Category Aboriginal youth

NACCHO Sector News: 4 February 2025

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Federal intervention is necessary for any change in youth justice

Australia’s youth justice system is under review as a Parliamentary inquiry examines the balance between policy and evidence-based reform. Pat Turner, lead convener of the Coalition of Peaks, and CEO of NACCHO, highlighted the importance of focusing on solutions that support Indigenous children rather than policies shaped by election-driven narratives.

She emphasised that some recent state laws have significant impacts on young people, particularly in Queensland and the Northern Territory, where changes in sentencing laws have drawn attention.

The inquiry also explored how the federal government could work with states to align youth justice policies with Closing the Gap commitments.

To read the full article, go here.

Pat Turner, lead convener of the Coalition of Peaks, and CEO of NACCHO.

Julyardi and Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa Aboriginal Corporations to Lead Vital Youth Initiative in Newman

The Pilbara Safe Spaces program, co-designed with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), will provide safe spaces for at-risk youth in Hedland and Newman. Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation will manage the Hedland site, while Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa Aboriginal Corporation will lead in Newman.

The Pilbara Development Commission, Department of Communities, and ACCOs are supporting the rollout, aligning with WA’s Aboriginal Empowerment Strategy. The program aims to divert young people from antisocial behaviour through culturally responsive support, family follow-ups, and pathways to education and employment.

To read more, go here.

The Safe Spaces program is expected to launch by mid-year.

Ochre Ribbon marks 10 years of campaign to end family and domestic violence

Joyleen Butler has achieved a remarkable milestone as the first person from her remote community of Kaltukatjara (Docker River) to graduate high school in a decade. Her dedication and perseverance have not only brought pride to her family but also served as an inspiring example for her community.

Joyleen’s accomplishment highlights the positive impact of education and the potential for success, even in remote areas. Her story underscores the importance of supporting educational opportunities in all communities, fostering hope and motivation for future generations.

To read more, go here.

AFLS chief executive Corina Martin. Image: Kimberley Echo.

Graduate paves the way for her remote community

Joyleen Butler has become the first person in a decade from Kaltukatjara (Docker River), a remote community in the Northern Territory, to graduate from high school. Her dedication and perseverance have set a positive example for her community, highlighting the importance of education and determination.

Joyleen’s accomplishment not only marks a personal milestone but also serves as an inspiration for others in Kaltukatjara to pursue their educational goals.

To read more, go here.

Joyleen Butler has returned to work in her community after graduating high school. (Supplied)

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

NACCHO Sector News: 3 February 2025

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Cervical screening merchandise available for ACCHOs

Promote cervical screening in your ACCHO! NACCHO currently has remaining cervical screening merchandise available to order (at no cost to ACCHOs) including:

  • Cervical screening polo shorts (please note we only have the following sizes in stock – small, 4XL and 6XL)
  • Self-swab lip-glosses (please note this is a health promotion tool, not a real swab)
  • Self-collection pouches (please note these are for use in the context of a self-collected Cervical Screening Test. Please do not distribute for health promotion purposes).

To place an order, go here.

FLIP THE VAPE: Anti-vaping campaign launched in VIC

The Koori Way, The Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) Preventative Health Unit, in collaboration with Mo Works has launched ‘FLIP THE VAPE’ across Victoria. Given the rise of vape usage among young people, 10 young Koori’s across Victoria have taken the pledge to “FLIP THE VAPE” for good, encouraging young people to stop vaping for their health, their Community, and their Country.

From Mildura to Geelong to Bairnsdale to Shepparton and Melbourne, in most parts of Victoria you are likely come across our Flip The Vape campaign at Shopping Centres, on billboards, on public transport, street posters and on several social media platforms.

For support to quit, call Quitline on 13 78 48.

Image source: The Koori Way

Aboriginal homelessness target needed to provide accountability

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders in Victoria have met with the federal housing minister to discuss the crisis of homelessness amongst Indigenous communities across the state. In a meeting hosted at the Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation’s Homelessness Entry Point site, Labor Minister Clare O’Neil met with a number of organisations who are members of the Victorian Aboriginal Housing and Homelessness Forum (AHHF).

“This is a great first step in improving the state of housing for Aboriginal people in Victoria and ensuring that they have a safe home to live in,” Victorian Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisation chief executive, Dr Jill Gallagher, said.

The gathering with Minister O’Neil focussed on several priorities, including the establishment of an appropriate Aboriginal homelessness target in Victoria.

AHHF chair and Aboriginal Housing Victoria chief executive, Darren Smith, said this would “provide the accountability needed to help close the gap”.

“Safe, secure, and culturally appropriate housing is essential to improving health and wellbeing outcomes in our communities,” Mr Smith said.

Read the full National Indigenous Times article here.

Aboriginal Housing and Homelessness Forum chair Darren Smith. (Image: supplied, Yoorrook Justice Commission)

Supporting equitable access to kidney transplant in remote WA

In the Kimberley, as in many other rural and remote regions of Australia, End-Stage Kidney Disease is a problem of epidemic proportions, creating a profound impact on communities and individuals forced to relocate from country to access treatment.

Research by Kimberley Renal Services, Royal Perth Hospital, and The Rural Clinical School of Western Australia found that their patients were either suitable for transplant workup or could improve their suitability with help improving their health risk factors and people want more support to achieve these changes. The results will be used to inform model of care development for transplant support within Kimberley Renal Services.

Full results from this study are available online here.

Image source: Unsplash.

Locals in the Torres Strait want homegrown doctors, but they say there are too many barriers

In 1999, Dr Karen Nicholls became the second ever Torres Strait Islander doctor known to graduate from university. Since then, she says there’s been a cultural shift in the health industry’s understanding of the valuable skill sets Indigenous professionals bring to the table.

“We become doctors, we become clinically good, but we can also provide cultural safety with the way in which we do things,” she said.

“…You cannot be clinically safe without being culturally safe – the two go hand in hand.”

Dr Nichols was part of a group of twenty Torres Strait Islander doctors that visited the Torres Strait last year, some connecting with their homelands for the first time. Organised by the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA) and local Elders under the ‘Igilyawa Program’, doctors and students spent time in communities, schools, hospitals and local health services.

The report on the historic visit showed that 82% of the cohort were interested in coming home to work, and 100% were considering ways to further contribute to the health needs of Torres Strait Islanders.

AIDA CEO Donna Burns said the united voice of the doctors was powerful.

“These [doctors] expressed an interest in working back home with community, where we know the health disparity is so great,” she said.

“That cultural understanding will be so powerful in someone’s healing journey, and we are really committed to [advocating] to shake up a system.”

Read the full NITV article here.

Dr Karen Nicholls says being culturally safe means being clinically safe. Supplied: Carli Willis

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

Sector News newsletter: 10 December 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

NACCHO Welcomes the First Nations Health Care in Prisons National Review

NACCHO, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, welcomes the publication of the National Review of First Nations Health Care in Prisons.

This landmark report sheds light on the inequities in health and well-being experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in places of detention and outlines vital recommendations for transformative change.

As the peak body for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHS), NACCHO endorses the recommendations of the Review, subject to three fundamental principles, including an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led Approach that ensures solutions are driven and determined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Pat Turner, CEO of NACCHO stated: “We cannot continue to accept the unacceptable. Access to culturally safe and effective health care is a basic human right. Yet, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in prisons and youth detention continue to face significant health inequities.”

To read the full article, go here.

iso-republic-two-hands-in-handcuffs-lean-on-bars-of-a-prison-cell

Person in handcuffs in prison cell. Image credit: https://isorepublic.com.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diabetes prevention pathway

A new partnership between the Bupa Foundation NACCHO will see over 500 of its health workers receive diabetes prevention training to support improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

NACCHO chief executive officer Pat Turner said that by training over 500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers through this partnership, the organisation is able to address diabetes prevention directly within communities.

“Culturally informed, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led training is essential to reversing the impact of diabetes and improving health outcomes,” Ms Turner said.

To read more, go here.

Male having blood pressure taken. Image supplied by NACCHO.

Male having blood pressure taken. Image supplied by NACCHO.

Roadmap sets sights on digital equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by 2026

The Australian Government, guided by the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group (FNDIAG), is working to address the barriers to digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, particularly in remote and regional areas. The roadmap developed by FNDIAG is a key step towards achieving Target 17 of Closing the Gap, which seeks equal levels of digital inclusion for First Nations peoples by 2026.

Key developments include:

  1. Prioritising First Nations Voices: The roadmap underscores the importance of First Nations-led solutions and highlights the role of First Nations media in amplifying Indigenous voices and addressing digital disparities.
  2. Place-Based Solutions: The roadmap centres on First Nations communities, ensuring that strategies are informed by lived experiences and tailored to local needs.

To read more, go here.

Phone and electricity lines. Image credit: Kenny Eliason, Unsplash.

Phone and electricity lines. Image credit: Kenny Eliason, Unsplash.

Albert Bevan: Western Australian and Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year 2024 winner

Having witnessed the mental health challenges facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Albert realised he needed further skills to positively address these challenges.

During his training, Albert was enrolled in a Certificate IV in Mental Health at Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services and employed at Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Services.

Having completed his qualification, Albert now works as a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Officer. His training gave him a greater understanding of mental health, and the importance of being able to identify, address, manage and provide support for mental health.

In his speech at the award presentation, Albert said “The beauty of it all is, I think I am so blessed to come from a landscape that is kind of the oldest art museum on the planet”.

To read more, go here.

$6 Million Boost To Junior Rangers Program

The government is delivering on its commitment to support on-Country learning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary and secondary students with a $6 million investment in additional projects under the Junior Rangers program.

The funding will help build on the program’s success in boosting school engagement and retention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, providing practical land and water management skills, and supporting pathways for young people to pursue future careers as Indigenous rangers.

Delivered by Gadhungal Marring, the program has engaged 60 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary students in immersive cultural learning since the project began in February.

To read more, go here.

Gudjaga-Laali Junior Rangers. Image credit - https://www.gadhungalmarring.com.au/gudjaga-laali-junior-rangers

Gudjaga-Laali Junior Rangers. Image credit – https://www.gadhungalmarring.com.au/gudjaga-laali-junior-rangers

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

25 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

‘Actions-based’ updated National Guide launched

An updated guide on preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has been launched on day two of GP24, with the new edition led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people including an increase of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors.

The fourth edition of the National guide to preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people comes after years of collaborative work from the RACGP and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).

First conceived of by NACCHO in 2001, the now fourth edition consists of 21 chapters, including the six additions – health impacts of racism, healthy eating, sleep, vaping, preconception care, and health impacts of climate change.

NACCHO Senior Medical Advisor and GP Dr Jason Agostino told newsGP the updated National Guide has ‘a great focus on implementation’.

‘Not everyone works in Aboriginal community controlled health organisations like I do, and sees Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients every day, but there are important differences in screening guidelines for certain conditions, as well as really important implementation tips about how we apply the evidence,’ he said.

Read more here.

The ‘National guide to preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’ was officially launched at GP24 on Friday.

NACCHO National Youth Conference 2024: One week to go

The NACCHO National Youth Conference is just one week away, taking place Monday, December 2nd, on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country at the National Convention Centre in Canberra. For people aged 18-26, this is an opportunity for youth to make their voices heard and help shape the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

The National Youth Conference will bring together up to 100 youth from around Australia to gain experience and exposure to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sector on a national level. During the conference the youth will engage in discussion, share their experience and learn from other peers from across the country. The conference will allow the youth to learn about informing policy, influencing change and provide a pathway so their voices are heard and represented by NACCHO throughout the sector.

For more information, go here.

The Beautiful Shawl Project Wins Victorian Public Healthcare Award

The Beautiful Shawl Project has won the Excellence in Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Award at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards. The Project was established in 2018 as a collaborative partnership between the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) and BreastScreen Victoria.

Since the Project’s launch, VACCHO and BreastScreen Victoria have worked alongside 30 Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and Aboriginal-led services, to perform a total of 1,342 breast screens for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the state. The award recognises innovation in health service delivery that is culturally responsive, promotes inclusion, advances self-determination and improves health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.

VACCHO CEO, Dr. Jill Gallagher AO, said she is immensely proud of the continued achievements of the Beautiful Shawl Project, which she knows saves lives.

“The success of the Beautiful Shawl Project demonstrates the power of having Aboriginal women in the driver’s seat, and the positive health and wellbeing outcomes that it creates.”

Read more here.

Image source: VACCHO.

Upcoming webinars: Lung Cancer Screening and the NCSR

To mark Lung Cancer Awareness Month, NACCHO and Telstra Health are co-hosting an hour-long webinar for ACCHO staff. This session will explore the key touchpoints ACCHOs will have with the National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) throughout the National Lung Cancer Screening pathway, as well as the activities ACCHOs will need to undertake in preparation for the Program.

We encourage you to join the discussion and share your insights on how ACCHOs can be best supported in preparing to interact with the NCSR.

There are two different date options for attending the webinar. If you are interested in attending, please register for the one that works best with your schedule:

Aged care facility helps WA elderly stay close to family in Roebourne

Across the entirety of WA’s Pilbara, there are just two aged care centres, the largest in Port Hedland, 1,630 kilometres north of Perth. It means residents — including from the Pilbara’s remote Indigenous communities — often have to leave the region to find adequate care. For Elders, this can result in a separation from their culture and heritage and a fear of dying away from their home country.

Addressing that concern is one of the key goals of the not-for-profit Yaandina aged care centre in the remote community of Roebourne. Yaandina manager Joan Watt said the centre was designed and operated differently to a typical aged care facility.

“Most of our residents were brought up on stations on country, so we have access to the outside … and the roof is open so that people are able to see the sky and the stars as they normally would have when they were growing up,” she said.

Read more here.

Older Indigenous residents return to Yaandina in Roebourne to see out the remainder of their days on country. (ABC Pilbara: Alex Govan).

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference

The 2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December as part of a broader program commencing on Sunday 1 December with the NACCHO Men’s Health Day, NACCHO Youth Conference on Monday 2 December and the 2024 NACCHO Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 3 December. A Conference dinner will be held on Wednesday 4 December.

If you are thinking about coming to the NACCHO Conference, the only way to register is via the NACCHO Website – www.naccho.org.au/conference. We are using the secure Cvent system for registrations. NACCHO will not call you directly about registering for the conference.

 If you have any queries, please contact the NACCHO Conference Team: conference@naccho.org.au

To register, go here.

22 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Preventive care guidelines to improve health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: GP24

The health impacts of climate change, vaping and racism are among new topics in the fourth edition of preventive healthcare guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, launching at Australia’s premier annual GP conference in Perth today.

It comes on day two of the Royal Australia College of GPs (RACGP) annual conference GP24, from 21 to 23 November at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Dr Karen Nicholls, Chair of RACGP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, said: “I’m proud to be launching with NACCHO the fourth NACCHO-RACGP National guide to preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

NACCHO CEO Pat Turner said the launch of the fourth edition of the NACCHO-RACGP National guide to preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is a vital step in addressing health inequities and empowering our communities to thrive.

“This guide reflects the collective wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, ensuring culturally and clinically safe care is at the forefront. By tackling emerging challenges such as climate change, vaping, and racism, we are not only addressing immediate health concerns but also laying the foundation for a healthier future.

“NACCHO is proud to partner with RACGP in delivering this indispensable resource to support GPs and healthcare workers nationwide in providing the highest standard of preventive care for our people.”

Read the full media release here.

Upcoming webinars: Lung Cancer Screening and the NCSR

To mark Lung Cancer Awareness Month, NACCHO and Telstra Health are co-hosting an hour-long webinar for ACCHO staff. This session will explore the key touchpoints ACCHOs will have with the National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) throughout the National Lung Cancer Screening pathway, as well as the activities ACCHOs will need to undertake in preparation for the Program.

We encourage you to join the discussion and share your insights on how ACCHOs can be best supported in preparing to interact with the NCSR.

There are two different date options for attending the webinar. If you are interested in attending, please register for the one that works best with your schedule:

“Enough is enough”: NT Government must fulfil promised $180m in funding for domestic violence services, AMSANT says

Ahead of a coroner’s findings into the deaths of four Indigenous women in the Northern Territory next week, the peak body for Aboriginal community-controlled health services in the Territory has called on the CLP government to fulfil its $180 million commitment to tackling domestic and family violence.

On Friday, the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) said the NT government needed to “draw a line in the sand” and commit to immediate action to address the “devastating rates of domestic and family violence” in the NT—the highest in the country.

AMSANT chief executive, Dr John Paterson, said the horrific details out of the inquest has “once again exposed the catastrophic extent” of the crisis in the NT, calling on the Territory government to outline how a previously promised $180 million in funding will be allocated to specialist services.

Both major parties committed to the funding before the August election, recognising the vital need for change, however Dr Paterson said since being elected, the new CLP government has offered “no details” on how the funding will be delivered.

He said the organisations and communities working on the frontline “simply cannot afford more government inaction,” urging the government to affirm its commitment to funding as well as providing clarity on how the funds will be allocated “to address the overwhelming demand for services”.

Read more here.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit  www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

13YARN 13 92 76

Aboriginal Counselling Services 0410 539 905

(Image: Mitch Woolnough/ABC News)

Report reveals underfunding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led child protection services despite growing need

An annual report has revealed that despite the growing over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the child protection system, the organisations proven to get the best results in cultural support, reunification with kin and connection to culture receive the least amount of funding.

The 2024 Family Matters Report, released today by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, shows Aboriginal community-controlled organisations (ACCOs), only receive 6 percent of government funding despite Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children making up 41 percent (22,908 in total) of children in out-of-home care (OOHC).

According to the report, this comes at a time when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s likelihood of being in OOHC reaches a record high of 10.8 times the likelihood for non-Indigenous children.

SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have never been more likely to be in OOHC, yet the community-controlled sector, which is most likely to keep those children safe and cared for at home with family, and connected to kin and culture, continues to be woefully underfunded.

Read more here.

Image source: SNAICC – National Voice for our Children

Celebrating ten years with AHCWA

The Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA) proudly celebrates Ear Health Program Coordinator Lorraine Taui on her 10-year milestone with the organisation.  In her years working at AHCWA, Lorraine has demonstrated exceptional devotion and leadership within the Public Health unit.

Always going above and beyond to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities, Lorraine consistently delivers the Ear Heath program to an exceptionally high standard. Consequently, her work has achieved great results for which Lorraine has been recognised as an expert within the sector. Lorraine’s approachable nature creates a safe and open space for any discussion or questions from her teammates. She is empathetic and friendly to every staff member that approaches her, making her an exemplary role model not only within her team but for all AHCWA staff.

Read more here.

Image source: AHCWA.

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference

The 2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December as part of a broader program commencing on Sunday 1 December with the NACCHO Men’s Health Day, NACCHO Youth Conference on Monday 2 December and the 2024 NACCHO Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 3 December. A Conference dinner will be held on Wednesday 4 December.

If you are thinking about coming to the NACCHO Conference, the only way to register is via the NACCHO Website – www.naccho.org.au/conference. We are using the secure Cvent system for registrations. NACCHO will not call you directly about registering for the conference.

 If you have any queries, please contact the NACCHO Conference Team: conference@naccho.org.au

To register, go here.

20 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

New preterm birth prevention campaign: See, Stop, Scan

The Preterm Birth Prevention ‘See, Stop, Scan’ campaign aims to educate and empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers by promoting engagement between healthcare providers and pregnant Top End women. Launched at the recent Australian College of Midwives NT Conference 2024, the campaign is an initiative of Menzies School of Health Research and the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in the Northern Territory experience some of the highest rates of preterm birth in the world, currently double that of non-Indigenous populations. Preterm birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) remains the single greatest cause of childhood death and disability in Australia.

The ‘See, Stop, Scan’ will highlight the role mothers and their healthcare workers can play in ensuring the healthy pregnancies.

Posters and information sheets offer the following advice:

  • See: your midwife early to make sure both you and baby stay strong and healthy.
  • Stop: smoking can cause harm to your baby, increasing the risk of being born too early or not growing properly.
  • Scan: having a scan of your baby in the second trimester to provide very important information about you and your baby.

Read more here.

Image source: ANMJ.

Kambu Health Young Men’s Didge Group

Kambu Health’s Young Men’s Didge Group has been running for the past few weeks, where the boys have been learning how to craft their own didgeridoo. Upon completion, they will be able to take their creations home.

They have been learning life skills, such as cooking, while also connecting with their culture. Throughout the program, male mentors have been there to guide and support them. The boys have enjoyed learning from facilitator Rhan Hooper and the dedicated Kambu Health Family Wellbeing Service (FWS) team.

Image source: Kambu Health.

VACCHO Rainbow Mob Gathering

Join VACCHO and Wathaurong Aboriginal Co Op this Thursday 21 November for a special night celebrating Rainbow Mob!

The Geelong Rainbow Mob Gathering is a FREE event for all Mob to come together, and show love and support for our Rainbow Mob community. There will be food, fun activities (with prizes!), and a chance for Community to provide feedback on what Rainbow Mob inclusion looks like for you.

For more information and to register, go here.

Image source: VACCHO.

New parents urged to ‘make the call’ on mental health

The number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families seeking mental health support during pregnancy and within the first year of a child’s birth has tripled, a perinatal helpline says.

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) says there has been a 200% increase in calls from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to their helpline over the past 18 months.

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia chief executive Julie Borninkhof said there are “so many contributing factors”, which may explain the increase, including geographical isolation and lack of local services.

“For First Nations communities where they’re more disconnected from localised services, or don’t have services on the ground, where there may be a history of intergenerational trauma … where we have lower socioeconomic status of the community, they’re all recipes to have a worse perinatal experience in terms of health and wellbeing,” she told AAP.

The service has also worked with community members to develop resources for parents.

Read more here.

Calls from Indigenous families to a helpline for pregnancy mental health support have increased. Photo: HANDOUT/THRIVE PR.

If this article brought up anything for you or someone you love, please reach out to, call or visit the online resources listed below for support.

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer has a devastating impact on our people, families and communities. It is the most common type of cancer and the most common cause of cancer death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Lung cancer screening is an opportunity to change this and improve health outcomes for our communities.

NACCHO is working with the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care and Cancer Australia to support the design and implementation of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.

To learn more about the program, go here.  

2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference

The 2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December as part of a broader program commencing on Sunday 1 December with the NACCHO Men’s Health Day, NACCHO Youth Conference on Monday 2 December and the 2024 NACCHO Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 3 December. A Conference dinner will be held on Wednesday 4 December.

If you are thinking about coming to the NACCHO Conference, the only way to register is via the NACCHO Website – www.naccho.org.au/conference. We are using the secure Cvent system for registrations. NACCHO will not call you directly about registering for the conference.

 If you have any queries, please contact the NACCHO Conference Team: conference@naccho.org.au

To register, go here.

18 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Joint Council reaffirms commitment on closing the gap

Led by Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Tony Buti, the Joint Council on Closing the Gap convened with representatives from federal, state, and territory governments, alongside key figures from the Coalition of Peaks, an organisation representing over 80 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations nationwide.

The meeting underscored the critical importance of collaboration to address the systemic challenges facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly in areas such as youth justice, healthcare, housing, and education.

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, echoed the need for structural reform and sustainable solutions aligned with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

Senator McCarthy highlighted recent developments in Indigenous health initiatives, including the First Nations Health Worker Traineeships Program.

“These traineeships are having a tangible impact,” she said.

“They bring trusted healthcare access to rural and remote areas, ensuring Indigenous Australians receive care that respects their cultural needs. Indigenous health should be led by Indigenous people, and this program enables communities to address health challenges on their terms.”

The Joint Council concluded with a clear call for every minister and government official to take concrete steps toward realising the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, saying the success of these initiatives hinges on the unified efforts of federal, state, and local governments working in partnership with Indigenous leaders and organisations.

To read more, go here.

Leaders from across the nation gathered in Perth on Friday to reaffirm their dedication to addressing the gap in Indigenous inequality. (Image: Rhiannon Clarke)

Lung cancer screening to save thousands of lives

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) will begin in July 2025, with the hope that it will save lives by detecting cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage.

Lung cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The NLCSP is working in partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) to make sure the screening program is culturally safe, equitable and accessible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The program is targeted at people aged between 50 and 70 and who have no signs of lung cancer, have a history of smoking and are still smoking or have stopped in the last 10 years.

The NLCSP will use low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to look for lung cancer. The Health Minister Mark Butler announced the program in May 2023 – allocating $264 million for the program that has the potential to save 12,000 lives in the first decade of the program.

Read more here.

Image source: Canva.

Yabilinya miya (learn together) program to support Koori women’s breastfeeding journey

Yalbilinya miya (learn together) breastfeeding program is designed by Aboriginal women for Aboriginal women. Research on perspectives and experiences of breastfeeding among Koori women living on Wiradjuri lands (Wagga Wagga), and recommendations for supports. This knowledge will inform the development of a holistic breastfeeding program led by Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Corporation which will support Koori mums through their breastfeeding journey.

The Wiradjuri midwife, Aboriginal Health Worker (AHW) and antenatal GP leading the program will receive lactation training and use this knowledge to support mums who participate in the project. A tailored breastfeeding education program run by our Wiradjuri midwife and antenatal team will develop relevant information and resources around the key themes found in the initial research stage of the program. Including a weekly breastfeeding program with new mums, breastfeeding mentors and Elders, dedicated breastfeeding support phone line to call or text to speak with someone in the team, designated breastfeeding appointments through the RivMed clinic, a breastfeeding pack including an electric breast pump, a Wiradjuri designed cover-up, nipple shields, storage backs and information about the benefits of pumping, and lastly, RivMed will design a Koori women’s breastfeeding space at the clinic.

Read more here.

Image source: Lowitja Institute.

Sports club scraps soft drink for research into childhood type 2 diabetes prevention

In a community-led push to prevent type 2 diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, Garbutt Magpies Sporting Association in Townsville has switched to serving only water alongside healthy food at its Friday night activities for local children.

Elders and researchers have collaborated on an innovative $50,000 culturally-responsive type 2 diabetes prevention program pilot through James Cook University and Townsville University Hospital.

Professor Usman Malabu is the head of Translational Research in Endocrinology and Diabetes at James Cook University, and is lead investigator on the study.

He said type 2 diabetes was 18 times more likely among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people than non-Indigenous children and could lead to life-threatening complications such as kidney failure.

Consumption of an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and a lack of public health awareness were key factors leading to the higher rate of type 2 diabetes in regional and remote areas, he said.

The focus of the program has been encouraging physical activity, serving fresh food and educating participants about healthy eating. But for 10-year-olds Ashleigha Massey and Makayla Poynter, the focus on Friday nights was having fun and playing sport, not research.

Makayla said she did not mind the shift to water, noting her aunt had diabetes.

“We would not like for our teeth to get yellow, and we want to stay healthy,” she said.

“We have fresh buns, and steak and lettuce and tomatoes. It’s fun.”

Read more here.

Garbutt Mapgies members Ashleigha Massey and Makayla Poynter embraced the move away from soft drink. (ABC News: Georgia Loney)

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference

The 2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December as part of a broader program commencing on Sunday 1 December with the NACCHO Men’s Health Day, NACCHO Youth Conference on Monday 2 December and the 2024 NACCHO Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 3 December. A Conference dinner will be held on Wednesday 4 December.

If you are thinking about coming to the NACCHO Conference, the only way to register is via the NACCHO Website – www.naccho.org.au/conference. We are using the secure Cvent system for registrations. NACCHO will not call you directly about registering for the conference.

 If you have any queries, please contact the NACCHO Conference Team: conference@naccho.org.au

To register, go here.

14 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Advancing First Nations pathways for diabetes prevention

More than 500 new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers will receive diabetes prevention training as part of a new partnership between the Bupa Foundation and The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).

The project will see the development of a specialist diabetes prevention training pathway that includes developing culturally safe training and assessment resources, delivery of face-to-face training sessions and integration into existing local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations. Diabetes is three times more prevalent among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, contributing significantly to kidney disease, heart disease, dementia, and other health issues.

NACCHO CEO, Pat Turner said NACCHO is committed to driving meaningful, community-led healthcare solutions.

“This partnership with the Bupa Foundation allows us to address diabetes prevention directly within our communities by training over 500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers.

“Culturally informed, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led training is essential to reversing the impact of diabetes and improving health outcomes. By working with Bupa, we’re building a pathway to strengthen our healthcare workforce and bring us closer to closing the health gap in our communities,” Pat added.

To read the media release in full, go here.

Cervical Screening at Red Lily Health

The cervical screening program rolled out in the Warruwi community is currently showing strong performance, with an impressive uptake of services among participants. The recent statistics indicate a positive trend, reflecting increasing engagement and satisfaction.

Red Lily Health Board said: “This underscores the effectiveness of our initiatives and highlights the community’s growing reliance on the support provided. Overall, these encouraging outcomes suggest that we are on the right track in meeting the needs of those we serve.”

For more information on Cervical Screening, go here.

Image source: Red Lily Health Board.

AMSANT urges NT government to halt “harmful” transfer of child inmates from Alice Springs to Darwin

The Northern Territory’s Aboriginal community-controlled peak health body has called on the new CLP government to halt the “harmful” transfer of child inmates from Alice Springs to Darwin and prioritise “community-based, culturally safe alternatives”.

The Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) said the relocation of children was causing “unnecessary and long-term harm to their wellbeing”.

John Paterson, AMSANT Chief executive said the move would “disproportionately” impact vulnerable Indigenous children, exacerbating the impacts of the recently announced lowering of the age of criminal responsibility to 10-years-of-age.

“Many young people held in these settings have complex health needs, including mental health issues, neurodevelopmental conditions, and substance dependence, which cannot be adequately managed in a centralised detention environment,” Dr Paterson said.

“Transfers disrupt the ability for services to continue to provide culturally appropriate continuity of care – increasing the likelihood of negative health outcomes.”

Read more here.

Australian Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory CEO John Paterson. (Image: Mitch Woolnough/ABC News)

Learn how digital tools are transforming medicine management in ACCHOs

Alice Nugent, Pharmacist Advisor at NACCHO is set to speak at the National Medicines Symposium 2024 on Tuesday, November 19. She will explore how digital tools are transforming medicine management in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). Alice will share practical examples, highlight enablers and barriers, and discuss potential ideas to closing the digital gaps in rural and remote settings.

For more information on the National Medicines Symposium 2024, go here.

Image source: Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Movember Webinar: International Male Health Day

Alongside Movember, Tuesday 19 November marks International Male Health Day and the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Team at AMSANT has arranged a very important webinar for NT members and male health groups throughout the territory and nationally.

The AMSANT NT Indigenous Male Health and Wellbeing Webinar will discuss how to improve support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait males who in many cases are taking their first steps on a journey of improved health, social and emotional and wellbeing.

For more information and to register, go here.

Image source: AMSANT.

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference

The 2024 NACCHO Members’ Conference will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December as part of a broader program commencing on Sunday 1 December with the NACCHO Men’s Health Day, NACCHO Youth Conference on Monday 2 December and the 2024 NACCHO Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 3 December. A Conference dinner will be held on Wednesday 4 December.

If you are thinking about coming to the NACCHO Conference, the only way to register is via the NACCHO Website – www.naccho.org.au/conference. We are using the secure Cvent system for registrations. NACCHO will not call you directly about registering for the conference.

 If you have any queries, please contact the NACCHO Conference Team: conference@naccho.org.au

To register, go here.

8 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare heroes among winners at National Rural and Remote Health Awards

NACCHO extends its congratulations to all winners and nominees celebrated at the 2024 National Rural and Remote Health Awards, which brought together nearly 200 rural health professionals and guests at the National Press Club in Canberra. This event, organised by Rural Health Pro and supported by the Rural Doctors Network, shines a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of healthcare providers serving rural and remote communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The winners included the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress Aboriginal Corporation in NT, which received the Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healthcare award.

Donna Ah Chee, also from the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, was honoured with the Excellence in Rural/Remote Health Administration award, showcasing her dedication to advancing health outcomes for Indigenous communities. These recognitions underscore the vital work of individuals and organisations devoted to the health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in remote areas.

To read more, go here.

Image Source: Winners of the Rural & Remote Health Innovator of the Year Award: Yarning up After Stroke, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW. Image: National Rural & Remote Health Awards.

Image Source: Winners of the Rural & Remote Health Innovator of the Year Award: Yarning up After Stroke, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW. Image: National Rural & Remote Health Awards.

New Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu program launched to support Mullewa youth

The Binmaga Barndimanmanha Mayu’s Program 2024, launched by the WA Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) and the Mullewa community, is a significant six-month initiative focused on empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Mullewa.

Meaning “fixing up a healthy mind” for young people in Wajarri. The program addresses rising anti-social behaviours by promoting cultural pride, resilience, and positive engagement. Developed in collaboration with the Mullewa community, WA Police, Binmaga Cultural Experience (BCE), and other local organisations, this program responds to the community’s call for meaningful youth activities.

The program, grounded in four pillars—Education, Cultural Experience, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, and Transport—provides structured support. Educational workshops encourage responsible decision-making in culturally safe spaces. The 24-week Yamaji-inspired dance classes led by Indigenous dance instructors deepen cultural identity and pride.

Safe Yarning sessions, supported by Headspace Geraldton and the Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation, offer mental health support to strengthen social and emotional wellbeing.

To read more, go here.

Credit: Binmaga Yamatji Dance Group YSRC NAIDOC Week performance. (Image: Gina Jenkin).

Credit: Binmaga Yamatji Dance Group YSRC NAIDOC Week performance. (Image: Gina Jenkin).

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the spirit of allyship

The need for non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander allies in rural and remote health sectors to support the rights and health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through tangible acts of allyship is now important than ever.

Speaking at the National Conference for Rural and Remote Allied Health, Kylie Stothers, a Jawoyn woman and leader in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander allied health, emphasised that allyship involves consistent, small actions—such as displaying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media in health centres or advocating for Indigenous workforce development. Stothers also highlighted that cultural and family-centred care is essential for effective health outcomes.

To read more, go here.

Image credit: Back L-R: Chris Lee, Ian Lee, Cory Paulson. From L-R: Lucinda Collins, Sylvia Rosas, Kylie Stothers, Dr Stephanie Trust. Photo by Laura Stuart (SARRAH Board Director).

Image credit: Back L-R: Chris Lee, Ian Lee, Cory Paulson. From L-R: Lucinda Collins, Sylvia Rosas, Kylie Stothers, Dr Stephanie Trust. Photo by Laura Stuart (SARRAH Board Director).

First Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander neurologist advocates for stroke prevention measures for First Nations communities

Dr Angela Dos Santos, Australia’s first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander neurologist, points out that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face a higher incidence and earlier onset of stroke, often due to higher rates of health risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, along with inequities in healthcare access and treatment.

The Stroke Foundation and health experts emphasise that 80% of strokes are preventable, with timely identification being crucial. Using tools like the FAST acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call 000) and promoting regular health checks in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are key steps.

Dr. Dos Santos advocates for community-led education, prevention, and research efforts to better address the specific needs of First Nations communities. By involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in these initiatives, there’s potential to foster culturally sensitive care, enhance stroke awareness, and improve early detection and intervention outcomes.

To read more, go here.

Image credit: Dr Angela Dos Santos. Image: Kristian Silva (ABC).

Image credit: Dr Angela Dos Santos. Image: Kristian Silva (ABC).

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

4 November 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

NACCHO National Youth Conference 2024

Calling all young people aged 18-26, this is your opportunity to make your voice heard and help shape the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. The 2024 NACCHO National Youth Conference is just around the corner, happening on Monday, December 2nd, on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country at the National Convention Centre in Canberra.

The National Youth Conference will bring together up to 100 youth from around Australia to gain experience and exposure to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sector on a national level. During the conference the youth will engage in discussion, share their experience and learn from other peers from across the country. The conference will allow the youth to learn about informing policy, influencing change and provide a pathway so their voices are heard and represented by NACCHO throughout the sector.

For more information and to register, go here.

 

We need to better understand how exercise can help diabetes

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are three times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Indigenous Australians and are 4.4 times more likely to die from it. Among other factors, physical activity plays an important role in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. But a new study, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, shows we don’t know enough about the role of physical activity in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

As well as playing a role in diabetes prevention, there’s good evidence exercise is beneficial for people already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Physical activity has been associated with lower levels of glycated haemoglobin in the blood (an index of glucose control), reduced blood lipids such as cholesterol, and weight loss. Evidence suggests a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise may be superior to either mode alone.

Factors that might influence the uptake of physical activity among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people include access to safe, accessible, family-friendly and inexpensive locations to do exercise. These can be limited in regional and remote communities.

Given physical activity is a cornerstone in the management of type 2 diabetes, we need more rigorous research in this area. These studies must be well designed and culturally appropriate. They must involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at all levels of the research process.

To read The Conversation article in full, go here.

Image source: The Conversation.

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress shows us how the Connected Beginnings program operates in their community

The first 5 years of a child’s life is so important for their development. These are the years where growing up in a supportive and engaging environment can help set the trajectory of their life.

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress shows us how the Connected Beginnings program operates in their community of Mpwarntwe/Alice Springs. Congress provides wrap-around and culturally safe supports for Aboriginal children and their families so that they are equipped with the right tools to thrive in their early childhood education and care journeys.

To learn more about the Connected Beginnings program, go here.

Health workers head south for Deadly Sex Congress

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sexual health and health workers from across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area have returned home better informed and prepared to serve their communities after attending a sexual health conference in Brisbane earlier this month. The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) cohort headed to the state capital from 9-10 October for the 2024 Deadly Sex Congress, an annual forum for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners.

Information sessions included updates on current and emerging issues in blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Lily-Annie Ahmat, TCHHS men’s and women’s health program co-ordinator said the congress represented an invaluable opportunity for attendees to enhance their knowledge, build workforce capacity, and share stories.

To read more, go here.

Indigenous health and sexual health workers from the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area made the trek south to attend the Deadly Sex Congress in Brisbane earlier this month. Photo: Supplied to Cape York Weekly.

Providing sustainable dialysis services to families in remote Australia

In a community-led initiative, Flinders University Rural and Remote Health and Wakaid Tribal Council are working together to plan the building of a new renal unit that will provide vital dialysis treatment for patients with advanced kidney disease on Badu Island (Queensland). The project has received $3.5 million from the Federal Department of Health and Aged Care Better Renal Services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ program to establish a four-chair nurse/ health worker assisted haemodialysis unit in Badu Island, servicing families of Badu Island, Mao Island and Mabuyag Island.

Flinders University’s Professor Jaquelyne Hughes, a Wagadagam woman of Mabuyag Island is delighted to be part of the team contributing to health advancement within communities of the near western region (Badu, Kubin, St Paul and Mabuyag).

“My cultural acceptance within that community is important, as both family and in terms of the research technical leadership, because the project is such a community-led initiative,” says Professor Hughes.

“By opening a renal unit on Badu Island, it means people will have options to receive care locally, as they have previously needed to relocate to Waibene, or mainland Australia, to receive treatment.”

To read more, go here.

Image source: Getty Images.

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.