Aboriginal Health Canada and Australia : Cultural #Safety #Humility #Awareness #Sensitivity #Competence

” Supporting the health care system to be culturally safe for Indigenous people is one of our top priorities.

All our programs and initiatives work toward inclusive health services and a health care system respectful of Indigenous people in Northern British Columbia Canada “

Cultural safety improves as proceed along this path of self-reflection and Learning

View Cultural Safety Video here or Below

Read previous NACCHO Cultural Safety articles HERE

” Cultural safety refers to the accumulation and application of knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values, principles and norms.1

It is about overcoming the cultural power imbalances of places, people and policies to contribute to improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and increasing numbers within, and support for, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce “

Download the AIDA Cultural Safety Factsheet HERE

AIDA Cultural-Safety-Factsheet1

Download Other Australian Position papers

NACCHO CSTStandardsBackgroundPaper-NACCHO

CATSINAM cultural-safety-endorsed-march-2014-

Cultural Humility

Cultural humility is a lifelong journey of self-reflection and learning. It involves listening without judgement and being open to learning from and about others. It involves learning about our own culture and our biases. Cultural humility is a building block for cultural safety. It is an overarching principle that is threaded through our learning and acts as the process by which change can occur.

Cultural Awareness

The journey of cultural humility often starts with cultural awareness – recognizing that differences and similarities exist between cultures. Learning about the histories that impact Indigenous peoples in Canada is an important part of developing cultural awareness.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity grows when we start to see the influences of our own culture and acknowledge that we have biases. This can be an eye-opening experience, and it may take courage and humility to walk this path. Cultural sensitivity is NOT about treating everyone the same.

With cultural awareness and sensitivity comes a responsibility to act respectfully.

Cultural Competence

We can increase our cultural competence by developing knowledge, skills and attitudes for working effectively and respectfully with diverse people. It’s about reducing the number of assumptions we make about people based on our biases. Cultural competency does not require us to become experts in cultures different from our own.

Cultural Safety

The goal of cultural safety is for all people to feel respected and safe when they interact with the health care system. Culturally safe health care services are free of racism and discrimination. People are supported to draw strengths from their identity, culture and community.

Background Australia AIDA Cultural Safety Factsheet

This Cultural Safety Factsheet outlines some practical and achievable actions that can be implemented to strengthen cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This Factsheet complements the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA)

Cultural Safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Doctors, Medical Students and Patients position paper available at http://www.aida.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Cultural_Safety.pdf.

This paper provides guidance and outlines the parameters for AIDA in our work to advocate for a health system that is culturally safe, high quality, reflective of needs and respects and incorporates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural values.

What is Cultural Safety?

Cultural safety refers to the accumulation and application of knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values, principles and norms.1

It is about overcoming the cultural power imbalances of places, people and policies to contribute to improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and increasing numbers within, and support for, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce.1

As outlined in our Cultural Safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Doctors, Medical Students and Patients position paper,1 AIDA views cultural safety on a continuum of care with cultural awareness being the first step in the learning process and cultural safety being the final outcome.

This is a dynamic and multi-dimensional process where an individual’s place in the continuum of care can change depending on the setting.

For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled health services, hospitals or communities.1

1 Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association, 2013, Position Paper Cultural Safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Doctors, Medical Students and Patients, AIDA, Canberra.

Why is Cultural Safety important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a disproportionate burden of illness and social disadvantage when compared with non-Indigenous Australians.

Additionally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience much higher levels of racism and discrimination.

AIDA recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture as a source of strength, resilience, happiness, identity and confidence, which has a positive impact on the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

To improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, health service provision needs to be responsive to cultural differences and the impacts of conscious and unconscious racism.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to access and will experience better outcomes from services that are respectful and culturally safe places.

Likewise, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical students and doctors are more likely to stay and thrive in learning and working environments that consistently demonstrate cultural safety.1 Cultural Safety Factsheet Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association

How can Cultural Safety be strengthened?

Some practical and achievable measures can be implemented to strengthen cultural safety. This includes but is not limited to:

 prominent displays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork;
 prominent displays of posters specifically aimed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including promotion of health messages;
 asking patients if they identify as being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person in a respectful manner;
 providing an explanation to patients about why the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status of patients is being collected and how this information will inform better health care;
 collecting data on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status of new and existing patients (with the permission of patients);
 organising and participating in events that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, such as NAIDOC and Reconciliation Australia events;
 practising Welcome to Country for official events;
 practising Acknowledgement of Country;
 displaying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags in prominent positions;
 using Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in the naming of health services, buildings and programs;
 developing partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, communities and organisations;
 becoming a member of relevant peak Indigenous organisations;
 having appropriate support structures in place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
 including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on governance bodies;
 providing cultural safety training for all staff;
 developing and implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan;
 developing and implementing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment strategy to promote an increase in the number of Indigenous employees; and championing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

How does AIDA contribute to strengthening Cultural Safety?

Cultural safety is an overarching theme of AIDA’s Values and Code of Conduct and is a key principle in all of AIDA’s Collaboration Agreements.

The aim is to contribute to improved health and life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people through growing the Indigenous medical workforce.

Much of our work is aimed at promoting culturally safe learning environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, doctors and service delivery to patients. Examples of our work in this area includes:

 development and implementation of the AIDA Cultural Safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Doctors, Medical Students and Patients position paper;1
 participation in the development and implementation of a culturally inclusive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health curriculum, known as the Committee of Deans of Australian Medical Schools Indigenous Health Curriculum Framework, available at

http://www.limenetwork.net.au/files/lime/cdamsframeworkreport.pdf;

Download the VACCHO Cultural Safety Enrolment Form

VACCHO-CS-ENROL-2017-WEB

What is cultural safety?

Cultural safety is about providing quality health care that fits within the familiar cultural values and norms of the person accessing the service that may differ from your own and/or the dominant culture.

How is cultural safety different to cultural awareness?

Cultural awareness focuses on raising individuals knowledge about cultural experiences that are different from their own. Cultural awareness training maintains an ‘other’ rather than clear self-focus for participants. Cultural awareness also tends to have an individual rather than systemic focus.

VACCHO’s cultural safety training encompasses some of the information that is often included in cultural awareness training. We do, however, build on cultural awareness training and provide practical tips and skills that can be utilised to improve practice and behaviour, which assist in making Aboriginal peoples feel safe. In shifting the focus to health systems, our participants begin to learn how to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal people, communities and organisations so that access is improved.

What cultural safety training does VACCHO offer?

We currently offer four training options:

Cultural supervision
Standard option – An Introduction to Cultural Safety in Aboriginal Health
Tailored option – Cultural Safety in Aboriginal Health: Develop your Practice, Knowledge and Skills
Victorian Public Sector and Services – Aboriginal Health Cultural Safety

How was VACCHO’s cultural safety training developed?

Our cultural safety training was developed in accordance with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (NACCHOs) Cultural Safety Training Standards.

During the design of our training, we consulted and collaborated with various key stakeholders, including:

the Victorian Aboriginal community
our Member organisations
mainstream health organisations
the Victorian Public Sector and Services

We asked Aboriginal people “what would you like non-Aboriginal people to know about you?” We also asked non-Aboriginal people “what information would help you work more effectively with Aboriginal people?”

We then trialed and tested our training with the Victorian Aboriginal community, including Elders, employees at VACCHO and our member organisations, health workers and other key stakeholders.

In June 2012, we began to deliver our training. Since then, we have delivered our training to more than 1,250 people across Victoria. We’re excited to think of the implications the completion of our training will have in program and policy design and the delivery of culturally safe services to Aboriginal people and communities.

How is VACCHO’s cultural safety training delivered?

VACCHO’s cultural safety training is delivered in three stages:

Pre-training: during this stage, we will create and send a unique, online Pre-Workshop Self-Reflection Activity for all participants to complete. This assists us in ascertaining the knowledge that already exists within the room and gives participants the opportunity to note any existing questions they would like addressed in our training.

Training: during this stage, we will deliver our interactive training and provide each participant with relevant materials (including a training pack and our 60 page learner resource guide). At the end of the training, each participant will complete an evaluation.

Post-training: during this stage, we will provide each participant who successfully completes our training with a certificate of participation. Where we deliver to a group, we will also provide the booking agency with an evaluation summary for future reference and recommendations (this summary is the collated responses of each individual evaluation).

For more information, or to make a booking, please contact our Cultural Safety Team or on 03 9411 9411.

NACCHO Aboriginal #WorldHealthDay : #LetsTalk about Depression and #mentalhealth

” The theme of our 2017 World Health Day campaign is depression

The Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration[4] was developed and launched by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership in Mental Health in 2015.

It provides a platform for governments to work collaboratively to embed culturally competent and safe services within the mental health system that are adaptable and accountable to Aboriginal and Torres Strait people.

Nearly one-third of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 15 years reported having high to very high levels of psychological distress. This was more than twice the levels reported for other Australians.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women reported these levels of stress more than men.

It is often hard to know how common depression is in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, however, because of the way people understand depression and their cultural understanding of mental illness.”

Subscribe to NACCHO Mental Health News Alerts

” Depression needs to be seen within the wider scope of the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; this means looking more holistically at health.

The warning signs for depression in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may vary between communities, so it is vital that the people working in the area of social and emotional wellbeing are aware of the different languages and understandings used by individual communities when talking about depression.

From Healthinfonet :Does the understanding of depression differ between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities?

” World Health Day, celebrated on 7 April every year to mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization, provides us with a unique opportunity to mobilize action around a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world.

Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends and the ability to earn a living. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15–29-year olds.

Yet, depression can be prevented and treated. A better understanding of what depression is, and how it can be prevented and treated, will help reduce the stigma associated with the condition, and lead to more people seeking help.

WHO World Heath Day

“The release of this much awaited Draft Fifth National Mental Health Plan is another important opportunity to support reform, and it’s now up to the mental health sector including consumers and carers, to help develop a plan that will benefit all.”

A successful plan should help overcome the lack of coordination and the fragmentation between layers of government that have held back our efforts to date.”

NACCHO and Mental Health Australia CEO Frank Quinlan have welcomed the release of the Draft Fifth National Mental Health Plan and is encouraging all ACCHO stakeholders to engage with the plan during the upcoming consultation period.

Download the Draft Fifth National Mental Health Plan at the link below:

PDF Copy fifth-national-mental-health-plan

You can download a copy of the draft plan;or see extracts below

Fifth National Mental Health Plan – PDF 646 KB
Fifth National Mental Health Plan – Word 537 KB

View all NACCHO 127 Mental Health articles here

View all NACCHO 97 Suicide Prevention articles here

Priority Area 4: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and suicide prevention

What we aim to achieve

Culturally competent care through integrating social and emotional wellbeing services with a range of mental health, drug and alcohol, and suicide prevention services.

What it means for consumers and carers?

You will receive culturally appropriate care.

Both your clinical and social and emotional wellbeing needs, and the needs of your community, will be addressed when care is planned and delivered.

Summary of actions

Governments will work collaboratively to develop a joined approach to social and emotional wellbeing support, mental health, suicide prevention, and alcohol and other drug services, recognising the importance of what an integrated service offers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Governments will work with Primary Health Networks and Local Hospital Networks to implement integrated planning and service delivery for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the regional level.
Governments will renew efforts to develop a nationally agreed approach to suicide prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Governments will work with service providers, including with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access to and experience with mental health and wellbeing services.
Governments will work together to strengthen the evidence base needed to inform development of improved mental health services and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Overview

Mental health and related conditions have been estimated to account for as much as 22 per cent of the health gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians, as measured in Disability-Adjusted Life Years. Mental health conditions are estimated to contribute to 12 per cent of the gap in the burden of disease, with another four per cent of the gap attributable to suicide and another six per cent to alcohol and other drug misuse.^[1]

The 2012-2013 Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey found that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults were almost three times more likely to experience high or very high levels of psychological distress than other Australians, are hospitalised for mental health and behavioural disorders at almost twice the rate of non-Aboriginal people, and have twice the rate of suicide than that of other Australians. The breadth and depth of such high levels of distress on individuals, their families, and their communities is profound.

Despite having greater need, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have limited access to mental health services and professionals. In 2012-2013, the most common Closing the Gap service deficits reported by organisations were around mental health and social and emotional wellbeing services.^[2]

Issues such as rural and remoteness, and the diversity and fractured coordination of government funding, policy frameworks and service systems, play a role in hindering the ability of services to adequately and appropriately address the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Islander people. It is also recognised that many services and programmes designed for the general population are not culturally appropriate within a broader context of social and emotional wellbeing as understood by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people embrace a holistic concept of health, which inextricably links mental and physical health within a broader concept of social and emotional wellbeing. A whole-of-life view, social and emotional wellbeing recognises the interconnectedness of physical wellbeing with spiritual and cultural factors, especially a fundamental connection to the land, community and traditions, as vital to maintaining a person’s wellbeing.

Disruption to this holistic understanding of social and emotional wellbeing caused by dispossession, dislocation, and trauma over generations has, for some Indigenous Australians, created a legacy of grief and psychological distress.

Most Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people want to be able to access services where the best possible mental health and social and emotional wellbeing strategies are integrated into all health service delivery and where health promotion strategies are developed with Aboriginal communities to provide a holistic approach. This approach needs an appropriate balance of clinical and culturally informed mental health system responses, including access to traditional and cultural healing, to address mental health issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people also continue to experience high levels of exclusion and victimisation, discrimination and racism at personal, societal, and institutional levels. Racism continues to have a significant impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s decisions about when and why they seek health services, their acceptance of and adherence to treatment.^[3]

While governments have been committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and suicide prevention, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have regularly informed governments that much more could be done to improve both the way in which services are structured and the range of services available. There is a need to better coordinate efforts and focus on achieving improved integration of culturally appropriate mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, suicide prevention, and alcohol and other drug services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Leadership will involve better collaboration and coordination across governments, and set the direction for how services and programmes can better work together. It will assist in driving and embedding change towards a better joined up and whole-of-life approach to mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, suicide prevention, and alcohol and other drug services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to drive the actions that are needed to support better mental health and social and emotional wellbeing, and reduced incidence of suicide, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Fifth Plan recognises that self-determination is essential to overcoming the disadvantage that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience. While governments have a critical role in providing leadership, actions will be developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities to ensure that appropriate solutions are developed and key challenges are addressed.

Governments will work collaboratively to improve the cultural safety and capability of the mental health and social and emotional wellbeing workforce, including increasing the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in this field, strengthening the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled health sector and developing the cultural competence of mainstream mental health services. An important factor in this collaborative process will be the inclusion of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the design and implementation of culturally relevant mental health services. Supporting skill development to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to actively participate in, and conduct research relating to, their own cultures is also important.

Governments recognise the need to improve access to information on what has been shown to work in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve social and emotional wellbeing, reduce the impact of mental illness and harms associated with alcohol and other drug use, and to prevent suicide.

Action 14: Governments will work with service providers, including with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access to and experience with mental health and wellbeing services by:

increasing knowledge of social and emotional wellbeing concepts and improving the cultural competence and capability of mainstream providers;
recognising the importance of Indigenous leadership and supporting implementation of the Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration; and
training all staff delivering mental health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly those in forensic settings, in trauma-informed care.

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership In Mental Health Group launched the Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration in 2015. The Declaration emphasises the importance of Indigenous leadership in addressing the mental health challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

The Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration[4] was developed and launched by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership in Mental Health in 2015. It provides a platform for governments to work collaboratively to embed culturally competent and safe services within the mental health system that are adaptable and accountable to Aboriginal and Torres Strait people.

The five themes of the Declaration are:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concepts of social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and health should be recognised across all parts of the Australian mental health system, and in some circumstances support specialised areas of practice.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concepts of social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and healing combined with clinical perspectives will make the greatest contribution to the achievement is the highest attainable standard of mental health and suicide prevention outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values-based social and emotional wellbeing and mental health outcome measures in combination with clinical outcome measures should guide the assessment of mental health and suicide preventions services and programmes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander presence and leadership is required across all parts of the Australian mental health system for it to adapt to, and be accountable to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for the achievement of the highest attainable standard of mental health and suicide prevention outcomes.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders should be supported and valued to be visible and influential across all parts of the Australian mental health system.

More info here

What is depression?

Depression is about a person’s state of mood. When a person has depression (often called clinical depression) they feel very low in mood (sad, unhappy, or ‘down in the dumps’) and also lose interest in activities they used to gain happiness from.

It is normal for people to feel sad every once in a while, but clinical depression is very different from the occasional feeling of sadness. There are several ways clinical depression differs from the occasional feeling of sadness, they include:

severity (how serious it is); clinical depression usually ranges from mild to severe
persistence (strength of the episode)
duration (how long it lasts)
the presence of typical symptoms (see next section).

When people feel sad or ‘down’ for a long time, usually for longer than 2 weeks, they may be depressed. Depression can affect anyone at any age.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

There are a number of signs or symptoms people may show when they have depression. People do not have to have all of them to be diagnosed with depression. The signs and symptoms of depression can include any of the following:

waking up feeling sad and not wanting to get out of bed
feeling sad for most of the day
feeling restless
feeling irritable (short-tempered) and/or angry which may lead to arguments with other people
not wanting to be around other people (may want to be alone)
thoughts of dying or hurting oneself
feeling guilty when not at fault
crying for no reason
losing interest in the things one likes
feeling worthless or hopeless
not sleeping well (maybe walking around all night), or sleeping too much
not eating well, or eating too much
less energy; tiredness
having problems concentrating, remembering things, or making decisions
weight loss or gain.

Does the understanding of depression differ between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities?

Depression needs to be seen within the wider scope of the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; this means looking more holistically at health. The warning signs for depression in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may vary between communities, so it is vital that the people working in the area of social and emotional wellbeing are aware of the different languages and understandings used by individual communities when talking about depression.

What are the risk factors for depression?

The factors that can contribute to depression include:

previous mental illness
poor physical health or long-term illness
grief, loss, and bereavement (referred to as a psychological cause)
trauma or stressful events
recently becoming a parent
too much alcohol, or gunga, or other drugs
family history of depression (referred to as a biological or genetic cause)
stopping any treatment for depression
breaking the law
social surroundings (e.g., environmental, housing conditions)
cultural or spiritual separation from country.

A person’s personality can also be a risk factor for depression. People who are: anxious or worry easily; unassertive (people who do not stand up for themselves); negative and self-critical (people who see themselves in a negative way); or shy and have low self-esteem (lack confidence) are at a higher risk of depression than people who do not have these types of personalities.

How do you treat depression?

There are many different ways to help people suffering from depression. People need to know that they do not have to put up with the feelings of depression. It is important to be supportive and encourage people to seek help from doctors, counsellors, Aboriginal Health Workers, or staff at the local Aboriginal medical service.

Medical treatments for depression can involve:

a full health check from a doctor to screen for any contributing health conditions (e.g., diabetes or hepatitis)
getting help from mental health professionals to work through any problems
medication (usually anti-depressant drugs)
limiting the intake of alcohol and other drugs.

Other tips for managing depression include:

talking to someone, for example, friends, family, or an Elder
getting involved in daily exercise
getting involved in activities that make you feel happy (e.g., fishing, going back to country)
trying to sleep and eat well
learning skills that a person can use when they feel they’re not coping well with a situation.

If the treatment is not working, it is important that people discuss this with their doctor, counsellor, or other mental health professional so that other options can be explored.

Aboriginal Health #WCPH2017 #WorldActivityDay : Snapshot report physical activity programs for Aboriginal people in Australia

” This is important as sharing information about program practice is an important part of effective health promotion and can serve to guide future initiatives.

The Ottawa Charter outlines a settings based approach to effective health promotion. We found most programs were delivered in community, followed by school, settings. Both have proven efficacy in achieving health outcomes.

They are likely be particularly effective settings for reaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people given the importance of holistic health promotion and whole-of-community approaches

Capturing current practice can inform future efforts to increase the impact of physical activity programs to improve health and social indicators.

Targeted, culturally relevant programs are essential to reduce levels of disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders ”

Rona Macniven, Michelle Elwell, Kathy Ride, Adrian Bauman and Justin Richards Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, & Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Picture above : Redfern All Blacks recently won the Women’s Division Ella Sevens Rugby Union tournament in Coffs Harbour beating the Highlanders 36-7

Download

A snapshot of physical activity programs targeting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia

Picture above :The Knight Riders beat the Shindogs 28-21 in the Men’s Final Ella Sevens Rugby Union tournament in Coffs Harbour

Issue addressed

Participation in physical activity programs can be an effective strategy to reduce chronic disease risk factors and improve broader social outcomes. Health and social outcomes are worse among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders than non-Indigenous Australians, who represent an important group for culturally specific programs.

The extent of current practice in physical activity programs is largely unknown. This study identifies such programs targeting this population group and describes their characteristics.

Aboriginal Health

Almost a third of programs aimed to promote physical activity to achieve broader social benefits such as educational and employment outcomes and reduced rates of crime. Health and sport programs are worthy crime prevention approaches.

There are also recognised relationships between physical activity and fitness level and academic achievement as well as social and mental health benefits specific to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.

However, a cautious approach to alluding to wider social benefits directly arising from individual programs should be taken in the absence of empirical evidence, as well as the direct effects of standalone programs on health.

Yet the documentation of existing program evaluation measures in this snapshot represents a vital first step in reviewing programs collectively and some have demonstrated encouraging evidence of positive educational and employment outcomes.

There is also some evidence of social benefits, such as community cohesion and cultural identity; derived from sport programs in this snapshot, which are important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

Such programs might therefore contribute to corresponding ‘Closing the Gap’ policy indicators and should be resourced accordingly.

Methods

Bibliographic and Internet searches and snowball sampling identified eligible programs operating between 2012 and 2015 in Australia (phase 1). Program coordinators were contacted to verify sourced information (phase 2). Descriptive characteristics were documented for each program.

Results

A total of 110 programs were identified across urban, rural and remote locations within all states and territories. Only 11 programs were located through bibliographic sources; the remainder through Internet searches.

The programs aimed to influence physical activity for health or broader social outcomes. Sixty five took place in community settings and most involved multiple sectors such as sport, health and education.

Almost all were free for participants and involved Indigenous stakeholders. The majority received Government funding and had commenced within the last decade. More than 20 programs reached over 1000 people each; 14 reached 0–100 participants. Most included process or impact evaluation indicators, typically reflecting their aims.

Conclusion

This snapshot provides a comprehensive description of current physical activity program provision for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia. The majority of programs were only identified through the grey literature. Many programs collect evaluation data, yet this is underrepresented in academic literature.

The Famous AFL “Fitzroy All Stars from Melbourne

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #WCPH2017 : Our #ACCHO Members Good News Stories from #NT #WA #VIC #SA #NSW #QLD @KenWyattMP

1.1 Queensland :Apunipima Cape York Health Council

1.2 Institute for Urban Indigenous Health /Deadly Choices

2.NT : Katherine West Health Board

3. Tasmania Aboriginal Centre

4. SA Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

5 .Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services

6. NSW Galambila Aboriginal Medical Service Coffs Harbour

7.Western Australia : Aboriginal Health Council of WA.

8. ACT /Canberra Winnunga

Lets celebrate and share our ACCHO’s success

How to submit a NACCHO Affiliate

or Members Good News Story ?

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media Mobile 0401 331 251

Wednesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Thursday

1.Queensland :Apunipima Cape York Health Council

“The opening of the Coen Health Care Centre is crucial to Apunipima’s commitment towards closing the gap in health for the people of Cape York.

As stated before, there is incontrovertible evidence that community driven, community led, culturally appropriate primary health care is key to improving health outcomes amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Apunipima will be working with Queensland Health and the Royal Flying Doctor Service to ensure that we are collectively able to meet the health needs of the Coen People

Apunipima CEO Cleveland Fagan : Photo above The Tackling Indigenous Smoking team

Part 1 : As of April 1^st 2017, Apunipima Cape York Health Council will be responsible for the running of Wellbeing Centres in Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge.

Apunipima Cape York Health Council now responsible for the running of Wellbeing Centres in Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge.

The four centres were operated by the Royal Flying Doctor Services (RFDS) for the past eight years.

RFDS implemented a project in 2009 to support the broad social and emotional wellbeing needs of those communities. They had great success and Apunipima is excited to work closely with each community to ensure all needs are met and to continue the vital work RFDS has already done.

Apunipima CEO, Cleveland Fagan said, “This is further confirmation that the community are on the way to achieving community control in the Cape. It is an exciting time for the communities and the organisation, and we are looking forward to continuing on with the great work RFDS has already done.”

CEO Cleveland Fagan went on to explain the approach Apunipima is taking, saying, “The centres will be following our comprehensive model of care, which we adopt across all our centres in the Cape. It’s a holistic approach to improve health and wellbeing for communities and families in Cape York.”

Apunipima has been providing advocacy for the people of Cape York for over 21 years. The organisation employs over 180 staff and services 11 communities across Cape York. Apunipima independently operates Primary Health Care Centres in Aurukun, Coen, Kowanyama, Napranum and Mossman Gorge, and welcomes the addition of the Wellbeing Centres in Aurukun, Coen, Hopevale, and Mossman Gorge.

The four centres will employ a total for 40 positions. There are eight staff members from RFDS coming over to Apunipima to fill eight of the 40 positions. 25 of the positions are community based, the remaining are fly in fly out staff.

Part 2: Apunipima Cape York Health Council’s newest Primary Health Care Centre is in Coen and doors open to the community on Monday April 3rd.

The Coen Apunipima Health Care Centre is Apunipima’s fifth independent Primary Health Care Centre, all of which are community driven and community led facilities on Cape York.

Staff will spend the first week of opening becoming familiar with the new work environment. Coen residents will be welcome to drop by for a look and a BBQ in the second week of opening.

The Apunipima Healthcare Centre in Coen will offer culturally appropriate primary health care services including GP/Nurse Practitioner services, Maternal and Child Health services, Social Emotional Wellbeing services, as well as Allied Healthcare services which include Podiatry, Diabetes Education, Dietetics, and Tackling Indigenous Smoking.

Louise Pratt, an Umpilawoman who grew up in Coen, is the Primary Healthcare Manager who will be running both new Centres in Coen. Louise has been with Apunipima for over 7 years, before which she worked as a Health Worker for Queensland Health. She has over eleven years’ experience working in Health which has provided her with a firm grasp on healthcare needs in Coen.

Louise said “this has been nearly ten years in the making and I just want to acknowledge all people from the staff to the CEO who have put in the hard work to make it happen. I especially want to acknowledge Verna Singleton who was the health worker in Coen before me. She was the first ever Indigenous Health Worker in Coen. She played an important part in getting Apunipima off the ground here, connecting community with healthcare.”

Apunipima CEO Cleveland Fagan said, “The opening of the Coen Health Care Centre is crucial to Apunipima’s commitment towards closing the gap in health for the people of Cape York. As stated before, there is incontrovertible evidence that community driven, community led, culturally appropriate primary health care is key to improving health outcomes amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Apunipima will be working with Queensland Health and the Royal Flying Doctor Service to ensure that we are collectively able to meet the health needs of Coen people. ”

The new centre will work closely with Coen Health Action Team and community leaders to ensure services reflect and respond to the health needs of the local community.

The Department of Health provided funding to Apunipima to build new primary health care centres and accommodation in Coen.

An official opening for the new Coen Primary Health Care Centre is yet to be scheduled

1.2 Institute for Urban Indigenous Health

Join our team!

We are hiring for multiple positions in management, administration, and clinical services.

Get all the info, including vacancies and how to apply at: http://www.iuih.org.au/Jobs/IUIH-Vacancies

2.NT : Katherine West Health Board

Last week we shared a great morning down a Hickey’s Beach with ladies from Timber Creek, talking about women’s health.

Thanks to KWHB Board Directors, Deb our AHP and Julie at CDP for support.

Follow on Facebook

3. Tasmania Aboriginal Centre and General Practice Training Tasmania.

CLOSING the gap on health disadvantage for Tasmanian Aboriginals requires highquality , innovative, regionally based training programs, says General Practice Training Tasmania.

One of the organisations responsible for training the state’s next generation of GPs yesterday held an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health training workshop at the piyura kitina/Risdon Cove Pyramids.

Last month, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull handed down the ninth annual Closing the Gap report, which tracked the progress made so far in curbing disadvantage among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people.

It found just one of seven targets set almost a decade ago to improve outcomes in indigenous health, education and employment was on track.

GPTT medical educator Maureen Ryan said hearing stories from members of the Tasmanian Aboriginal community had helped the more than 20 GP registrars who attended the workshop better understand their health care requirements.

“There’s still a 10-year lifeexpectancy gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians and the parameters that are being aimed for in the Government’s Closing the Gap initiative are not being met,” she said.

GP registrar Peta Gardam said medical information from the Close the Gap program was particularly helpful.

3.Tasmanian Aboriginal group welcomes council move to change Australia Day celebrations

Photo: About 1,000 members of Tasmania’s Aboriginal community protested at Parliament House on Australia Day. (ABC News: Pablo Vinales)

From the ABC report

Tasmania’s Aboriginal community will be consulted about shifting Australia Day celebrations, under changes being considered by Hobart City Council.

The first step would be to move the citizenship ceremony from January 26.

But not all are on board.

Lord Mayor Sue Hickey was one of the naysayers, but her amendment to lobby the Federal Government on the issue was supported.

Alderman Helen Burnet said January 26 was a day of mourning for many.

“We don’t want to be isolating people, it’s really important in the process of reconciliation for Tasmanians that we think about how we celebrate Australia day and when we celebrate Australia Day,” she said.

Last year, Kingborough Council announced it was shifting its Australia Day ceremony but said it was mainly due to a clash in venue availability.

The head of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, Heather Sculthorpe, welcomed the Hobart move and said Alderman Hickey was right to refer it on to the Commonwealth as it was their legislation which had to be changed.

“By Hobart and other councils setting the way like they have been, the pressure will really be on for [Premier] Will Hodgman to come out to support it would be a fantastic thing and it will make it all the quicker so that we can move on to something else more significant,” she said.

About 1,000 people attended this year’s “invasion day” rally in Hobart.

Ms Sculthorpe has again questioned the merits of Australia Day and said it was not about a date.

“It’s about what do people want to celebrate,” she said.

“The issue for the Aboriginal community is, what conditions have to be met before what people feel there is something to celebrate and we’re a way off from that.

“It’s not about when will we celebrate Australia Day it’s how do we reconcile, how do we form a proper relationship with the Aboriginal community.”

Hobart’s Lord Mayor came under fire late last year after the Museum of Old and New Art unveiled their vision for a former industrial area on Hobart’s waterfront, which included a large-scale memorial to Tasmanian Aboriginal warriors.

Alderman Hickey said she did not support a “guilt-ridden memorial” at Macquarie Point because she “did not kill the Aborigines”.

Ms Sculthorpe said she had since had discussions with the mayor but was yet to sit down with the Premier.

4. SA Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

The Tackling Tobacco Team can help you on your journey to quit smoking! To find out more visit http://tacklingtobacco.nunku.org.au/how-can-we-support-you/ or call us on 08 8406 1600

5 .Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services

VACCHO this week hosted the First Peoples Yarning Circle at the World Congress of Public Health in Melbourne (2,700 visitors) Pictured Aunty Joy who conducted the Welcome to Country : Photo below : Summer May Finlay

Strong Gunditjmara Artists & Weavers Bronwyn Razem & Vicki Couzens sharing culture in our Yarning Circle, FPNS #wcph2017 #Aboriginalhealth

6. NSW Galambila Aboriginal Medical Service Coffs Harbour

Acknowledging clients, staff, community & partners for their contribution and commitment to Close the Gap .

Dr Palmer has been with Galambila from the start. Without the Doctors real changes in our clients and community health would not be possible. We ask the Doctors at Galambila to nominate clients that have been dedicated to the management of their own health. Doctors Choice Award for Improved Health Rose Butterworth, Kim Pocock and Carol Mills

7.Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia

“You have to involve Aboriginal people in the process of decisions that impact on them,

Health was the biggest challenge for the Aoriginal community as there were large numbers of people with chronic disease, and said health minister Roger Cook wanted to see better results and accountability.”

After his opening address at the Aboriginal Health Council of WA’s conference, Mr Wyatt said all options were on the table for reforms, not ruling out abolishing the Department of Aboriginal Affairs or introducing a government advocate.

Reform of Indigenous affairs sector in WA

The West Australian minister for Aboriginal Affairs says he plans to reform the sector, and has not ruled out abolishing his own department.

Ben Wyatt, who made history as the first indigenous treasurer when Labor recently won the state election, said there was dissatisfaction as legislation was from the early 1970s and outdated.

“There’s frustration from Aboriginal people, from government, and indeed the public servants within the department,” he told AAP on Wednesday.

“The legislation no longer enables them do that they want to do, or what needs to be done.”

Members of the community expressed frustration at the department, with Mr Wyatt saying “paternalistic” legislation needed to better reflect the modern relationship between the indigenous and government, which he hoped to improve.

“You have to involve Aboriginal people in the process of decisions that impact on them,” he said.

Mr Wyatt said health was the biggest challenge for the aboriginal community as there were large numbers of people with chronic disease, and said health minister Roger Cook wanted to see better results and accountability.

The former Barnett government flagged the closure of up to 150 remote indigenous communities in WA in late 2014, which Mr Wyatt described as belligerent and disrespectful.

He hoped there would be relief that this was no longer happening, and that he would work to ensure Aboriginal communities had greater legal rights to live where they do.

“I’ll be a minister for a very short period of time in the grand sweep of history,” he said.

“If I can reform and update the legislation that governs the relationship between Aboriginal people and the government, I’ll be very pleased.”

Some of the highlights of the AHCWA 3 days summit

A fantastic Welcome To Country by Prof. Ted Wilkes and performance by Wadumbah alongside the Derbarl Yerrigan to open our WA ACCHO Sector Conference in Perth this week

8.ACT Canberra Winnunga AMS

Thank you Please share

NACCHO TOP10 #JobAlerts This week in Aboriginal Health : Doctors, Nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers Drug and Alcohol , Mental Health

Help Close the Gap and create healthy futures for our mob

This weeks featured jobs on our NACCHO Job Alert

Please note before completing a job application check with the ACCHO that job is still available

1.Nunkuwarrin Yunti SA Alcohol and Other Drug Work

2.Galangoor Duwalami Primary Health Care Service (2 GP’s)

3.Non-Member Board Director — Specialist in Primary Health Care

4.Aboriginal Health Worker, Mental Health – Walgett AMS

5. Aboriginal Health Worker – Drug & Alcohol – Walgett AMS

6.Remote Area Nurses & Nurse-Midwives Nganampa Health Council SA

7. General Practitioner – Full Time :Durri ACMS NSW

8.Nunkuwarrin Yunti Mental Health Recovery Program

9. Indigenous Health Promotion Officer Mawarnkarra Health Service WA

10.Urapuntja Health Service : 3 positions currently available : No closing date

Monash Health, Aboriginal Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Cadetship Program 2017

How to submit a Indigenous Health #jobalert ?

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholder

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

1.Nunkuwarrin Yunti SA Alcohol and Other Drug Work

Three new employment vacancies are available at Nunkuwarrin Yunti in the area of Alcohol and Other Drug Work

Our name was adopted from the dialects of the two largest clans in the southern region – Ngarrindjeri and Narungga to represent the community, the services and the spirit in which they are provided.

Nunkuwarrin Yunti means ‘Working Together – Doing Right Together’ and proclaims our belief of one community sharing a united vision for the future.

This simple belief has seen Nunkuwarrin Yunti at the forefront of initiatives to improve the health, life expectancy and lifestyle prospects for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We work with the community, our staff and other organisations to improve and expand our service delivery.

Three new employment vacancies are available at Nunkuwarrin Yunti in the area of Alcohol and Other Drug Work.

Case Manager – Harm Minimisation (Click Title)

Counsellor/Narrative Therapist – Harm Minimisation (Click title)

Senior Care Coordinator – Harm Minimisation (Click Title)

Applications Close COB Monday 10th April 2017.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are encouraged to apply.

2. Galangoor Duwalami Primary Health Care Service (2 GP’s)

Galangoor Duwalami Primary Healthcare Service is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled primary health care service, operating in both Hervey Bay and Maryborough, servicing the entire Fraser Coast area.

Galangoor Duwalami collaborates with health and well-being partner agencies to enable integrated continuity of care for the community, and continue to work to contribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health policy and program reform in Queensland to address the Burden of disease and Close the Gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health

General Practitioner (GP) two positions available

This is an exciting opportunity to join an innovative and flexible employer, enthusiastic and committed team and make a direct impact on improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Fraser Coast area.

The Practice:

Galangoor Duwalami (meaning a ‘happy meeting place’) is located on the Fraser Coast in sunny Queensland, with two clinics (Hervey Bay and Maryborough). Originally established in 2007 we offer a comprehensive suite of Health Services within the Fraser Coast region.

The Hervey Bay clinic is situated at the beachside, while a newly built practice in the heart of Historical Maryborough, offers exceptional facilities with 10 consulting rooms including a mums and bubs room, new equipment and large reception. The practice is Community Controlled and has a well-established clientele and reports indicate continued growth.

This is a rewarding prospect for a compassionate, engaging, visionary and thorough General Practitioner with an ability to work within a diverse interdisciplinary team exhibiting admirable communication skills.

Two positions available – 2 Part Time – hours negotiable OR 1 Full Time and 1 Part Time

Well balanced working environment – Monday to Friday from 0830 to 1700.

No on-call requirements

Competitive Salary Package

Salary packaging

Annual Leave plus Study Leave

9.5% Superannuation Entitlement

Key Requirements:

Must Have:

Qualified Medical Practitioner, holding current registration with the Medical Board of Australia
Eligible for unrestricted Medicare Provider Number

Download this Information GP Advertisement

Application Process:

A Position Description is available by email. All applications, including a covering letter, are to be e-mailed to: ann.woolcock@gdphcs.com.au

For further details regarding this position please contact Ann Woolcock on 07 41945554.

3.Non-Member Board Director — Specialist in Primary Health Care

For 40 years, Central Australian Aboriginal Congress has been a voice for Aboriginal people in Central Australia. Today, the organisation provides comprehensive primary health care to Aboriginal people living in Alice Springs and five remote communities in Central Australia.

As a Non-Member Board Director — Specialist in Primary Health Care, you will have the following attributes:

• Ability to identify key issues in relation to primary health care and have oversight of appropriate policies to define the parameters within which the organisation will operate.

• Knowledge, experience and networks in public health including health policy, community health and wellbeing, health needs analysis, health planning, resource allocation, analysis of population health trends, critical appraisal of published evidence and service delivery.

• Knowledge, experience and understanding of primary health care, for example nursing, allied health, medical practice and specialties and community health service provision.

• An understanding of clinical governance, knowledge and experience in clinical leadership, safety and quality standards of service delivery in primary health care, and associated performance measurement and reporting.

• Knowledge and experience in the strategic use and governance of information management and information technology, particularly in the context of health, tele-health, the collection of health data and electronic health records, and including personal information in privacy and security risk management.

• Ability to commit to the responsibilities including the time required by this role and an ability to contribute to continuing to build the capacity and governance of the organisation.

The responsibilities and duty of care for Non-Member Directors is equal to that of Member Directors. As a Non-Member Director, it is not a requirement that you reside in Central Australia.

Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply

Download the FACT and Contact

5.2 2017_Executive_ CAACAC Non-Member Directors Fact Sheet_Primary Health Care

For further information on these positions, please contact Donna Ah Chee, CEO Ph: 08 8951 4401

To submit your application, please ph: 08 8951 4401 or

email: directorate.execsec@caac.org.au

4.Aboriginal Health Worker, Mental Health – Walgett AMS

Walgett is a nestled in north-central New South Wales. With a population of 2,300, Walgett is a regional hub for the wool, wheat and cotton industries. It is also the gateway to the New South Wales opal fields. Walgett Shire offers a friendly relaxed lifestyle and there are many sporting and recreational pursuits available.
The Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service (WAMS) will work with the Aboriginal Communities of the Walgett Shire area to provide a quality culturally appropriate health service.
The organisation has grown from strength to strength and we have shown all members of the community we are here to help in any way we can.
This position is a permanent full time position and reports through to the Chronic Disease Manager. Duties will include, but not limited to:
 Maintain Confidentiality and Privacy at all times;
 Develop, coordinate and implement community development activities;
 Develop and facilitate cross-cultural awareness training;
 Coordinate referrals to specialist and other agencies services e.g. psychiatrists, psychologists etc.
 Working with WAMS team to research, develop and implement, monitor and evaluate the Aboriginal Mental Health program.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO CARRY OUT THIS ROLE:

Essential:
– Aboriginality: a genuine requirement of this position, as per section 14 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977;
– Certificate four in Aboriginal Mental Health and/or relevant qualification;
– Experience working with rural and remote communities;
– Knowledge of current Aboriginal health issues;
– Experience researching, designing and implementing primary health care strategies and an Aboriginal Health program
– Demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal Mental Health issues significant to Aboriginal people;

– Ability to liaise with both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organisations and individuals;
– Ability to organise, co-ordinate and facilitate workshops and conferences;
– Sound knowledge of the application of community protocols and the Aboriginal Health Information Guidelines; and
– Current NSW driver’s license.
Desirable:
– Knowledge of Walgett and surrounding communities’ services by WAMS;
– Experience working in mental health and/or related fields;
– First Aid certificates; and
– Ability to create and maintain a client data base, analyse client data and adapt program according to client and community needs.
If you’re looking for a change of pace and the opportunity to gain a unique rural experience, then this is the role for you. Applicants must send through a copy of their resume along with a cover letter outlining their experience. Additional training may be provided to the right candidate.

APPLY HERE

5. Aboriginal Health Worker – Drug & Alcohol – Walgett AMS

The Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service (WAMS) will work with the Aboriginal Communities of the Walgett Shire area to provide a quality culturally appropriate health service.

The organisation has grown from strength to strength and we have shown all members of the community we are here to help in any way we can.

This position is a permanent full time position and reports through to the Chronic Disease Manager. Duties will include, but not limited to:

Maintain Confidentiality and Privacy at all times;
Increase community awareness of the effects of the abuse of alcohol and other addictive substances;
Increase community awareness of all diseases caused by alcohol and other drug substances;
Plan, implement and evaluate culturally appropriate programs;
Work with judicial and police system to give support to clients requiring counselling and rehabilitation as directed by these agencies;
Assist with transportation to outsourced facilities; and
Work and assist Doctors and fellow team members at WAMS.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO CARRY OUT THIS ROLE:

Essential:

Aboriginality: a genuine requirement of this position, as per section 14 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977;
Certificate three (3) in Aboriginal Mental Health and/or relevant qualification;
Certificate four (4) in Drug and Alcohol;
Experience working with rural and remote communities;
Knowledge of current Aboriginal health issues;
Experience researching, designing and implementing primary health care strategies and an Aboriginal Health program
Demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal Mental Health issues significant to Aboriginal people;
Ability to liaise with both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organisations and individuals;
Ability to organise, co-ordinate and facilitate workshops and conferences;
Sound knowledge of the application of community protocols and the Aboriginal Health Information Guidelines;
Current NSW driver’s license;
Clean NCC; and
Clean WWCC.

Desirable:

Knowledge of Walgett and surrounding communities’ services by WAMS;
Experience working in mental health and/or related fields;
First Aid certificates; and
Ability to create and maintain a client data base, analyse client data and adapt program according to client and community needs.

The successful candidate will need to provide to us, prior to the commencement of work:

Clean WCC (Working with Children Check)
Clean NCC (National Crime Check)
Undergo a Pre-Employment Medical Clearance.

If you’re looking for a change of pace and the opportunity to gain a unique rural experience, then this is the role for you. Applicants must send through a copy of their resume along with a cover letter outlining their experience. Additional training may be provided to the right candidate.

APPLY HERE

6.Remote Area Nurses & Nurse-Midwives Nganampa Health Council SA

Remote Area Nurses & Nurse-Midwives

Exciting and varied opportunities for Registered Nurses and Nurse – Midwives to join a highly recognised Aboriginal Health Service. If you have recent Medical/ A&E and Clinical experience, are passionate about making a difference and looking to be remunerated for your efforts – then read on..

Your new company

Nganampa Health Council is an Aboriginal owned and controlled health organisation operating on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in the far north-western region of South Australia. The APY Lands cover roughly 103,000 square km, with a population of approx. 3,000 Anangu people. The region is freehold land controlled by the Anangu people.

Across this area, Nganampa Health operates seven clinics, an aged care facility and assorted health related programs including aged care, sexual health, environmental health, health worker training, dental, women’s health, male health, children’s health and mental health.

Nganampa Health Council is widely recognised as being an exemplar Aboriginal health service in the country. Their successes include significantly reducing the rates of sexually transmitted infections, increasing birth weights through their antenatal program, consistently keeping childhood immunisation rates at 100% and providing high quality residential and respite aged care at their Tjilpiku Pampaku Ngura aged care facility.

Further information can be found at www.nganampahealth.com.au

Your new career

Nganampa Health Council has opportunities for full-time clinic-based Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives to join their clinical teams, based in remote South Australia.

In these highly varied roles, you will be responsible for delivering primary health care according to the CARPA Standard Treatment Manual, and assisting in the early detection and management of chronic illness as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Working under the direction of the Medical Director and Clinical Service Manager, some of your areas of responsibility will include:

Working collaboratively with Medical Officers, Anangu Health Workers and other health staff to provide primary health care;
Treating acute illness and chronic medical conditions, and managing computerised recalls and patient follow-up care;
Child health monitoring and immunisations;
Patient health education;
Assessment and referral of social welfare issues;
Public health screening for STI, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis A, B & C;
Public health surveying and programs;
Antenatal and post natal care;
General education support for Anangu Health Workers; and
Day-to-day administration of the clinics.

On offer is an extremely attractive salary package circa $204,581 – $238,133, commensurate with remote area experience, (this includes estimated non-cash benefits of $37,615 – $47,141).

Successful candidates will also be supplied with rent-free modern accommodation, including all rent, electricity, gas and basic essentials! Benefits include:

District allowance;
Work allowance;
Superannuation;
Annual retention bonus;
Leave loading;
Annual airfare;
12 days study leave;
Recreation leave allowance;
12 weeks annual leave; and
Assistance with relocation costs (negotiable)

About you

Candidates need to be adaptable and flexible individuals who can display the initiative, discretion and cultural sensitivity needed to support and drive the organisation’s objectives and values. Your ability to communicate and participate effectively within a cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary health team will be a must.

Individuals who are open to change, accepting of Aboriginal people, comfortable living in a remote environment and who are willing to learn the ways of the people will be well suited to these roles. The ability to work under Aboriginal management and control will also be highly regarded, as will a demonstrated understanding of issues affecting Aboriginal health, the principles of Primary Health Care and relevant legislation. No two days will be the same and as a result, highly resourceful candidates will thrive!

To be considered, you will:

Be a Registered Nurse or an RN / Registered Midwife, and be registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA);
Have a minimum of three years post graduation/ post bridging course, along with recent acute Medical / A&E experience;
Have demonstrable experience working in a clinical environment and hospital-based general nursing experience in the past 5 years (both of which are essential);
Ideally hold post basic nursing qualifications in Emergency Care, Critical Care and or rural and remote area Nursing (not essential);
Be able to demonstrate a sound professional clinical background and an ability to manage their own tasks; and
Have a good degree of computer literacy — health records and organisational documentation is computerised

Midwives must have done some acute general work within the past 5 years.

These positions are based in busy community clinics that are open from 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday. Nurses do provide an after hours on-call service, and you will require advanced nursing clinical skills including excellent clinical assessment skills and confidence in managing diversity in presentations — trauma, acute and chronic medical conditions — across all age groups.

The successful candidates must also be willing to undergo a Police Check and a Working With Children Check. A manual driver’s licence is essential and it would be advantageous to have experience with 4WD vehicles, although a 2 day 4WD training course is provided in your orientation week.

If you have a diverse background in clinical experience, including in clinical acute medicine, A&E, paediatrics and/or Aboriginal health care – then we want to hear from you!

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

To receive regular updates from Nganampa Health including future job opportunities, follow Nganampa Health Council on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nganampa-Health-Council/306940186003663

Apply Now

7. General Practitioner – Full Time :Durri ACMS NSW

For over 30 years, Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service has provided essential and culturally appropriate medical, preventive, allied and oral health services to Aboriginal communities. Located in Kempsey and surrounds and the Nambucca Valley on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Durri is committed to making health care and education accessible to improve the health status and wellbeing of our communities.

Download the Selection Criteria Apply

Application Pack General Practitioner – Durri Nambucca

8.Nunkuwarrin Yunti Mental Health Recovery Program

Be part of a unique and significant Social Health program!

Enjoy fantastic work/life balance with generous leave entitlements!
Attractive remuneration package of $71,296 PLUS super and salary sacrifice!

About the Mental Health Recovery Program

Nunkuwarrin Yunti‘s Mental Health Recovery Program aims to provide members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with accessible, culturally safe and therapeutically sound psychological and counselling services. Mental Health Recovery team members comprise a mix of Psychological Services Providers including Registered Psychologists, Mental Health Accredited Social Workers, Social and Emotional Wellbeing Counsellors and related roles who provide one-to-one therapy and group therapy for our client group.

The Program has close links to Social Health Case Work services, community health promotion programs, clinical health programs and Stolen Generations support services.

About the Opportunity

Nunkuwarrin Yunti is seeking a Team Manager to lead their Mental Health Recovery Program on a full-time basis.

You’ll be leading a team of highly trained and qualified Psychological Service providers including Psychologists, Mental Health Social Workers and Counsellors across a small number of offices in metropolitan Adelaide, as well as a team member in Murray Bridge. This is a new team and some initial work to on-board new staff will be required.

Reporting to the Middle Manager – Social and Emotional Wellbeing, you will be responsible for delivering key services in alignment with funding agreements and service relevant legislation, such as privacy, mandatory reporting, and collection and reporting of service statistics. Core service delivery will comprise maximising the number of face to face counselling and psychological service sessions delivered to the target client groups, as well as some service promotion to key referral and client groups.

More specifically, some of your key duties will include:

Providing high level leadership and support to staff within the Mental Health Recovery Program;
Managing staff rosters, leave approvals, recruitment and induction, and regular performance reviews;
Supporting staff continuing professional development and operating as a resource to support team members in ethical and professional decision making;
Ensuring program outcomes are achieved and that all service delivery meets legislative requirements;
Maintaining strong communication pathways between internal and external stakeholders, in particular promoting the service and developing networks to build community support;
Providing input to the strategic direction of Nunkuwarrin Yunti through developing and implementing annual program action plans;
Creating and managing program budgets in collaboration with Middle Management and the Finance Manager; and
Reviewing and evaluating the program in order to complete reports to the funding body, and undertaking continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will hold a Diploma or higher in Management, Social Health or similar discipline. Professional registration with bodies such as AHPRA or AASW will be highly regarded, as will management experience within the Human Services sector, preferably within an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

An in-depth knowledge of contemporary challenges faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the history of past government policies designed to remove Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, alongside a demonstrated understanding of how to deliver accessible services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, will be paramount to your success. Additionally, the ability to effectively communicate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in a culturally sensitive manner will ensure your success in this position.

You’ll have strong experience in staff management, with the ability to encourage and motivate team members. Confidence in using the Microsoft Office Suite and client database systems is essential.

Please note: It is a requirement of this role that the successful candidate has a current driver’s licence, and is willing to undergo a National Police Check prior to employment with Nunkuwarrin Yunti.

To view the full position description, please click here.

For further information, telephone Chris Howland on 8406 1693 or 0401 615 511.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged to apply.

About the Benefits

The successful candidate will be rewarded with an attractive salary circa $71,296, dependent on skills and qualifications, plus super. This package provides you with excellent flexible salary sacrificing options which will allow you to significantly increase your take home pay.

Your dedication to the organisation will also be rewarded with generous leave allowances, including 7 days paid leave over the Christmas period in addition to your four weeks of annual leave!

By joining the supportive Nunkuwarrin Yunti team, you will receive career and personal growth opportunities within a multicultural workforce, and ongoing professional development and training. The benefits of working for South Australia’s largest Aboriginal primary healthcare service will become apparent as you experience genuine opportunities to advance your career within the organisation!

Don’t miss this opportunity to give back to the community and enjoy a rewarding challenge – Apply Now!

Please Note: Applications will be reviewed by COB 17th April, 2017.

Apply Now

Added

Nunkuwarrin Yunti has multiple positions on our Chronic Conditions Management team.

Here is the link to the advertisement.

https://www.seek.com.au/job/33171419?type=standard&tier=no_tier&pos=1&whereid=3000&userqueryid=633e3c0a1b7c540e57937f39f915feb3-1213354&ref=beta

9. Indigenous Health Promotion Officer Mawarnkarra Health Service WA

We are seeking an Indigenous Health Promotions Officer to enhance the holistic primary health care services provided to the Aboriginal people of the West Pilbara, by undertaking activities aimed to develop & implement a coordinated team-based approach to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander health, as well as facilitate working relationships and communication exchange between mainstream organisations, Aboriginal Medical Services, and their peak bodies.

The successful applicant must be willing to travel on a regular basis therefore will need to hold a “C” class driver’s license. The skills required include the ability to complete reporting duties into various computer programs, taking initiative and working within a team environment. Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and organisational skills is also mandatory. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants are encouraged to request a copy of the Position Description and Selection Criteria from our Human Resources team on (08)9182 0801 or via emailmailto:hrofficer@mhs.org.au

10.Urapuntja Health Service : 3 positions currently available

The Urapuntja Community is situated on the Sandover Highway some 280 km north east of Alice Springs. Urapuntja Community comprises 16 Outstation communities spread out over some 3230 square km of desert. There are some 900 people who are mainly Anmatyerre and Alyawarra speaking people. Distances to the outstations vary from 5 to 100 kms from the clinic.

Note to above :

Urapuntja Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating 40 years of service. To mark the occasion we are planning events on the 28th of July 2017. We are also on the hunt for photo’s and stories documenting our history and would greatly appreciate you forwarding this to anyone you may know that has contributed to the success of our service.

For further information and to register interest please contact 40years@urapuntja.org.au

Urapuntja Health Service developed from many years of negotiations by Aboriginal people to have their own health service.

Urapuntja is a community controlled health service with a Board of Directors which is elected from and by the community at the Annual General Meeting held each year. The Directors meets regularly to discuss issues and make decisions relevant to the Organisation.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Remote Area Midwife
Location Amengernternenh Community, Utopia, NT
12 month limited term contract full time (38 hours p.w.)
Download Job and Person Specification

General Practitioner
Location Amengernternenh Community, Utopia, NT
12 month limited term contract full time (38 hours p.w.)
Download Job and Person Specification

Remote Area Nurse
Location Amengernternenh Community, Utopia, NT
12 month limited term contract full time (38 hours p.w.)
Download Job and Person Specification

Monash Health, Aboriginal Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Cadetship Program 2017

Monash Health provides a world of healthcare across south eastern Melbourne, uniquely integrating primary, secondary and tertiary health services, as well as world-renowned research and teaching facilities in one organisation.

Our health service provides access to public health services for a greater community of 1.3 million residents or 24 per cent of Victoria’s population. Monash Health also has a wider official specialist role for greater Melbourne, regional Victoria and interstate in such specialties as paediatrics, cardiology, transplants and neonatal intensive care, with extensive university affiliations.

More than 15,000 staff work at more than 40 care locations across south eastern Melbourne, including Monash Medical Centre, Moorabbin Hospital, Dandenong Hospital, Casey Hospital, Kingston Centre, Cranbourne Centre, and an extensive network of rehabilitation, community health and mental health facilities.

The 2017 Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program offers an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student in their 2nd or 3rd year of a bachelor degree in nursing or midwifery or 3rd or 4th year of a combined Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Midwifery/Other combined or 2^nd or subsequent year of an allied health degree the chance to undertake their studies whilst working at a Victorian public health service.

These positions are designed to work around your studies and introduce you to the important work you will do in your chosen health care field. With cultural mentoring plus supervision provided to you by a Registered Nurse/Midwife or Allied Health Clinician, you will grow your knowledge and confidence whilst working within the hospital or community setting creating a broader scope of possibilities upon graduation.

A cadetship allows you to work a minimum of eight weeks (forty shifts) across 12 months worked flexibly around your studies and other commitments with the potential for extension of your contract for subsequent years of study.

Cadetship work rotations will be developed in consultation with the successful cadet to match rosters to individual learning goals and preferences where possible.

The Cadetship program offers:

Salary for a minimum of 40 shifts of work placement
Clinical support and mentoring
Subject to availability the possibility of ongoing employment in a graduate program
As a Monash Health cadet you may be eligible to apply for the Indigenous Cadetship Scheme with the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet for study allowance of $600 per fortnight, $500 per semester for books and equipment. Please see https://employment.gov.au/indigenous-cadetship-support-ics for more information.

To be eligible you must be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student currently enrolled in full-time study in Nursing and or Midwifery or allied health and live in Victoria.

For more information about the position, please see the Position Description attached or to apply for this position please click here.

**All employment with Monash Health is subject to and conditional upon a satisfactory clearance of Working with Children Check and Police Check.

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and #Nutrition : FYI delegates #WCPH2017 Aboriginal traditional foods key role in protecting against #chronicdisease

“We have long understood that native animal and plant foods are highly nutritious.

There is no evidence that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people had diabetes or cardiovascular disease whilst maintaining a diet of traditional foods, and it has been shown that reverting to a traditional diet can improve health.

In addition to demonstrating significant health benefits, traditional foods remained an integral part of identity, culture and country for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, while also alleviating food insecurity in remote communities.”

Menzies researcher and lead author Megan Ferguson see research paper in full below

Photo above : Frank told us how the ‘old people’, which literally means his ancestors, lived under the trees, gathered food and fished in the swamp. He said that during the dry, they used to build a sort of rock stepping-stone bridge to access the island in the swamp where they would gather magpie goose eggs.

Photo above : With a focus to improve community nutrition, over 2000 bush tucker trees and conventional fruits were planted at the Barunga Community, south of Katherine.

Aboriginal people have been using bush tucker for over 50,000 years, but it was hoped the plantation would lure more children onto a free feed of fruit, instead of a portion of chips. Some of the bush tucker fruits being planted include the Black Plum, Bush Apple, Cocky Apple, Red Bush Apple, and White Currant

” The bush tucker diet was high in nutritional density, offering good levels of protein, fibre, and micronutrients. It was low in sugar and glucose, and lower in insulin than similar western foods, and the hunter-gatherer lifestyle meant plenty of physical activity. Some animal foods such as witchetty grubs and green ants were high in fat, but most native land animals were lean, especially when compared with the domesticated animals eaten today.

It was this knowledge of the land that sustained the Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory for tens of thousands of years “

Your Complete Guide to Bush Tucker in the Northern Territory

Traditional food trends in remote Northern Territory communities

The majority of Aboriginal people living in remote Northern Territory communities are regularly using traditional foods in their diets according to research from Menzies School of Health Research published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health see below

The paper, Traditional food availability and consumption in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory reports that a nutritious diet including the consumption of traditional foods plays a key role in protecting against chronic disease for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote communities.

‘Surveys conducted in remote Northern Territory (NT) communities revealed almost 90% of people consumed a variety of traditional foods each fortnight.

‘In relation to food insecurity we also found that 40% of people obtained traditional food when they would otherwise go without food due to financial hardship or limited access to stores,’ Ms Ferguson said.

The list of traditional food reported during the research is extensive and includes a range of native animal foods including echidna, goanna, mud mussel, long-neck turtle and witchetty grubs and native plant foods including green plum, yam and bush onion.

The 20 remote NT communities surveyed reported that traditional foods were available year round.

‘There is still much to be learnt about the important contribution traditional foods makes to nutrition and health outcomes. We need to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders to understand more about contemporary traditional food consumption. This is crucial to informing broader policy that affects where people live, how they are educated, employment and other livelihood opportunities,’ Ms Ferguson said.

The article will be available at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1753-6405

Traditional food availability and consumption in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, Australia

Objective: To explore availability, variety and frequency consumption of traditional foods and their role in alleviating food insecurity in remote Aboriginal Australia.

Methods: Availability was assessed through repeated semi-structured interviews and consumption via a survey. Quantitative data were described and qualitative data classified.

Results: Aboriginal and non-Indigenous key informants (n=30 in 2013; n=19 in 2014) from 20 Northern Territory (NT) communities participated in interviews. Aboriginal primary household shoppers (n=73 in 2014) in five of these communities participated in a survey. Traditional foods were reported to be available year-round in all 20 communities. Most participants (89%) reported consuming a variety of traditional foods at least fortnightly and 71% at least weekly. Seventy-six per cent reported being food insecure, with 40% obtaining traditional food during these times.

Conclusions: Traditional food is consumed frequently by Aboriginal people living in remote NT.

Implications for public health: Quantifying dietary contribution of traditional food would complement estimated population dietary intake. It would contribute evidence of nutrition transition and differences in intakes across age groups and inform dietary, environmental and social interventions and policy. Designing and conducting assessment of traditional food intake in conjunction with Aboriginal leaders warrants consideration.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians have experienced a rapid nutrition transition since colonisation by Europeans 200 years ago, similar to that experienced by other Indigenous populations globally.¹ The traditional food system provided a framework for society and was interwoven with culture, a framework that is now eroded by a food system with no distinct cultural ties or values.² Early reports of Aboriginal people prior to European contact indicate that they were lean and healthy, attributable to an active lifestyle and a nutrient-dense diet characterised by high protein, polyunsaturated fat, fibre and slowly digested carbohydrates.³ The diet was sourced from a wide range of uncultivated plant foods and wild animals and was influenced by the seasons and geographical location; although there were differences in the food sources by location, there were similarities in the overall nutrient profile.^3,4 Since colonisation, this nutritious diet has been systematically replaced by high intakes of refined cereals, added sugars, fatty (domesticated) meats, salt and low intakes of fibre and several micronutrients.^5–7

There is no evidence that Aboriginal people maintaining traditional diets had diabetes or cardiovascular disease.⁴ However, the integration of non-traditional foods into the contemporary diet of Aboriginal Australians has led to an excessive burden of lifestyle-related chronic diseases.³ A nutritious diet, such as that afforded by the consumption of traditional foods, plays a key role in protecting against these conditions. Short-term reversion to a traditional diet has demonstrated significant weight loss, improvement in risk factors of diabetes and cardiovascular disease and improvements in glucose tolerance and other abnormalities related to type 2 diabetes mellitus among a small group of Aboriginal Australians.^8,9

High levels and a wide variety of polyunsaturated fatty acids, in the context of overall lower fat content, found in native animal foods are one of the benefits of a traditional diet; reported to reduce the risk of developing obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases.^3,4Traditional foods remain an integral part of the contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diet strongly linked to identity, culture and country. An analysis of national data collected in 2008 reported that 72% of participants aged over 15 years living in remote communities reported having harvested wild foods in the past 12 months;¹⁰ and yet there is a dearth of information on the contribution of traditional foods to the contemporary diet of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.^7,11 Most available information is also limited to describing harvesting behaviours and preferences.¹¹ A recent environmental study, for example, in two Australian tropical river catchments reported more than one harvesting trip per fortnight for households in which 42 different animal and plant species were collected over a two-year period. This study also described the food-sharing networks that are likely to play a crucial role in alleviating food insecurity;¹² of which 31% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote communities report to experience.¹³Some researchers estimate that more than 90% of foods are purchased and traditional foods contribute less than 5% to dietary energy intake,⁵ others argue that in some contexts the proportion of purchased foods is much lower.¹⁴

This variation likely relates to the diverse study contexts, including where people live, with higher intakes of traditional foods suggested to be consumed in small outstations rather than communities and townships.¹⁴ Until recently, most estimates of population level dietary intake have been limited to store-purchased food and drinks,^5–7 an extremely valuable source of data, though one the authors acknowledge is limited by a lack of information on traditional food intake. The 2011–13 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NATSINPAS), which included a 24-hour dietary recall, provided the first set of dietary intake data of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people nationally, though it did not aim to provide an estimate of traditional food intake.¹³This paper explores informant interview and self-report data relating to the: i) availability, ii) frequency and iii) variety of traditional food consumption. It also reports on the role of traditional food in alleviating food insecurity. For this study, traditional food included all native and introduced animal and plant foods procured for consumption. It was conducted as part of the SHOP@RIC study.¹⁵

Methods

Sample

A survey of contextual factors, defined as factors that may influence food purchases from the community store, was conducted in each of the 20 communities participating in the SHOP@RIC study, in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia.¹⁵ This included a rapid appraisal of traditional food availability through an interview with two key informants who had resided in the community for the previous 12 months. The study was not designed to collect comprehensive data on seasonal availability of traditional foods.

The cohort participating in the customer survey of the SHOP@RIC study¹⁵ was drawn from five very remote Aboriginal communities in the NT randomly selected from 20 study communities. All five communities had one food store, most had community-based food programs such as school nutrition and aged care meal programs and all were considered to have access to a traditional food supply from their surrounding lands. Households in each of the five communities were randomly selected and an eligible adult (i.e. community resident, plans to reside in the community for 12 months, >18 years, purchases food from the community store, and is the primary shopper) was invited to participate in a series of three surveys; pre-, post- and six-months post intervention. On completion of each survey, a $20 gift of fruit, vegetables and water was provided. The study aimed to include 150 customers in the cohort.

Data collection

The survey of contextual factors was conducted in English by a research team member, either in person or by telephone, at a time convenient to the key informant. Data were collected at two time points. As early as possible in 2014 and 2015, participants were interviewed about events in the previous year, including traditional food hunted or gathered. Initially, contact was made with the Shire/Council Services Manager of each community, who was invited to participate and recommend another suitable local person to complete the interview. The manager was selected due to their overall knowledge of a broad range of factors affecting store purchases, including population movement, community income and provision of essential services. If this manager could not be contacted, contact was made with someone in the community who was already associated with the main project to determine the most suitable people in the community to respond to these questions.

The customer survey was conducted by a research team, which included an Aboriginal community-based researcher trained in the conduct of the study. Interviews were conducted in English, with translation provided by the local researcher where necessary. The third survey (six months post intervention) was conducted from May 2014 to December 2014, in one community every two months in line with the main study design.¹⁵ This survey included a measure of frequency and variety consumption of traditional food in the preceding two weeks and questions to elicit information on the role of these foods in alleviation of food insecurity, the results of which are presented in this paper. A short script introduced the set of questions, noting that these included all hunted and gathered foods, which might be referred to by participants as traditional foods or bush foods, and included introduced species. The questions and response options were: How often do you eat traditional foods? (never, 1 day a fortnight, 1 day a week, 2–3 days a week, on most days, everyday). What type of traditional foods have you eaten? In the last 12 months, were there any times that you ran out of food, and couldn’t afford to buy more? (yes, no). If yes, how often did this happen? (once per week, once every 2 weeks, once per month, don’t know). Are there days when you don’t have enough food and feel hungry? (yes, no). What things can you do to get food on these days? Pictorial resources, with examples of foods known to be consumed across Central Australia and the Top End of the NT, grouped into similar food types, served as prompts. This study did not aim to collect data at the species level as nutrient analysis was not planned. These measures were based on a systematic review of the literature and expert consensus, and were pilot tested in line with the development of the overall customer survey.

Data analysis

The data from the contextual factor survey was entered into an Access database and exported to Excel for analysis. One author (CG) collated the data and verified with MF. Traditional food sources recalled being available over the calendar year and/or at different seasonal periods were described. The quantitative data from the customer survey were described, using Stata Version 14.0 (Stata, College Station, Texas, USA). The qualitative data from the customer survey were managed in an Access database and exported to Excel. One author (CB) allocated each individual food to one of eight categories,¹⁶ clarifying any difficult classification of foods with JB and MF.

Ethics

The study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the NT Department of Health and Menzies School of Health Research, the Central Australian Human Research Ethics Committee and Deakin University Human Research Ethics Committee. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Results

Participants

At least one interview was conducted in each of the 20 study communities for the years 2013 or 2014. In 2013, 30 participants across 19 of the 20 study communities contributed to the contextual data; the participants held roles in the local council, government welfare agency, store, health centre, aged care facility, school and training and employment program. In 2014, 19 participants across 15 of the 20 study communities contributed to the repeat survey, holding roles in the local council, government welfare agency, store, health centre, community men’s program, research institute and training and employment program or were a community resident not in paid employment. In some cases, mobility from employed roles and from the community prevented repeat interview with the same informants each year.

Seventy-three participants aged 18 years or over, most of whom were female (97%), over the age of 35 years (69%) and not in paid employment (56%) contributed to the third customer survey. The participants differed marginally from the original cohort (92% female, 64% >35 years of age, 62% not in paid employment).

Annual availability of traditional food

Traditional foods were consistently reported for all 20 communities to be available year round. Informants reported hunting activity, with someone from all communities recalling a variety of animal foods that were available over the year or that hunting and fishing occurred. Informants from 15 communities across the Top End and Central Australia reported a variety of plant foods available in the previous 12 months. In four of the five communities where no plant foods were reported, it should be noted that data were only able to be collected for one of the two time points.

The survey did not intend to collect data on environmental or other impacts on the availability of the traditional food supply. It is worth noting that informants from three Top End communities and one customer survey participant from a fourth Top End community reported that goanna were in limited numbers or no longer available due to the impact of cane toads. In two Top End communities it was said that turkey were scarce or no longer available and in one of these communities, that the availability of yams had reduced due to environmental damage caused by introduced animals.

Frequency of traditional food consumption

Most (89%) participants reported consuming traditional foods on at least a fortnightly basis, in the two weeks preceding the survey. Seventy-one per cent of participants reported consuming traditional foods at least weekly.

Variety of traditional foods consumed

The variety of traditional foods reported to be available across 20 communities and consumed by participants in the five communities is reported in Table 1. There were a range of different native animal and plant foods and a smaller number of introduced animal foods recalled.

Table 1. List of the variety^a of traditional foods reported to be available in communities and to be consumed in the preceding two weeks by a customer cohort.

	Community data set (n=20)	Participant data set (n=73)
a: Foods listed as per participant response to an open-ended question which did not specify how to identify foods (e.g. as food category [e.g. seafood], food [e.g. fish] or species [e.g. barramundi]). The adjective ‘bush’ and ‘wild’ was provided at times with some foods (e.g. bush turkey and turkey). Occasionally participants used both local and English language; only the English language name is reported here. b: Echidna was often referred to as porcupine; buffalo as bullocky; cow as beef, cattle or killer. c: The term shellfish was not used by participants in the customer cohort.
Animals
Native land animals	Bandicoot, carpet snake, duck (diving duck), echidna,^b emu, goanna (perentie), goose (magpie goose), honey, honey ant, kangaroo, lizard, possum, turkey, wallaby	Black-headed snake, duck, echidna,^b emu, goanna, goose, kangaroo, turkey
Introduced land animals	Buffalo,^b cow,^b pig	Buffalo,^b cow,^b pig
Fish or seafood	Crab (mud crab), crocodile, crocodile egg, dugong, fish (barramundi, black bream, bream, catfish, fresh- and saltwater fish), shellfish (large creek mussel, long bum, mud mussel, mussel, oyster), prawn, stingray, turtle (long-neck turtle, sea turtle, short-neck turtle), turtle egg, water goanna	Crab (mud crab), fish (barramundi, black bream, catfish, red snapper), mangrove worm, shellfish^c (cone shell, long bum, mud mussel, oyster, periwinkle), stingray, turtle (long-neck turtle, sea turtle, short-neck turtle), turtle egg, water goanna
Witchetty grub	Witchetty grubs	Witchetty grub
Sugar bag		Sugar bag
Plants
Fruit or berry	Apple, banana, berry (blackcurrant, conga berry), cashew tree fruit, fruit (not specified), plum (black plum, green plum and sugar plum), sultana	Apple, banana, berry, plum (black plum, green plum), raisin, sultana, tomato
Yam or root vegetables	Potato, yam	Potato, yam (budgu)
Other plants	Bean, onion, tomato	Bulb (sandy beach bulb), onion
Seed or nut	Cashew tree nut	Kora (seed)

The role of traditional food consumption in alleviating food insecurity

Most participants (76%) reported experiencing food insecurity. Of the coping strategies identified, 40% related to obtaining traditional food during times they went without food and 53% were borrowing food or money during these times.

Discussion

This exploratory study demonstrates that traditional food makes an important contribution to the contemporary diet of Aboriginal people living in remote NT communities. In 20 remote communities, traditional foods were reported to be available year round. A high frequency and wide variety of traditional foods were reported to be consumed by participants across five remote communities. In this exploratory study, more animal foods than plant foods were recalled to have been consumed and commonly a few animal foods predominated. Accessing traditional foods was reported to be a means of alleviating food insecurity for almost half the people who experienced food insecurity.

There are limited records of the traditional diet of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people prior to European colonisation. Available reports describe gender roles, with women providing daily sustenance through collecting plant foods and small animals and men hunting large animals on a less regular basis, with the balance of plant and animal foods determined by factors including location and season.³ Studies of Canadian Aboriginal people suggest a high intake of traditional animal foods as part of the contemporary diet.^17,18 This study suggests that an understanding of the contribution that animal (native and introduced) and plant foods make to the contemporary diet among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Australia is warranted.

The frequent self-reported consumption of animal sources of traditional foods, suggests that contemporary population-level dietary assessment using store purchasing data has the potential to over-estimate nutrient deficiencies, particularly of protein, a concern we have previously raised.^7,19 In Aboriginal populations elsewhere, it is estimated that traditional foods might contribute anywhere from 10% to 36% of energy and disproportionately to protein and other micronutrients,^17,20–23 representing an important dietary contribution. Even weekly or fortnightly consumption of a nutrient-dense food, such as that reported to be consumed in this study, is likely to make an important contribution to the diet.¹¹ Introduced land animal foods, such as buffalos, cattle and pigs, were reported to be hunted and consumed by participants. The contribution of introduced land animals may be influenced by availability and in some areas may be well integrated into the traditional food system.⁵ In the absence of volume consumption data, it is not possible to draw conclusions on the dietary contribution of introduced land animals. Although these foods contribute to dietary protein intake, the higher quantity of fat and poorer fatty acid profile, compared with native animal foods, is worth noting.³

We have demonstrated that it is possible to measure frequency consumption and to some extent variety of traditional foods consumed – in fact, our impression was that people enjoyed talking about these foods. We acknowledge the limitations of traditional dietary assessment methods, including additional challenges in remote contexts such as the practice of sharing community meals,^12,24–27 though also consider that attributes such as the high regard given to traditional food, may aid assessment.^24,27,28 Studies have demonstrated how standard tools can be modified to assess individual dietary intake with Aboriginal populations²⁹ and lessons can be learnt from previous dietary survey work in remote Australian Aboriginal communities.^15,26

Comprehensive assessment of traditional food consumption would serve a number of purposes. These data would provide an understanding of the different types of traditional foods consumed and the contribution they make to the contemporary diet of Aboriginal people across Australia. This information would assist in developing targeted strategies to ensure sustainable access and increased consumption of traditional foods. This study was not designed to examine differences in consumption of traditional foods across age, gender and other population groups. International studies in Aboriginal populations have found higher intakes of nutrient-poor store foods in young people and higher intakes of traditional foods in older people.^{17,22,23,30,31} In addition to contributing to improved health through dietary intake, the socio-cultural contribution and opportunity for physical activity that traditional foods provide is important to recognise.^21,32,33 The impact that climate change, changes in the natural environment and development policies regarding land and sea use may have on traditional food use and thus health and wellbeing is critical to understand.^12,32,34 Although not designed to collect information on environmental and other impacts on traditional food, this study suggests that introduced animals are affecting the availability of small animal and plant foods, at least in the Top End of the NT.

In addition to being nutritionally superior, traditional foods are considered to be a low-monetary form of sustenance, important in a context where people generally have low incomes and where the cost of food is high.^12,18,20,35 Similar to our findings, 40% of coastal urban-dwelling Aboriginal people reported increased access of wild resources at times of financial hardship.³² In a small Western Australian outstation, hunting for various types of wild foods has been shown to respond differently to market and economic scarcity.³³ The harvest of traditional foods and food sharing networks reduce the reliance on the market economy,^10,12 important in a context where high numbers of people report to be food insecure. Others share our opinion that further understanding the role of traditional foods in the diet and in alleviating food insecurity³⁶ is crucial in an environment where few, if any, significant changes are occurring in terms of the high cost of food and prevailing low-income levels.

Data regarding the contribution of traditional foods in the diet and role in livelihoods of Aboriginal people living in remote communities will be important in relation to broader environmental and social policy making. Evidence of the contribution of traditional foods to the contemporary diet of remote Aboriginal people is crucial to informing broader government policy that affects where people live, how they are educated, employment and other livelihood opportunities.¹⁰ It has been suggested that the use of traditional foods may be gaining interest nationally and internationally, and in addition to being good for human and environmental health, could provide economic and employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.³⁷ There is a developing interest in sustainability of traditional foods in environmental protection efforts,¹² such as working with Aboriginal people to develop adaption strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on the environment and traditional food supply.^32,34 Similarly, traditional food data are used internationally to maintain and improve availability and access to traditional foods as a result of global warming and environmental insults, such as contamination.^17,18,21

There are three limitations related to our survey methodology. First, this study relies on self-report data, which is considered to be biased by recall and reporting. To address this, the data were collected through a facilitated recall methodology,³⁸ which improves recall through the use of locally relevant prompts and questions.³⁹ While respondents were asked to recall intake in the preceding two weeks only, it is possible that foods consumed beyond this timeframe were recalled. Second, the individual dietary data was collected from participants in only five remote NT communities; however, these were randomly selected from a larger sample of 20 communities and were spread across the NT. Third, the data were collected based on recall of a two-week period from participants in each community. Normally, frequency consumption data would be collected over a longer period to account for factors such as seasonality, although it has been collected in some studies for shorter periods.¹⁷ It was not within the scope of this study to collect longer-term data. The data were, however, collected over a 10-month period from the five communities, two months apart and have been supported by annual availability of traditional foods data from key informants across 20 communities. The key limitation in relation to the semi-structured interviews was that the key informants did not always include an Aboriginal person from each community and so reports of annual availability of traditional foods are likely to be conservative.

Implications

Although focused on availability, frequency and variety, this study provides an important step in improving non-Aboriginal knowledge of the contribution of traditional food in the contemporary diet of Aboriginal Australians living in remote Australia. This study suggests that it is possible to collect data regarding the contribution of traditional foods to diet. These data would complement population-level data collected through community store sales. Data of the nutrient profiles of many traditional foods exists and continues to be built on in Australia. Through a strong collaboration with Aboriginal people, methods for conducting individual dietary assessment of traditional food intake could be developed, which could include methodologies such as repeated 24-hour recall, visual recall⁴⁰ and food frequency questionnaires, resulting in validated tools for ongoing use in this context. Our limited data, combined with national and international evidence suggest that priorities should include understanding differences across ages, gender, education and employment status and across remote, regional and urban areas in Australia. It is crucial that these processes align with developments in the broader environmental and societal work in this area.

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to community residents who provided data and acknowledge that the ownership of Aboriginal knowledge and cultural heritage is retained by the informant. The authors thank Prof Kylie Ball, Anthony Gunther, Elaine Maypilama and Carrie Turner who contributed to the development of the customer survey, those who assisted with pilot testing the customer survey and Federica Barzi who assisted with analyses. The Stores Healthy Options Project in Remote Indigenous Communities was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (1024285). The contents of the published material are solely the responsibility of the individual authors and do not reflect the views of the NHMRC. Julie Brimblecombe is supported through a National Heart Foundation Fellowship (100085

Aboriginal Health Events / Workshops #SaveADate #NAIDOC2017 Awards close 7 April #NACCHOAGM17 and Members Meeting

Awards Funding $ and surveys OPEN

April 7 National NAIDOC Committee Award closing date to 2:00pm (AEST) Friday 7 April 2017 see below for full info

April : NACCHO #IPAG Aboriginal Health Consultation Mylife #MyLead Consultation opens for #NATSIHP : Closes 30 April

April – May : NEW : Get NDIS Ready with a Roadshow NSW Launched

Events and Workshops

26- 29 April The 14 th National Rural Health Conference Cairns

29 April:14th World Rural Health Conference Cairns

10 May: National Indigenous Human Rights Awards

23-25 May Conference Aboriginal People with Disability

26 May :National Sorry day 2017

27 May to June 3 National Reconciliation Week

6 June : Stomp out the Gap : Cathy Freeman Foundation

1-2 July Aboriginal Health Conference Perth

2-9 July NAIDOC WEEK

7 July Awabakal 40th Anniversary Dinner

8-9 August 2nd World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Viral Hepatitis Alaska in August 2017

10 October CATSINAM Professional Development Conference Gold Coast

30 October –2 Nov NACCHO AGM Members Meeting Canberra Details to be released soon

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

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

Colin Cowell NACCHO Media Mobile 0401 331 251

Send to NACCHO Media mailto:nacchonews@naccho.org.au

April 7 National NAIDOC Committee Award closing date to 2:00pm (AEST) Friday 7 April 2017

The National NAIDOC Committee have extended the 2017 National NAIDOC Award nominations to encourage more people to acknowledge the contributions and talents of outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals by nominating them for a 2017 National NAIDOC Award.

Winning a National NAIDOC Award can have a significant impact not only the winner but also their family and the wider community. Award winners will have the honour of being celebrated at the highly prestigious National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony and Ball to be held in Cairns on Saturday, 1 July 2017.

Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people contribute to Australian society through music, art, culture, community, education, environment, sport, employment and politics. If you know someone who you think deserves an award, the Committee encourages you to nominate them in one of the ten categories covering the fields of art, education and training, sport, environment and leadership.

The National NAIDOC Committee wish to extend the nomination closing date to 2:00pm (AEST) Friday 7 April 2017. Nomination forms can be found at http://www.naidoc.org.au

NAIDOC Week 2017 will run nationally from 2-9 July and is an occasion for all Australians to come together to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – the oldest continuing cultures on the planet.

The 2017 theme – Our Languages Matter – aims to emphasise and celebrate the unique and essential role that Indigenous languages play in cultural identity, linking people to their land and water and in the transmission of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, spirituality and rites, through story and song.

For more information including competition and nomination forms and ideas on how to celebrate, visit www.naidoc.org.au

April : NACCHO #IPAG Aboriginal Health Consultation Mylife #MyLead Consultation opens for #NATSIHP : Closes 30 April

My Life, My Lead is a new online public consultation portal to highlight the issues that support or impede Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to have good health.

The Minister for Indigenous Health, Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said that the launch of the new portal will give more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people an opportunity to lead the discussion about the life they live now, and the life they want in the future for themselves, their families and their communities.

The Australian Government is committed to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and communities, and other stakeholders to improve progress against the goals to improve health outcomes for Indigenous Australians, and is welcoming participation in the IPAG Consultation 2017 from a broad range of stakeholders.

You can have your say by taking part in the online submission to the IPAG consultation 2017.

The online submission will be open from Wednesday 8 March 2017 and will close 11.59 pm Sunday 30 April 2017.

April – May : Get NDIS Ready with a Roadshow NSW Launched

The Every Australian Counts team will be hitting the road from March – May presenting NDIS information forums in the NSW regional areas where the NDIS will be rolling out from July.

We’ll be covering topics including:

What the NDIS is, why we need it and what it means for you
The changes that the NDIS brings and how they will benefit you
How to access the NDIS and get the most out of it

These free forums are designed for people with disability, their families and carers, people working in the disability sector and anyone else interested in all things NDIS.

Please register for tickets and notify the team about any access requirements you need assistance with. All the venues are wheelchair accessible and Auslan interpreters can be available if required. Please specify any special requests at the time of booking.

Find the team in the following locations:

Click on a link above to register online now!

Every Australian Counts is the campaign that brought about the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Now it is a reality, the team are focused on engaging and educating the disability sector and wider Australian community about the benefits of the NDIS and the options and possibilities that it brings.

7 April National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers

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

Register

7 April Perth Register Free Entry Here

11 April Broome Register Free Entry Here

28 June Cairns Register Free Entry Here

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

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

Current topics on the agenda:

Who is NATSIHWA? – an update on what is happening on a national level.

NATSIHWA Membership Benefits – Why join? Access to online members portal, web resources, weekly eNewsletter and social media.

Scope of Practice – An update on the development of the national framework for the scope of practice for ATSIHW’s and ATSIHP’s.

AHPRA – Who is AHPRA and what do they do? Why register with AHPRA? CPD requirements of ongoing registration.

Modern Award – An update on the progress of the modern award process with Fair Work Australia.

Workforce Development – Career development, training opportunities, CPD Points, GNARTN Tool, Scholarships.

26- 29 April The 14 th National Rural Health Conference Cairns

INFO Register

29 April : 14th World Rural Health Conference Cairns

The conference program features streams based on themes most relevant to all rural and remote health practitioners. These include Social and environmental determinants of health; Leadership, Education and Workforce; Social Accountability and Social Capital, and Rural Clinical Practices: people and services.

Download the program here : rural-health-conference-program-no-spreads

The program includes plenary/keynote sessions, concurrent sessions and poster presentations. The program will also include clinical sessions to provide skill development and ongoing professional development opportunities :

Information Registrations HERE

10 May: National Indigenous Human Rights Awards

” The National Indigenous Human Rights Awards recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons who have made significant contribution to the advancement of human rights and social justice for their people.”

To nominate someone for one of the three awards, please go to https://shaoquett.wufoo.com/forms/z4qw7zc1i3yvw6/

For further information, please also check out the Awards Guide at https://www.scribd.com/document/336434563/2017-National-Indigenous-Human-Rights-Awards-Guide

23-25 May Conference Aboriginal People with Disability

Save the date: Conference for #Aboriginal People with #disability May 23, 24, 25 in #WaggaWagga

On 23, 24 and 25 May 2017 FPDN is hosting a conference for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability. Community members and service providers are also welcome. Sponsorship is available for First Peoples with disability.

Website

The agenda will be published in April 2017.

Download the PDF Save the Date – Living Our Way Conference

26 May :National Sorry day 2017

The first National Sorry Day was held on 26 May 1998 – one year after the tabling of the report Bringing them Home, May 1997. The report was the result of an inquiry by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission into the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.

27 May to June 3 National Reconciliation Week

6 June : Stomp out the Gap : Cathy Freeman Foundation

More info Here

1-2 July Aboriginal Health Conference Perth .

We would like to invite NACCHO and any partnering organisations to submit an Abstract on these projects for consideration in our Aboriginal Health Conference taking place at the Parmelia Hilton Perth on the 1-2 July 2017.

Abstract submissions are now being invited that address Aboriginal health and well-being.

Underpinned by a strong conference theme; Champions | Connection | Culture, it will provide an inspirational platform for those with evidence based approaches, improved health outcomes and successful projects in

Aboriginal Health;
Community Engagement;
Education;
Workforce Development.

If you are currently engaged in work, research or other collaborations relating to Aboriginal health you are encouraged to submit an abstract of 300 words. Abstracts will be reviewed by our Education Steering Committee. Abstracts that fulfil the requirements as outlined in the Submissions Guidelines will be considered. Due consideration will be given to originality and quality. Receipt of abstracts will be acknowledged within one week of them being received and successful applicants will be notified by 23 May 2017. Successful abstracts will be published in the Conference Program handbook.

Attached for your reference is the Abstract Submission Form and the Abstract Submission Guidelines.

Download Here abstract-submission-form_2017-v1

Closing date for abstract submission is Monday 10 April 2017.

Should you have any further questions or queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Should you have any further questions or queries, please don’t hesitate to contact the Events team.

events@ruralhealthwest.com.au | T: 6389 4500 | F: 6389 4501

2-9 July NAIDOC WEEK

The importance, resilience and richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages will be the focus of national celebrations marking NAIDOC Week 2017.

The 2017 theme – Our Languages Matter – aims to emphasise and celebrate the unique and essential role that Indigenous languages play in cultural identity, linking people to their land and water and in the transmission of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, spirituality and rites, through story and song.

More info about events

8-9 August 2nd World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Viral Hepatitis Alaska USA

2nd World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Viral Hepatitis in Anchorage Alaska in August 2017 after the 1st which was held in Alice Springs in 2014.

Download Brochure Save the date – World Indigenous Hepatitis Conference Final
Further details are available at https://www.wipcvh2017.org/

10 October CATSINAM Professional Development Conference Gold Coast

Contact info for CATSINAM

30 October –2 Nov NACCHO AGM Members Meeting Canberra

Details to be released

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

Aboriginal Health #racism and #cancer #WCPH2017 : The inoperable, unstoppable @Proudblacksista Colleen Lavelle and other strong stories

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did,

but people will never forget how you made them feel. – Maya Angelou

These strong words are so true. I look at how my behaviour has changed with the brain tumour. I shudder when I think of the things I have said to my children.

I think it was about eight or nine years ago I was diagnosed with a brain tumour,

The reason I’m vague on it is I actually don’t think it’s a day to remember. It’s not a celebratory day.

Thinking about my four children motivates me to keep going

I’ll be buggered if I am going to have the [child safety] department or someone like that come in and take care of my kids.”

Cancer is a leading cause of death among Indigenous Australians, but fear, stigma and shame mean it is rarely spoken about.

Ms Colleen Lavelle’s a Wakka Wakka woman, from Queenslandknown as @Proudbacksista tumour has been deemed inoperable, which means it’s considered terminal.

Hear or Download hear her Radio National Interview

Watch ABC TV report

Photo above from previous NACCHO News Alert

NACCHO Aboriginal Health : Death by #racism: Is bigotry in the health system harming Indigenous patients ?

NACCHO and Cancer over 60 articles

NACCHO Cultural Safety

Federal Government Website

Cancer in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Australia

Colleen lives in Brisbane and through her blog she has become a support person for other Aboriginal people facing cancer, helping them with practical matters and being a friendly voice on the other end of a phone line.

She also accompanies some patients to hospital appointments and would like to see it made easier for Aboriginal volunteers to do such work.

“If you come from the Torres Strait and you’ve come down here and someone’s speaking to you really fast, rattling off all these medical things you’ll kind of be going, ‘what?’,” she said.

“If you’ve got someone, one of your own mob there it makes it easier.”

Recently Colleen wrote for Croakey /We Public Health

Close the Gap should be so much more than a photo opportunity or a morning tea. There are ways that everyone can help. I am going to share ten simple ones that I have been trying to get happening for years.

More Indigenous hospital liaison officers – Whatever title you use, we need more people in the hospital working for us. Big hospitals often only employ two, that is not even close to being enough. They should be employed around the clock.
Indigenous hospital volunteers – Hospitals need to have a separate army of volunteers, who deal exclusively with Indigenous patients, to spend time with the person from a remote area in a city hospital. To sit with someone having a long treatment. Just a friendly face in an alien environment.
Cultural Awareness Training (CAT) – Should be compulsory with all hospital staff, from the cleaner to the director. This training should address the issues and problems in health, but also needs to be localised to have the Traditional Owners from the area to share their knowledge. To truly let people understand, I am not talking a one of two-hour session a year, but a long, fully-formed training, with refresher courses each year. All medical and Allied Health professionals should do, and be assessed on, Cultural Awareness on a regular basis, and this needs to be registered. It is not good enough when a health professional does one course on Indigenous People and 20 years later still think that was enough. General Practice also need to have CAT, even if they are not signed on to CTG, because they are going to be seeing Indigenous patients.
General Practice incentive payments – GPs must lose their incentive payments if they sign on for the incentive and, during that time they don’t see an Indigenous patient. Again, they should lose the bonus if they are signed up and do not annotate the prescriptions for patients.
Indigenous people have the right of choice – We should be able to see a private GP or the local Indigenous Medical Service, or both if we want, but some funding seems to steer us towards the Indigenous Medical Service. This can be hard if it’s a long way from your home and you have to depend on public transport.
Employ more Indigenous people in the health sector, not just doctors – It can be as simple as a receptionist, who makes a difference.
Indigenous patients must be heard – Not just in the surgery but on national committees. Our experiences must be more than just fodder for researchers or funding applications.
Buck-passing – PHNs, Division of General Practices and other organisations, must stop handing over Indigenous units to others. You have patients that see so many doctors, you have to be responsible. Handing units over to Indigenous Medical Services etc, is passing the buck. It takes away our free choice. It is a way of saying you are not interested in our wellbeing.
Respect – Invite Elders to your hospital, clinic, whatever, on a regular basis, consider having an Elder in residence at your local hospital.
Recognise and celebrate our important dates – It smacks of racism if a hospital is decked out in green and shamrocks everywhere for St Patrick’s day and come NAIDOC, there is a morning tea, hidden away, with only a few people involved. Share it. Don’t even get me started on Australia Day. (Okay, just a little bit) Understand that we don’t think it’s great to wave the flag or want to be in your premises when you have complete overkill of decorations and start talking about how wonderful it is.

The unspoken illness: Cancer in Aboriginal communities

Lateline

By Barbara Miller

Cancer is a leading cause of death among Indigenous Australians, but fear, stigma and shame mean it is rarely spoken about.

Aboriginal Australians are less likely to be diagnosed with cancer, but significantly more likely to die of the disease.

Often, symptoms and diagnoses are ignored because of the fear surrounding cancer.

Cancer in Aboriginal communities:

Indigenous Australians have a slightly lower rate of cancer diagnosis than non-Indigenous Australians
The Aboriginal cancer mortality rate is 30 per cent higher
Indigenous Australians are more likely to be diagnosed when cancer is advanced
They are less likely to participate in cancer screening programs
Lung cancer is the most common cancer among Indigenous Australians

Lateline spoke to some Aboriginal people about how they dealt being diagnosed and how they’re trying to break down taboos in their communities.

Rodney Graham: Bowel cancer

Photo: Rodney Graham had to travel 700 kilometres to be treated for bowel cancer. (ABC News: Brant Cumming)

Rodney Graham literally ran away from his diagnosis in 2015.

For seven months he didn’t go back to his doctor after he was told he had bowel cancer.

Eventually though, he mustered the courage to deal with the diagnosis and get treatment.

He had to travel 700 kilometres from his community of Woorabinda, in central Queensland, to Brisbane to be operated on.

“A big city like that, I don’t even like going to [Rockhampton] really. I can’t stand Rocky. But Brisbane that was a step up you know,” he said.

Now Mr Graham is happy to talk about his illness and wants to help others in his community face up to cancer.

“It might happen to someone else and they say, ‘Well we’ll go see Rodney, he knows all about it’,” he said.

“I’ll give them some advice and see how it goes from there.”

Mr Graham gave up drinking years ago and he said it probably saved his life.

“I think if I was still drinking I wouldn’t be here, you know what I mean,” he said.

Aunty Tina Rankin: Cervical cancer

Photo: Aunty Tina Rankin is a member of the Woorabinda Women’s Group. (ABC News: Brant Cumming)

Aunty Tina has survived cancer, but seen several close relatives succumb to the disease.

“One minute you’re sitting down there with that person, that person is so healthy, and then the next time you see them they’re that sick, they’re that small you can hardly recognise them,” she said.

“People think of it as the killer disease.

“They see people in cancer wards and to look at those people it puts them into a depressed state, and they go home thinking that they’re going to end up like that.”

Aunty Tina said people need to know there is help available for cancer sufferers.

She is part of the Woorabinda Women’s Group who are working to raise awareness in the community about cancer so sufferers don’t feel isolated.

“When you’re well and up and running, you’ve got that many friends,” she said.

“All of a sudden you get sick, you find out you’ve got cancer, you’ve got nobody, it feels as if you’re on your own.

“There were times when I just wanted to go and commit suicide through the depression.

“But I sit down and think about things, I pull myself out of that deep hole.”

Sevese Isaro: Lost his father to cancer

Photo: Sevese Isaro said it was hard to cope after his father died from cancer. (ABC News: Brant Cumming)

Sevese Isaro, or Tatay as he’s known locally, is Woorabinda’s radio host.

He knows first-hand how hard it can be to talk about cancer, having lost his father to the disease just a few years ago.

“Everyone just tried to stop talking about it,” he said.

“I fell back into drinking, everybody just went their own way.”

He said many people don’t go to the doctor when they suspect they could have cancer.

“They know that there’s something wrong with them, but they don’t want to go because they’re frightened of the answer,” he said.

“I guess people once they hear the word cancer they start getting frightened and they automatically give up hope.”

If you or anyone you know needs help contact your local ACCHO or call

Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and #NTRC Children : Download Interim Report from the Royal Commission Protection and Detention of Children

” It is a stark fact that the Northern Territory has the highest rate of children and young people in detention in this country and the highest rate of engagement with child protection services, by a considerable margin

Again, as noted by the Commission, we have had over 50 reports and inquiries into issues covered by the Inquiry, dating at least back to the Royal Commission into Deaths in Custody and the Bringing Them Home inquiry. We absolutely support the Commission’s position that:

There is community concern that this Commission’s recommendations and report will, like those before it, be shelved without leading to action and change.

This must not happen.”

John Paterson CEO AMSANT and spokesperson for APO

“Along with reforms to youth justice and our early childhood reforms, this Government has begun building more remote houses because we know a good home leads to a good education, good health and good community outcomes,

“We are also tackling the causes of crime and social dysfunction through a plan to combat alcohol abuse – bringing back the BDR – and investing in appropriate rehabilitation strategies

Chief Minister Michael Gunner welcomes the release of the Royal Commission’s interim report which highlights work already happening to address the cycle of crime through the Territory Labor Government’s youth justice system overhaul.

Mr Gunner said the root cause of many of the challenges highlighted in the Royal Commission’s Interim Report was disadvantage. See Full Press release below

Download or Read NT Govt response NTRC Interim report

” The Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion needs to show leadership, and step away from his statement in the Senate this week that justice targets are only the state and territories’ responsibility.

It is now beyond argument. The Royal Commission interim report, the Productivity Commission report, and the work of Change the Record Coalition, all point to the need for national leadership and commitment.

The right of children and young people to receive justice and fair treatment is a national responsibility.

Minister Scullion and the Turnbull Government need to act and the Labor Opposition stands ready to work with them on this critical task.”

SENATOR PATRICK DODSON

Download or Read Labour Response NTRC Interin Report

Download or read the interim report

The RCNT-Interim-report

APONT welcomes the Interim Report from the Royal Commission and Board of Inquiry into the Protection and Detention of Children in the Northern Territory.

The Interim Report, which has gathered evidence from a wide range of witnesses, clearly demonstrates our people face a system which, in the words of the Commission “reveals a youth detention system that is likely to leave many children and young people more damaged than when they entered.”

Critics of the Royal Commission have claimed that “we already know this” and that it has been a waste of time and money. This is not the case. The Commission has demonstrated a system which is broken, and in urgent need of radical reform. As the Commission has pointed out:

A total of 94 per cent of children and young people in detention and 89 per cent of children and young people in out-of-home care in the Northern Territory are Aboriginal. The extent of this over-representation of Aboriginal children and young people, compared with all other children and young people, including Torres Strait Islanders, compels specific consideration of their position.

While the Interim Report does not make specific recommendations, it is clear that it will seek a balance between those who are concerned about community safety and reform that will lead to better outcomes for our young people in avoiding the effects of intergenerational trauma and involvement with the legal system.

We welcome this approach. We need a greater emphasis on rehabilitation and restorative justice that will lead to safer communities for all of us.

Michael Gunner

Chief Minister of the Northern Territory

Interim Report Backs Territory Government Action

31 March 2017

Mr Gunner said the Interim Report did not put forward recommendations or findings, but identified themes directly relating to work already underway.

“My Government took immediate action upon coming to Government to overhaul the broken youth justice system and implement our child protection agenda,” Mr Gunner said.

“Our $18.2 million reform – the most comprehensive in our history directlyaligns with many of the challenges the Royal Commission has identified in its interim report.

“I have discussed the Report with the Prime Minister, and reiterated with him the challenges and issues identified in the interim report require an aligned effort between the Commonwealth and the NT Government.”

Changes already implemented by the Territory Labor Government include:

Passing legislation to ban spithoods and restraint chairs;
Funding 52 new youth diversion workers;
Providing $6 million to NGO’s to run diversion programs and boot camps;
Recruitment and training 25 new Youth Justice Officers in Darwin and Alice Springs.

“This is not a short term fix. We are rebuilding trust in Government by making a long term commitment that goes beyond election cycles, focussing on breaking the cycle of crime through early intervention and tough but fair rehabilitation and diversion programs,” Mr Gunner said.

Mr Gunner said the root cause of many of the challenges highlighted in the Royal Commission’s Interim Report was disadvantage.

He said the NT Government is addressing the cycle of disadvantage through its record $1.1 billion investment to build and improve remote houses right across the Territory.

Mr Gunner said he looked forward to receiving the final report in August.

NT youth detention system a failure, says royal commission

Commissioners Margaret White and Mick Gooda use interim report to criticise operation that focuses on punishment over rehabilitation

Juvenile detention is failing, the royal commission into the protection and detention of children in the Northern Territory has said in its interim report.

As reported in the Guardian

Become a Guardian Supporter Supporters keep our journalism fearless and free to tell the stories that matter

Released on Friday afternoon, the report contained no specific findings or recommendations, claiming it was “too early” while hearings were ongoing, despite the significance of evidence so far.

“The commission is yet to hear evidence on many issues, including evidence from senior management and political leaders in charge of youth detention who provide a perspective that is necessary to inform the work of the commission,” it said.

However it said it could make some observations, including that the youth detention system “is likely to leave many children and young people more damaged than when they entered”.

“We have heard that the detention facilities are not fit for accommodating children and young people, and not fit for the purpose of rehabilitation. They are also unsuitable workplaces for youth justice officers and other staff,” it said.

They are harsh, bleak, and not in keeping with modern standards. They are punitive, not rehabilitative.”

The report said evidence so far pointed overwhelmingly to community safety and child wellbeing being best achieved by a “comprehensive, multifaceted approach” based on crime prevention, early intervention, diversionary measures, and community engagement.”

Children and young people who have committed serious crimes must accept responsibility for the harm done. However while in detention they must be given every chance to get their lives on track and not leave more likely to reoffend.

For the past eight months the inquiry into the protection and detention of children in the Northern Territory has been investigating the policies, conditions, and actions which contributed to a juvenile justice crisis.

“At every level we have seen that a detention system which focuses on punitive – not rehabilitative – measures fails our young people,” said Margaret White, one of the commissioners, on Friday ahead of the report’s release. “It fails those who work in those systems and it fails the people of the Northern Territory who are entitled to live in safer communities.

White said there was no quick fix and a considered approach was necessary if the commission was to effect long-term, sustainable change

Mick Gooda, the other commissioner said they had made no specific recommendations in the interim report because key witnesses – including the former minister John Elferink and former corrections commissioner Ken Middlebrook – were yet to be questioned. The commission had also focused mainly on issues in detention so far, and was yet to properly delve in the care and protection side of their terms of reference.

“We have cast the net far and wide to look at what is working and what could work in the circumstances of the Northern Territory,” he said, adding there was a particular focus on the overrepresentation of Aboriginal youth in the system.

The commission was initially slated to be finished by now, but in December it was granted a four-month extension.

Over a series of public hearings and site visits it has covered a broad range of issues, including the more than 50 previous investigations and reviews relating to the system, the impact of health and race issues on detention rates, the disintegrating relationships between corrections and justice agencies, and, of course, the conditions inside detention centres.

Inadequate staff training and insufficient resources were a common theme in witness testimony.

Dozens of additional allegations by detainees were also aired in closed sessions and open court, including alleged and substantiated acts of violence and intimidation, and mistreatment.

The commission faced criticism by government lawyers and commentators over its policy to accept the statements of detainees but not allow cross-examination because they were vulnerable witnesses. Instead numerous responsive statements were provided by the accused, denying and in some cases refuting the claims. Some statements by former guards were similarly discredited under cross-examination.

NACCHO Alert : #Indigenous Health to be major feature opening day of #WCPH2017 World Congress on Public Health Program

Day 1 : Self-governance and health for Indigenous peoples of Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA

See program

“While the Indigenous cultures in the four countries are different in some obvious and critical ways, they also share key commonalities in their colonial heritages and challenges in addressing development needs.

Through collaboration and sharing of new thinking and innovative processes Indigenous peoples can address their contemporary needs and aspirations.

Michelle will draw on case studies that show how investment in cultural based models of government will create diverse and effective Indigenous Nations and communities.

Michelle Deshong is a global leader in governance. She’s completeing a PhD at James Cook University in Townsville and draws her connection to the Kuku Yulanji Nation. 11.30 in The Plenary.

“ On behalf of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation I would like to welcome over 2,000 visitors (especially our International visitors) to #WCPH2017

The Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector deliver comprehensive primary health care in 302 sites nationally; have over 45 years of cultural capability, integrity, knowledge, and experience for the advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples dating back to early 1970’s with the establishment of our first Aboriginal Medical Service in Redfern.

The lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are still on average 10 years shorter, we have far higher incidences of chronic diseases such as Diabetes and cancer and our children have less access to good quality education than the average non-Indigenous Australians.

The evidence tells us that Aboriginal people respond best to health care provided by Aboriginal people or controlled by the Aboriginal community.

Only by improving the health of Aboriginal people will we be able to tackle other areas of disadvantage – sick kids can’t get to school and sick adults can’t get to work.

That’s why we are so committed to achieving generational change in the health of Aboriginal people. “

Matthew Cooke Chair NACCHO

Subscribe to our NACCHO Aboriginal Health News Alerts

The First peoples Networking space is hosted by our Victorian Affiliate VACCHO

The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation

Press Release Program Monday

‘Enemies of the people’: public health in the era of populist politics and media – Martin McKee, past president European Public Health Association

Public health has transformed the world. We have longer and healthier lives. Roads, work, food are all safer. So why are populist politicians and media portraying public health leaders as ‘enemies of the people’ asks Martin McKee.

They are rejecting scientific evidence and replacing it with fake news. Public health has a duty to speak truth to power. It can also help explain the rise of these forces including evidence that declining health was the strongest predictor of the shift in votes to Donald Trump.

But public health is not always on the side of the angels, especially in 1930s Germany. We are living in dangerous times, with some of the leading countries in the world led by politicians who are both dangerous and grossly incompetent. Yet there is hope. We have been here before. We must ensure that this time public health is on the right side.

Martin McKee is Professor of European Public Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He’s speaking at 10.30 in The Plenary. More below.

The poorest 20 per cent of Australians are most likely to be unhealthy – we can change that

“The world is an inherently unfair place—and that has consequences for your health,” says Professor Sharon Friel from ANU.

Beyond simple bugs and broken bones, health problems are also influenced by the circumstances in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. Australian National University researcher Sharon Friel wants to break these ‘social determinants of health’.

She will share a case study of how national policies can encourage healthy and equitable eating, helping to prevent chronic disease; explain how international trade agreements can have health consequences, and discuss a vision for a fair; sustainable and healthy world.

Sharon has advised the WHO and the Rockefeller Foundation on health equity.

The fifth of Australia’s adult population in the lowest socioeconomic status bracket is also the group most likely to be regular smokers, to do little or no exercise, to be overweight and to have high blood pressure. Could it be due to poorer access to healthy food? Or living in car-dependent outer suburbs that don’t encourage walking?

Sharon Friel is speaking at 11 am in The Plenary. More below

How to eliminate HIV and hepatitis B and C

Blood-borne diseases kill millions of people globally every year. The World Health Organization has set targets to end the HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C epidemics by 2030 and there is a real possibility of achieving these goals. Margaret Hellard from the Burnet Institute will lead a World Leadership Dialogue exploring what we need to do to end these diseases—and it will take more than drugs.

“It is vitally important that we take a multipronged approach if we are going to end the epidemics of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. We need prevention – safe sex education and access to pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV transmission, access to clean injecting equipment and opioid substitution therapy. We need to ensure that the “birth dose” of hepatitis B vaccine is given to all babies globally within 24 hours of birth. We need simple, affordable blood tests. We need to ensure equity of access to treatment. Finally, we need research for cures and vaccines.”

1.30 pm, more below.

Creating systems to prevent chronic diseases – Andrew Wilson, Australian Partnership Prevention Centre

Chronic diseases kill more than 38 million people a year and are the leading cause of premature death and disability in Australia. Despite all our efforts to encourage people to live more healthily, we’re getting fatter and sicker. Andrew Wilson will lead the World Leaders Dialogue session ‘Exploring systems approaches to chronic disease prevention’, with presentations and discussion with international and national leaders in health policy and research in new ways to tackle this wicked problem. 4 pm.

Self-governance and health for indigenous peoples of Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA

While the Indigenous cultures in the four countries are different in some obvious and critical ways, they also share key commonalities in their colonial heritages and challenges in addressing development needs. Through collaboration and sharing of new thinking and innovative processes Indigenous peoples can address their contemporary needs and aspirations. Michelle will draw on case studies that show how investment in cultural based models of government will create diverse and effective Indigenous Nations and communities.

Michelle Deshong is a global leader in governance. She’s completeing a PhD at James Cook University in Townsville and draws her connection to the Kuku Yulanji Nation. 11.30 in The Plenary. More below.

Other speakers/topics/stats from day one, Monday, at the World Congress on Public Health

Medicine is a social science and politics is nothing more but medicine on a grand scale. What does that mean in 2017? Dr Ilona Kickbusch, Global Health Centre, Geneva, 12 noon, The Plenary
What can we learn from past global pandemics to be ready for the next one? – Raina Macintyre, UNSW
Sex after 65: Sexual activity and physical tenderness in older adults – Rosanne Freak-Poli, Monash University
Are celebrities bad for your health? Stars in food and beverage advertising – Vivica Kraak, Virginia Tech
Up, Up and Away with Superhero Foods: Developing nutrition resources for school aged children – Jennifer Tartaglia, Foodbank WA
Stopping mothers, children and adolescents dying young (six million preventable young deaths last year), Judy Lewis, University of Connecticut
Could Trump’s withdrawal from the Trans Pacific Partnership be good for public health? Deborah Gleeson, LaTrobe University

The 15th World Congress on Public Health is on from 3 to 7 April at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Share this:

Like this:

What is depression?

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Lets celebrate and share our ACCHO’s success

Share this:

Like this:

How to submit a Indigenous Health #jobalert ?

Added

Share this:

Like this:

Traditional food availability and consumption in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, Australia

Methods

Sample

Data collection

Data analysis

Ethics

Results

Participants

Annual availability of traditional food

Frequency of traditional food consumption

Variety of traditional foods consumed

The role of traditional food consumption in alleviating food insecurity

Discussion

Implications

Acknowledgements

Share this:

Like this:

Awards Funding $ and surveys OPEN

Events and Workshops

Share this:

Share this:

Like this:

The unspoken illness: Cancer in Aboriginal communities

Cancer in Aboriginal communities:

Sevese Isaro: Lost his father to cancer

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: