“We asked them to propose services they thought had the best chance of improving the social and emotional wellbeing of local Aboriginal people, based on what they know is needed and will work,” Ms Powell says. 

8.2 TAS : Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre : A treaty with Aboriginal people of Tasmania

9.ACT May 28 Australia’s first Reconciliation Day public holiday

This year will proudly have Australia’s first Reconciliation Day public holiday on Monday 28th May. Reconciliation Day and is a time to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, to share that knowledge and help us grow

Members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community can access Transport Canberra’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus to attend the event. The bus will be departing from Bay 4 of the Queanbeyan bus interchange on Morisset Street from 9.30am on Monday 28 May, and will shuttle between the interchange and the event throughout the day. See below schedule for approximate timings – places are limited.

9.30am – Queanbeyan Bus Interchange, Bay 4
10am – Glebe Park

10.30am – Queanbeyan Bus Interchange, Bay 4

11am – Glebe Park

11.30am – Queanbeyan Bus Interchange, Bay 4

12pm – Glebe Park

12.30pm – Queanbeyan Bus Interchange, Bay 4

1pm – Glebe Park

2.15pm – Glebe Park to Queanbeyan Bus Interchange, Bay

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #ACCHO Job Opportunities Inc #Nurses #Doctors etc #NT @MiwatjHealth @CAACongress #QLD @ATSICHSBris @IUIH_ @Apunipima @NATSIHWA #Aboriginal Health Workers @IAHA_National Allied Health @SNAICC @CATSINaM #Nursing

This weeks #Jobalerts

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

Job of the week 

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

About the Organisation

The name Derbarl Yerrigan is the Wadjuk Noongar name for the Swan River. Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (DYHSAC) is an Aboriginal community controlled health organisation which was established in 1974 as the Perth Aboriginal Medical Service and later changed its name to DYHSAC in 1998.

We provide holistic and integrated primary health care services to Aboriginal people living in the Perth metropolitan region. DYHSAC employs 138 staff across its head office in East Perth and clinics in Maddington, Midland and Mirrabooka.

DYHSAC targets the social, emotional, cultural and physical wellbeing of Aboriginal people living on Noongar country. Our staff deliver comprehensive primary health care services at each DYHSAC clinic including:

  • Preventative care focussed on early detection and management of chronic illness across all ages;
  • Post-natal and antenatal care to women and families;
  • Early childhood, school age, and adolescent health programs;
  • Team-based management of chronic diseases with a focus on preventing disease progression and complications and maintaining quality of life;
  • Dental services to DYHSAC clients aged 13 years and above, including the development of full dental plans;
  • Access to a comprehensive suite of services provided by mental health and allied health care professionals and specialist services; and
  • Pharmacy and transport services to DYHSAC clients.

For more information, please visit the DYHSAC website, www.dyhs.org.au

About the Opportunity

The Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is currently seeking to appoint a Deputy Chief Executive Officer (D/CEO).

This position provides an exciting and challenging opportunity for a suitably experienced professional, with the ability to oversee the day-to-day operations of a well-established Aboriginal community controlled health service currently operating through an extensive change management process.

The D/CEO will work directly with the CEO, Executive Management Team and Board of Directors, managing the day to day operations and delivery of primary healthcare services to the local Aboriginal communities across four sites in the Perth metro area (East Perth, Midland, Mirrabooka and Maddington).

Currently operating through a period of change, DYHSAC is seeking an individual with extensive executive management experience including a proven ability to achieve key strategic objectives in a dynamic and challenging environment.

As an inspiring and collaborative leader, the D/CEO will work strategically to enable transformative change by strengthening the organisation and creating a sustainable future for improved health outcomes for our local Aboriginal communities.

Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Driving and implementing extensive cultural workplace changes
  • Achieving the strategic objectives and responsibilities of the organisation
  • Diversifying and growing revenue streams to increase service delivery
  • Strengthening the organisation’s stakeholder relations, community engagement and patient satisfaction
  • Building and sustaining strong financial performance
  • Developing and maintaining a collaborative and effective working relationship with the Board of Directors aspiring to a shared vision

To view the full position description and selection criteria, please visit www.ahcwa.org.au/employment

To view and download the application pack, please visit www.ahcwa.org.au/employment

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

There are 2 JOBS AT Apunipima Cairns and Cape York

The link to  job vacancies on website is

MAMU HEALTH SERVICE LIMITED

Mamu Health Service Limited is an Aboriginal community controlled health service providing comprehensive primary health care services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Ravenshoe and surrounding districts.  We are recruiting the following positions for our Ravenshoe Clinic:-

Aboriginal & or Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Practice Certificate III/IV Fixed Term. Applicant must have previous experience in similar role.

Traineeship – Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice) HLT30113 Certificate III – If you have a passion to work in the health industry we are offering a Traineeship in Certificate III ATSI Primary Health Care (Practice) fixed term (12- 14 months) (It is a genuine occupational requirement that the position be filled by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person as permitted by Section 25, 105 & 106 Queensland Anti-Discrimination (1991) Act.)

Registered Nurse – A Full time position is available. Applicants must have previous experience in working with the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. This is a Rural & Remote position which offers an attractive employment package including accommodation & fuel allowance.

All applicants must be willing to undertake an AFP Criminal History Check, and a Blue Card with Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian.

To apply for this vacancy, a full application package can be obtained from our website on http://www.mamuhsl.org.au, or please don’t hesitate to contact Julie Browne on 07 4061 9988 or jbrowne@mamuhsl.org.au to register your interest.

Please submit your resume and written responses addressing the Knowledge, Skills and Personal Attributes/Selection Criteria outlined in the Position Description to: The Chief Executive Officer Mamu Health Service Limited PO Box 1537 INNISFAIL Q 4860 Applications close at 5.00 pm on Friday 8th June 2018

Mamu Website

Ravenshoe Positions:

RAV-067 Trainee Health Worker_Position Description

RAV-066 ATSI Health Worker_3

RAV-060 Registered Nurse_Position Description3

Innisfail Positions:

IFL-267 Trainee Health Worker

IFL-264 ATSI Health Worker_2

IFL-263 ATSI Health Worker_2

IFL 269 Community Liason Officer_Female (002)

IFL-261 Sport Rec Officer_Position Description_110518 (003)

FOR ALL POSITIONS

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY 8th JUNE 2018 5.00PM

 

There are 3 JOBS AT IUIH Brisbane

+ Traineeship Coordinator (Ongoing Full Time position based at Windsor) + Clinical Optometrist (Full Time or Part Time position based at Windsor) + Social Health Care Coordinator – MATSICHS (Ongoing Full Time position located at Morayfield)

 There are 14 JOBS at ATSICHS Brisbane

As part of our commitment to providing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community of Brisbane with a comprehensive range of primary health care, youth, child safety, mental health, dental and aged care services, we employ approximately 150 people across our locations at Woolloongabba, Woodridge, Northgate, Acacia Ridge, Browns Plains, Eagleby and East Brisbane.

The roles at ATSICHS are diverse and include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Aboriginal Health Workers
  • Registered Nurses
  • Transport Drivers
  • Medical Receptionists
  • Administrative and Management roles
  • Medical professionals
  • Dentists and Dental Assistants
  • Allied Health Staff
  • Support Workers

Current vacancies

Jobs of the week 28 positions in the NT Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

There are 7 JOBS at Congress Alice Springs

More info and apply HERE

There are 21 JOBS at Miwatj Health Arnhem Land

More info and apply HERE

There are 5 JOBS at Wurli Katherine

More info and apply HERE

Maternal and Child Health Team Manager

About the Opportunity

Nunkuwarrin Yunti have a rewarding opportunity for a Registered Nurse (RN3) to join their vibrant team as a Maternal and Child Health Team Manager, based in Adelaide, on a full-time basis.

Leading the Strong Mums Solid Kids program the Maternal and Child Health Team Manager will focus on the line management, leadership and coordination activities of team of 6+ staff. With limited professional and management supervision, the Maternal and Child Health Team Manager will achieve continuity and quality of client care and be primarily accountable for the outcomes of practices in the practice setting.

What You Need to Succeed

Our ideal candidate will be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Authority (AHPRA) Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia; and bring the following:

  • Knowledge and an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander societies and culture and the issues which may impact on maternal child and family wellbeing
  • Proven experience leading a multi-disciplinary team within a professional practice framework, and of a broad range of health professionals
  • Demonstrated experience coordinating and managing service level operations within a comprehensive primary health care context and effectively oversee clinical governance in the area of midwifery and/or child and family health
  • Ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and ensure culturally appropriate service delivery
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to work under pressure in a complex, busy workplace
  • Previous experience working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service or community primary health care that demonstrate best practice outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients will be highly regarded but is not essential.

To view the full position description, please click here.

About the Organisation

Nunkuwarrin Yunti is the foremost Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation in Adelaide, South Australia, providing a range of health care and community support services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Nunkuwarrin Yunti aims to promote and deliver improvement in the health and well-being of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the greater metropolitan area of Adelaide and advance their social, cultural and economic status.

More info Apply HERE

We are currently hiring for 2 Senior Policy & Research Officers
The link to the role on Ethical Jobs is here:

ACCHO Member : Stakeholder PHN Murray

Position: Aboriginal Access Advisor Intern

Location : Bendigo

Closing Date : 24 June

More Info apply: http://www.murrayphn.org.au/aboriginal-internship

Job Ref : N2018 – 37