Tag Archives: Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #Jobalerts #Scholarshipalerts as at 17 October : This week features Clinic Manager @CAACongress Doctor @IUIH_ @VACCHO_org #NT @MiwatjHealth @CAACongress #QLD @Deadlychoices @ATSICHSBris @Apunipima #Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre

This weeks #ACCHO #Jobalerts

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

 

1.1 Job/s of the week 

1.2 National Aboriginal Health Scholarships 

Indigenous Scholarship helps close the gap in leadership and disability support closing Oct 31

Australian Hearing / University of Queensland

APNA Transition to Practice Program (TPP) 

2.Queensland 

    2.1 Apunipima ACCHO Cape York

    2.2 IUIH ACCHO Deadly Choices Brisbane and throughout Queensland

    2.3 ATSICHS ACCHO Brisbane

3.NT Jobs Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

   3.1 Congress ACCHO Alice Spring

   3.2 Miwatj Health ACCHO Arnhem Land

   3.3 Wurli ACCHO Katherine

   3.4 Sunrise ACCHO Katherine

4. South Australia

   4.1 Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

5. Western Australia

  5.1 Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc

  5.2 Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

6.Victoria

6.1 Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

6.2 Mallee District Aboriginal Services Mildura Swan Hill Etc 

6.3 : Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative 2 POSITIONS VACANT

7.New South Wales

7.1 AHMRC Sydney and Rural 

8. Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre ACCHO 

9.Canberra ACT Winnunga ACCHO

10. Other : Stakeholders Indigenous Health 

UNSW Director of Indigenous Health Education

The Lime Network : EVENT AND PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholders

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health 

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

Over 302 ACCHO clinics See all websites by state territory 

General Practitioner – Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH) closes 31 October 

What do we do?

The Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH) was established to provide a coordinated and integrated approach to the planning, development and delivery of primary health care services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations within the South East Qld Region. The IUIH is a lead agency working in partnership with key stakeholders to support the effective implementation of the Council of Australian Governments ‘Closing the Gap’ initiatives.

  • Join this dynamic organisation and work to close the gap with a committed training and development team
  • Competitive Salary Sacrifice arrangements are available

This role: The position is responsible for the provision of General Practitioner services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and families as part of a multi-disciplinary team of medical and health staff, within the operational framework of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander community controlled Health Service.

The position will be responsible for:

  • Provide clinical services to clients in line with national ethical, legal and clinical standards of general practice care
  • Maintaining sensitive information within an electronic record system, utilising the information to support individual client care and identify population health needs/gaps
  • Establishing and upholding positive working relationships with other health care providers to ensure optimal coordination of care and advocacy for clients
  • Working closely with the Practice Manager to anticipate, identify and provide referral pathways to clients for further services
  • Overseeing the delivery of preventative health assessments for clients of different ages and coordinate/lead care planning for those with complex chronic needs with the multidisciplinary team
  • Uptake and income generation across the service through MBS billings
  • Preparing reports and legal summaries for government departments such as Work cover and Centrelink

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • Understanding of the health, social and emotional wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within Urban areas
  • Demonstrated clinical experience with the ability to perform comprehensive patient assessments in order to plan, implement and evaluate clinical/primary health care strategies including appropriate investigations, treatment and referrals under a ‘best practice’ approach
  • Capability to motivate a team of clinicians and health professionals to achieve identified outcomes
  • Interpersonal, written and oral communication skills to effectively communicate in the workplace
  • Knowledge in the Medicare Benefits Schedule along with competence in the use of Business Technology, internet and desktop applications
  • Flexibility to work outside regular hours (including late nights and Saturdays) to meet operational delivery requirements
  • Current AHPRA registration (as an AHPRA registered health professional, your registration includes the assessment of a national criminal history check and the provisions of the Blue Card requirements)
  • MBBS and unconditional registration with the Medical Board of Australia and Specialist GP recognition/Vocational Registration and eligible to obtain provider number in the required locations
  • A Current C Class Drivers Licence (Qld) with the ability to travel across South East Queensland (SEQ) as required

In return, you will be rewarded with the opportunity to develop your career within this organisation that truly values its people.

Enquiries regarding the position can be directed to:

Lavarna Young via email on Lavarna.young@iuih.org.au

Applications (Resume and brief Covering Letter) must be submitted via Seek 

APPLICATIONS CLOSE – Wednesday, October 31 2018

SEEK APPLY 

Congress Alice Springs CLINIC MANAGER – SADADEEN Closing 26 October 

Reference: 4370504
  • Base Salary: $94,614 – $118,443 (p.a.)
  • Total Effective Package: $116,886 – $143,460 (p.a.)*
  • Full time, Continuous contract

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (Congress) has over 40 years’ experience providing comprehensive primary health care for Aboriginal people living in Central Australia. Congress is seeking a Clinic Manager who is interested in making a genuine contribution to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people.

The Clinic Manager provides leadership, management and coordination of comprehensive primary health care to the Sadadeen Clinic, ensuring cultural integrity and high standards of clinical care and client flow.

Alice Springs offers a unique lifestyle in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Australia. It is within easy reach of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Watarrka (Kings Canyon) and a host of other world heritage sites.

As well as a wonderful lifestyle and rewarding work, Congress offers the following:

  • Competitive salaries
  • Six (6) weeks’ annual leave
  • 9.5% superannuation
  • Generous salary packaging
  • A strong commitment to Professional Development
  • Family friendly conditions
  • Relocation assistance (where applicable)
  • District allowance

For a confidential chat, you can call our Medical Director, Dr Sam Heard on (08) 8951 4458.

To find out more about what is on offer or to apply to the role please visit http://www.caac.org.au/hr & enter ref code: 4370504.

*Total effective package includes: base salary, district allowance, superannuation, leave loading, and estimated tax saving from salary packaging options.

Applications Close: 26 Oct 2018

VACCHO State-wide Tobacco Co-ordinator 

VACCHO is the peak representative for the health and well being of Aboriginal people in Victoria, and champions community control and health equality for Aboriginal communities. We are a centre of expertise, policy advice, training, innovation and leadership in Aboriginal health. VACCHO advocates for the health equality and optimum health of all Aboriginal people in Victoria.

We are looking for someone who is knowledgeable in health control protocol, specifically in tobacco would be a distinct advantage – to lead our various innovative health change programs. In this role, your primary focus will be to support Victorian Aboriginal communities to reduce smoking rates, using a range of research and implementation strategies.

Your days will be varied, and will involve continuous communication with various government departments, and liaison with a range of internal stakeholders. Key to your skill set will be your solid report writing skills, up to date research competency, and a can do attitude to turn best practice theory into actual action.

You’ll be on the road working directly with our Member organisations, will work closely with fantastic internal teams, and be a part of a broader family in our very supportive office environment.

We are looking for someone who can build and maintain solid relationships, can manage projects effectively, and has excellent organisation and time management skills. You’ll be familiar with harm reduction models and implementing initiatives, and importantly, you’ll be passionate about reducing smoking rates in Victorian Aboriginal communities.

Experience working with Aboriginal organisations, communities and individuals in culturally appropriate ways will be critical to your success in the role.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Straight Islander people to apply.

If this sounds like the job you are looking for, please review a copy of the Position Description.

To apply, please email a copy of your resume and Application Form to Human Resources.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Remote Health Centre Coordinator Beagle Bay Health Centre

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services LTD (KAMS) is a well-established regional Aboriginal community controlled health service, founded in 1986, which provides centralised advocacy and resource support for 6 independent member services, as well as providing direct clinical services in a further 6 remote Aboriginal communities across the region.

Clinical services at Beagle Bay Health Centre have been provided by KAMS on behalf of the community of Beagle Bay since 1985. The Beagle Bay Community is a member of KAMS and has representation on the KAMS governing committee.

Beagle Bay Health Centre is a comprehensive Primary Health Care service staffed by General Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers.

About the Opportunity

KAMS now has a rewarding opportunity for a Remote Health Centre Coordinator to join their multidisciplinary team based in Beagle Bay, WA. This role will be offered on a full-time 6 weeks on, two weeks off roster basis.

In this role, you will be responsible for assisting the Health Centre Manager with the general management and day-to-day operations of a remote clinic providing leadership and support to the Beagle Bay health team.

Some of your key responsibilities will include (but will not be limited to):

  • Promoting and advocating health services with the local community Council;
  • Administering and maintaining clinical standards including all clinical assets according to standard policy and procedures;
  • Ensuring quality improvements are carried out and met to the required health clinical standards;
  • Managing workforce, including recruitment and orientation, staff development, performance, training, clinical supervision and in-service education;
  • Planning and reporting on a regular basis with senior management;
  • Ensuring staff have access to appropriate systems/programs/resources to enable them to perform their duties; and
  • Attending, and participating in, regular KAMS senior management meetings.

About the Benefits

KAMS is an organisation that truly values its team, and is committed to improving employee knowledge, skills and experience. In addition, staff development programs are not only encouraged but are often paid for by KAMS. These are highly attractive opportunities for someone with a desire to develop their professional knowledge and experience in the area of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health!

There is also a wide range of fantastic additional benefits for the role, including:

  • Attractive base salary of $107,599 PLUS Super;
  • Accommodation provided whilst in the community;
  • District allowance of $2,149(single) and $4,298 (double);
  • Annual airfare $1,285 every 12 months;
  • Isolation airfares of $1,200; and
  • 25% of base salary for on call.

Working closely with patients, their families and carers, this is a role where you will witness the direct positive impact you’re making in the community, as part of a close-knit KAMS team. You will be continually recognised for your dedication and hard work!

APPLY HERE

Aboriginal Health Worker Griffith NSW
Employment Type: Permanent Part Time
Position Classification: Aboriginal Health Worker
Remuneration: $51,608 – $76,009 per annum pro rata
Hours Per Week: 32
Requisition ID: REQ28400
Applications close: 24 October 2018
Aboriginal Targeted RoleImmerse yourself in a supportive and collaborative team environmentWhere you will be workingGriffith Base Hospital is a 117 bed C1 peer grouped  hospital providing a range of acute specialist services (both resident & visiting) including emergency medicine, general medicine,  surgery, paediatric medicine, oncology, obstetrics, intensive care, respiratory medicine, renal dialysis and rheumatology.  Each year there are approximately 19,500 emergency presentations, 2,500 operations and 540 births. Additional services at Griffith Base Hospital include physiotherapy, dietetics, pharmacy, occupational therapy and Aboriginal health.
There are also a range of diagnostic services including Pathology, CT, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, General X-Ray and Mammography.Learn more about the benefits and lifestyle of GriffithWhat you will be doingThe position is a vital part of supporting and monitoring the journey and access of the Aboriginal patient through the hospital and health systems.
The position will provide emotional, practical, social and welfare support; health education opportunities for Aboriginal inpatients and communities: work with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal health staff to develop and implement programs and strategies for improving health outcomes for the Aboriginal individuals and communities

.The Aboriginal Health Worker has to be multi skilled to be able to deliver an appropriate service to meet the needs of Aboriginal patients from diverse cultural backgrounds, and to act effectively as cultural brokers between the Aboriginal patients and hospital system to ensure a two way understanding of the need to balance cultural needs and healthcare.Selection Criteria

  • Must be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent NB (applicants race is a genuine occupational qualification and Authorized by Section 14 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977, NSW) and have demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
  • TAFE or other qualifications in an appropriate health or welfare related discipline and/or extensive relevant experience in these fields
  • Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of current Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander health priorities and ability to effectively and sensitively liaise and communicate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities
  • Demonstrated skills in client assessment, support, assistance and advocacy in health or related field and have the ability to develop and delivery culturally appropriate programs and resources

Please refer to the Position Description for the essential requirements and full selection criteria. All criteria must be addressed in your application.

Additional Information

  • Please note that to apply for this position you must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, or be able to independently and legally live and work in Australia.  For more information, please see www.immi.gov.au

Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Michelle Druitt on Michelle.Druitt@health.nsw.gov.au

MLHD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage all suitably qualified applicants to apply, including Aboriginal People and people from racial, ethnic or ethno-religious minority groups and people with disability.

To view the position description or submit your applications please click the ‘Apply’ button below.

Indigenous Scholarship helps close the gap in leadership and disability support closing Otober 31

” The course is giving me greater knowledge for responding to the needs of our clients with disabilities so we can give our mob the best possible outcomes.”

The scholarship has proved very beneficial to the inaugural recipient, Carroll Towney of Galambila Aboriginal Health Services, who continues to go from strength to strength. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the country with an interest in disability services are encouraged to apply. Distance is no barrier as UNE is an online university, so anyone with an internet connection can study the course.

This scholarship was borne out of a joint initiative between Growing Potential Limited and the University of New England (UNE) aimed at strengthening Indigenous leadership in the disability sector.

Chief Executive Officer Mr. Otto Henfling said that Growing Potential is dedicated to empowering Indigenous people in all areas of their lives.

“With our commitment to Indigenous and allied health services through our Windaan and Growing Early Minds brands, we saw a need to help others build their Indigenous businesses in the NDIS and disability space. 

Mr. Henfling said.

“The scholarship is our way of giving back; to help Indigenous people reach their education and leadership goals so they can provide culturally appropriate supports to their own communities.” 

The scholarship will support an Indigenous recipient to study UNE’s Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development – the first course of it’s kind.

This two-year, part-time course was developed by UNE in consultation with the disability sector to help organisations adapt to the new NDIS client-centred business model. 

The content is highly relevant to industry and equips students with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the issues affecting the disability sector, in particular, legal processes and obligations applicable to organisational business development priorities in the NDIS.

The scholarship has proved very beneficial to the inaugural recipient, Carroll Towney of Galambila Aboriginal Health Services, who continues to go from strength to strength. 

“The course is giving me greater knowledge for responding to the needs of our clients with disabilities so we can give our mob the best possible outcomes.” Carroll said.

Applications for the 2019 Scholarship close on 31 October 2018. The finalist will be announced at a Scholarship Ceremony to be held in March 2019.

 More INFO APPLY HERE 

Australian Hearing / University of Queensland


 

APNA Transition to Practice Program (TPP) 

Trying to find your feet in primary health care or want to try your hand at mentoring nurses new to primary health care?
This program will help you grow your skills, knowledge and confidence and set you up in your career. The 12-month program will support the transitioning nurse through tailored CPD, mentorship and support in primary health care settings such as (but not limited to) general practice, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health care services and community health.
Applications now open.
For more information and to apply, visitwww.apna.asn.au/transitiontopractice
Building Nurse Capacity
Are you looking to take the next step in your career? Want to learn new skills and knowledge so you can deliver a new model of care?
The Building Nurse Capacity Project will focus on the development of nurse-led (team-based) models of care that meet local population health needs, and contribute to building the capacity of the healthcare team. Grant funding and APNA support will be provided to successful applicants.  It will help you promote close collaboration between nurses and health practitioners, as well as the primary health care sector, health leaders, organisations and consumers, thanks to the team-based care approach.
Applications now open.

 

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholders

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health 

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

2.1 There are 4 JOBS AT Apunipima Cairns and Cape York

The links to  job vacancies are on website

 


www.apunipima.org.au/work-for-us

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

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

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

Current vacancies

NT Jobs Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

3.1 There are 12 JOBS at Congress Alice Springs including

 

More info and apply HERE

3.2 There are 19 JOBS at Miwatj Health Arnhem Land

 

More info and apply HERE

3.3 There are 5 JOBS at Wurli Katherine

 

Current Vacancies

  • Program Coordinator (Syphilis Enhanced Response)

  • Registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Syphilis Enhanced Response)

  • Community Engagement Support Officer / Sexual Health Educator (CESO)

  • General Practitioner

  • Registered Nurse

  • Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Clinical)

More info and apply HERE

3.4 Sunrise ACCHO Katherine

Sunrise Job site

4. South Australia

   4.1 Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

Nunkuwarrin Yunti places a strong focus on a client centred approach to the delivery of services and a collaborative working culture to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. View our current vacancies here.

 

NUNKU SA JOB WEBSITE 

5. Western Australia

5.1 Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc. is passionate about creating a strong and dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander workforce. We are committed to providing mentorship and training to our team members to enhance their skills for them to be able to create career pathways and opportunities in life.

On occasions we may have vacancies for the positions listed below:

  • Medical Receptionists – casual pool
  • Transport Drivers – casual pool
  • General Hands – casual pool, rotating shifts
  • Aboriginal Health Workers (Cert IV in Primary Health) –casual pool

*These positions are based in one or all of our sites – East Perth, Midland, Maddington, Mirrabooka or Bayswater.

To apply for a position with us, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Detailed CV
  • WA National Police Clearance – no older than 6 months
  • WA Driver’s License – full license
  • Contact details of 2 work related referees
  • Copies of all relevant certificates and qualifications

We may also accept Expression of Interests for other medical related positions which form part of our services. However please note, due to the volume on interests we may not be able to respond to all applications and apologise for that in advance.

All complete applications must be submitted to our HR department or emailed to HR

Also in accordance with updated privacy legislation acts, please download, complete and return this Permission to Retain Resume form

Attn: Human Resources
Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc.
156 Wittenoom Street
East Perth WA 6004

+61 (8) 9421 3888

 

DYHS JOB WEBSITE

 5.2 Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

https://kamsc-iframe.applynow.net.au/

KAMS JOB WEBSITE

6.Victoria

6.1 Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

 

Thank you for your interest in working at the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

If you would like to lodge an expression of interest or to apply for any of our jobs advertised at VAHS we have two types of applications for you to consider.

Expression of interest

Submit an expression of interest for a position that may become available to: employment@vahs.org.au

This should include a covering letter outlining your job interest(s), an up to date resume and two current employment referees

Your details will remain on file for a period of 12 months. Resumes on file are referred to from time to time as positions arise with VAHS and you may be contacted if another job matches your skills, experience and/or qualifications. Expressions of interest are destroyed in a confidential manner after 12 months.

Applying for a Current Vacancy

Unless the advertisement specifies otherwise, please follow the directions below when applying

Your application/cover letter should include:

  • Current name, address and contact details
  • A brief discussion on why you feel you would be the appropriate candidate for the position
  • Response to the key selection criteria should be included – discussing how you meet these

Your Resume should include:

  • Current name, address and contact details
  • Summary of your career showing how you have progressed to where you are today. Most recent employment should be first. For each job that you have been employed in state the Job Title, the Employer, dates of employment, your duties and responsibilities and a brief summary of your achievements in the role
  • Education, include TAFE or University studies completed and the dates. Give details of any subjects studies that you believe give you skills relevant to the position applied for
  • References, where possible, please include 2 employment-related references and one personal character reference. Employment references must not be from colleagues, but from supervisors or managers that had direct responsibility of your position.

Ensure that any referees on your resume are aware of this and permission should be granted.

How to apply:

Send your application, response to the key selection criteria and your resume to:

employment@vahs.org.au

All applications must be received by the due date unless the previous extension is granted.

When applying for vacant positions at VAHS, it is important to know the successful applicants are chosen on merit and suitability for the role.

VAHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to ensuring that staff selection procedures are fair to all applicants regardless of their sex, race, marital status, sexual orientation, religious political affiliations, disability, or any other matter covered by the Equal Opportunity Act

You will be assessed based on a variety of criteria:

  • Your application, which includes your application letter which address the key selection criteria and your resume
  • Verification of education and qualifications
  • An interview (if you are shortlisted for an interview)
  • Discussions with your referees (if you are shortlisted for an interview)
  • You must have the right to live and work in Australia
  • Employment is conditional upon the receipt of:
    • A current Working with Children Check
    • A current National Police Check
    • Any licenses, certificates and insurances

6.2 Mallee District Aboriginal Services Mildura Swan Hill Etc 

Alcohol and Other Drugs Support Worker (Mildura)
Mental Health Nurse (Mildura)
AOD Life Skills Worker (Wiimpatja Healing Centre)
Midwife (Mildura)
Maternal and Child Health Nurse (Mildura)
General Practitioner (Swan Hill)

MDAS Jobs website 

6.3 : Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative 2 POSITIONS VACANT

http://www.rumbalara.org.au/vacancies

7.New South Wales

7.1 AHMRC Sydney and Rural 

Check website for current Opportunities

 

8. Tasmania

 

TAC JOBS AND TRAINING WEBSITE

9.Canberra ACT Winnunga ACCHO

 

Winnunga ACCHO Job opportunites 

10. Other : Stakeholders Indigenous Health 

UNSW Director of Indigenous Health Education

Apply nowJob no: 495137

Work type: Fixed term / Part time
Location: Sydney, NSW
Categories: Head of School / Director

  • Unique newly created opportunity
  • Significantly contribute to trends, initiatives and directions in Indigenous health education at UNSW
  • Fixed term – Part time (0.5 FTE) for 36 months
  • Location – Sydney NSW Australia

The Organisation

UNSW Medicine is a national leader in learning, teaching and research, with close affiliations to a number of Australia’s finest hospitals, research institutes and health care organisations. With a strong presence at UNSW Kensington campus, the faculty have staff and students in teaching hospitals in Sydney as well as regional and rural areas of NSW including Albury/Wodonga, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.

The Opportunity

The Director of Indigenous Health Education is responsible for providing strategic advice and support to the Senior Vice Dean Education as well as curriculum development and oversight regarding education on Indigenous health-related issues. The Director of Indigenous Health Education will work with the Senior Vice Dean Education, Associate Dean Education, Medicine Program Authority, Chairs of Medicine Phase and Curriculum Development Committees, Program Authority for Exercise Physiology as well as Program Authorities for Medicine’s postgraduate coursework programs and other key areas of the University to develop and contribute towards Indigenous health-related teaching.

  • Fixed term – Part time (0.5 FTE) for 36 months
  • Academic Level C: $125, 160 – $143, 593 plus 17% superannuation and leave loading

Responsibilities will include:

  • Collaborate with the Senior Vice Dean (Education) and Associate Dean (Education), Program Authorities and Committees to define Faculty goals to support Indigenous health education, including indigenous-health related curriculum development and Indigenous student recruitment and retention.
  • Provide strategic advice and assistance to the Associate Dean Education on all matters relating to Indigenous health education.
  • Provide advice to the Senior Vice Dean (Education) on trends, initiatives and directions in Indigenous health education and be responsible for the oversight of Indigenous health curricula within UNSW Medicine.
  • Work with UNSW Medicine and other university members to forward various Aboriginal statements and reconciliation action plans, include UNSW Elders.
  • Provide support and guidance to students regarding Indigenous matters.
  • Work with the Director of Development and Engagement to promote Indigenous philanthropy across the faculty.

About the Successful Applicant

  • Bachelors degree, ideally in the field of education or Indigenous health. Masters or PhD in the fields of education or Indigenous health would be an advantage.
  • Can demonstrate a thorough understanding of the issues, directions and challenges in indigenous health.
  • Knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history or extensive experience working with Indigenous peoples.
  • Sound understanding of University and Faculty administration, practices, policies and procedures.
  • Proven record of management experience with effective strategic leadership and team building capabilities, ideally within a higher education environment.

You should systematically address the selection criteria from the position description in your application. Click Link for the Position Description Download File PD – Director of Indigenous Health Education.pdf

Please apply online – applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:

Professor Gary Velan – Senior Vice Dean of Education

E: g.velan@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11pm 5th November 2018

This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only.  UNSW has obtained an exemption under section 126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW) to designate and recruit professional and academic positions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons only, to fulfil UNSW’s goal of a representative workforce rate.

Position Description

Advertised: AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: AUS Eastern Daylight Time

APPLY HERE 

The Lime Network : EVENT AND PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR (INDIGENOUS APPLICANTS ONLY)

NACCHO Aboriginal Health Conferences and events : Announcing Co-Director of Canada’s UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health Associate Professor Nadine Caron MD as #NACCHOAgm2018 31 Oct – Nov 2 keynote speaker

 

This Month

Watch 2 videos of Co-Director of Canada’s UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health Associate Professor Nadine Caron MD the #NACCHOAgm2018  31 Oct – Nov 2 keynote speaker

NACCHO AGM 2018 Brisbane Oct 31—Nov 2 Registrations now open : Download the Program 

Future events /conferences

Now open: Aged Care Regional, Rural and Remote Infrastructure Grant opportunity.$500,000  closes 24 October 2018

The fourth annual Indigenous Business Month this year will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in business, to coincide with the 2018 NAIDOC theme Because of Her, We Can.

 

Wiyi Yani U Thangani Women’s Voices project. 

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander HIV Awareness Week (ATSIHAW) 28th November to 5th December : Expression of Interest open but close 26 October

2018 International Indigenous Allied Health Forum at the Mercure Hotel, Sydney, Australia on the 30 November 2018

AIDA Conference 2018 Vision into Action

Healing Our Spirit Worldwide
2nd National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Conference 20-21 November Perth

2019 Close the Gap for Vision by 2020 – National Conference 2019

Announcing Co-Director of Canada’s UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health Associate Professor Nadine Caron MD as #NACCHOAgm2018                         30 Oct – Nov 2 keynote speaker

Dr Caron will speak at the NACCHO Annual Conference  about her experiences at UBC’s Centre for Excellence

Dr. Nadine Caron is breaking new ground in both surgical rooms and research labs.

As the first indigenous woman to earn an M.D. from UBC, she is now leading the way for Canada’s first northern biobank, a critical repository of biological samples that could lead to major medical breakthroughs.

The Anishnaabe word for doctor is Mshkikiininiikwe. Dr. Caron is that, and so much more.

Nadine currently resides in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. She provides surgical oncology care for those that call rural and remote Canada home.

Nadine is also an associate professor in the UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Department of Surgery where she teaches in the Northern medical program. During her surgical residency, Nadine completed a Master’s in public Health from Harvard University and was awarded UBC’s top student award.

Nadine was also appointed as an Associate Faculty member of the Bloomberg school of public health, Johns Hopkins University where she teaches for the Centre for American Indian Health.

Nadine is Anishnawbe from Sagamok First Nation. Her work involves a variety of audiences and knowledge users including governments, provincial health authorities, national medical organisations, health research funding bodies, and several universities to achieve identified and overlapping objectives.

In 2014 Dr Caron was appointed Co-Director of the UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health located at UBC’s School of Population and Public Health.

Dr Caron will speak about her experiences at UBC’s Centre for Excellence

Meet Canada’s 1st female Indigenous surgeon

As Canada’s first female First Nations general surgeon, Dr. Nadine Caron says she knows, first-hand, that there’s a lot of work to be done to tackle institutional racism and encourage Indigenous youth to seek careers in health care.

From CTV News 

Caron practices in northern British Columbia and also works as a teacher at the University of Northern British Columbia’s medical school in Prince George, B.C. Throughout her career, she says she has witnessed racism and experienced it firsthand at work.

“I hear it. I hear it from patients,” Caron told CTV’s Your Morning on Tuesday. “I hear about experiences they’ve had in the past – that they’ve had in other places – and then all you can do is change the here and now and make sure it’s different in the future.”

Caron is tackling systemic discrimination in the medical profession through education. As part of her work at the University of Northern British Columbia, Caron is helping to create a new curriculum to train future health care professionals on how to prevent racism against Indigenous people in the profession.

“They’re going to enter the workforce with, not only the tools to be able to have the ability to have that cultural safety and humility, but they’re also going to leave with the responsibility that they don’t have an option this time around,” she explained.

Caron is also working on combating the problem of access to healthcare that is widespread in many northern First Nations and rural communities. Long wait times, high rates of staff turnover, inadequate human resources and harsh climates make it difficult to provide adequate services.

Even though they can’t change the weather, Caron said improved technologies, such as telehealth, has made health care more accessible for those in isolated regions. She also said they’re training more physicians to increase staff in those areas and ensuring those medical professionals are equipped with “cultural competency” and “humility” to work effectively in those communities.

Eventually, Caron said she hopes there will be more Indigenous medical professionals, so that it’s no longer considered a “big deal” or anything out of the ordinary.

“When you walk in and you have a Metis surgeon, an Inuit doctor, a First Nations dentist, when you no longer blink an eye, we’ve made it,” she said.

For any First Nations youth considering a career in health care, Caron advised them to focus on something that they will be passionate about.

“It’s hard,” Caron said. “It’s a challenging career but if you love something, it’s always harder to turn it down than to do it.”

 

NACCHO AGM 2018 Brisbane Oct 31 —Nov 2 Registrations still open

Follow our conference using HASH TAG #NACCHOagm2018

Download 6 page Program as at 16 October

NACCHO National Conference Program 2018 (1)

Register HERE

Conference Website Link:

Accommodation Link:                   

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

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

Conference Website Link

 

Now open: Aged Care Regional, Rural and Remote Infrastructure Grant opportunity.$500,000  closes 24 October 2018

This grant opportunity is designed to assist existing approved residential and home care providers in regional, rural and remote areas to invest in infrastructure. Commonwealth Home Support Programme services will also be considered, where there is exceptional need. Funding will be prioritised to aged care services most in need and where geographical constraints and significantly higher costs impede services’ ability to invest in infrastructure works.

Up to $500,000 (GST exclusive) will be available per service via a competitive application process.

Eligibility:

To be eligible you must be:

  • an approved residential or home care provider (as defined under the Aged Care Act 1997) or an approved Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) provider in exceptional circumstances (refer Frequently asked Questions) ; and
  • currently operating an aged care service located in Modified Monash Model Classification 3-7 or if a CHSP provider, the service is located in MMM 6-7. (MMM Locator).

More Info Apply 

The fourth annual Indigenous Business Month this year will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in business, to coincide with the 2018 NAIDOC theme Because of Her, We Can.

Throughout October, twenty national Indigenous Business Month events will take place showcasing the talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women entrepreneurs from a variety of business sectors. These events aim to ignite conversations about Indigenous business development and innovation, focusing on women’s roles and leadership.

Indigenous Business Month is an initiative driven by the alumni of Melbourne Business School’s MURRA Indigenous Business Master Class, who see business as a way of providing positive role models for young Indigenous Australians and improving quality of life in Indigenous communities.

Since the launch of Indigenous Business Month in 2015, [1] the Indigenous business sector is one of the fastest growing sectors in Australia delivering over $1 billion in goods and services for the Australian economy.

Jason Eades, Director, Consulting at Social Ventures Australia and Indigenous Business Month 2018 host said:

“It is a privilege to be involved in Indigenous Business Month, to be able to take the time to celebrate and acknowledge the great achievements of our Indigenous entrepreneurs and their respective businesses. Indigenous entrepreneurs are showing the rest of the world that we can do business and do it well, whilst maintaining our strong cultural values.”

The latest ABS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey 2014-15 shows that only 51.5 percent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women participate in the workforce compared to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men at 65 percent.

The Australian Government has invested in a range of initiatives to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women entrepreneurs in the work-placeincluding: [2) Continued funding for girls’ academies in high schools, so that young women can realise their leadership potential, greater access to finance and business support suited to the needs of Indigenous businesses with a focus on Indigenous entrepreneurs and start-ups, and expanding the ParentsNextprogram and Fund pre-employment projects via the new Launch into Work program providing flexibility to meet the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

Michelle Evans, MURRA Program Director AND Associate Professor of Leadership at the University of Melbourne said:

“The Indigenous Business Month’s aim is to inspire, showcase and engage the Indigenous business community. This year it is more significant than ever to support the female Indigenous business community and provide a platform for them to network and encourage young Indigenous women to consider developing a business as a career option.”

Indigenous Business Month runs from October 1 to October 31. Check out the website for an event near you (spaces are limited).

The initiative is supported by 33 Creative, Asia Pacific Social Impact Centre at the University of Melbourne, Iscariot Media, and PwC.

For more information on Indigenous Business Month visit

·         The Websitewww.indigenousbusinessmonth.com.au

·         Facebook

·         Twitter

·         LinkedIn

Wiyi Yani U Thangani Women’s Voices project.

June Oscar AO and her team are excited to hear from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls across the country as a part of the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Women’s Voices project.

Whilst we will not be able to get to every community, we hope to hear from as many women and girls as possible through this process. If we are not coming to your community we encourage you to please visit the Have your Say! page of the website to find out more about the other ways to have your voice included through our survey and submission process.

We will be hosting public sessions as advertised below but also a number of private sessions to enable women and girls from particularly vulnerable settings like justice and care to participate.

Details about current, upcoming and past gatherings appears below, however it is subject to change. We will update this page regularly with further details about upcoming gatherings closer to the date of the events.

Please get in touch with us via email wiyiyaniuthangani@humanrights.gov.au or phone on (02) 9284 9600 if you would like more information.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Pathways borders

Current gatherings

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls are invited to register for one of the following gatherings

Pathways borders

Upcoming gatherings

If your community is listed below and you would like to be involved in planning for our visit or would like more information, please write to us at wiyiyaniuthangani@humanrights.gov.au or phone (02) 9284 9600.

Location Dates
Port Headland October 2018
Newman October 2018
Dubbo TBC
Brewarrina TBC
Rockhampton TBC
Longreach TBC
Kempsey TBC

Pathways borders

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander HIV Awareness Week (ATSIHAW) 28th November to 5th December : Expression of Interest open but close 26 October

In 2017 we supported more than 60 ACCHS to run community events during ATSIHAW.

We are now seeking final EOIs to host 2018 ATSIHAW Events

EOI’s will remain open until 26th October 2018

ATSIHAW coincides each year with World AIDS Day- our aim is to promote conversation and action around HIV in our communities. Our long lasting theme of ATSIHAW is U AND ME CAN STOP HIV”.

If you would like to host an ATSIHAW event in 2018, please complete the EOI form here Expression of Interest 2018 and then send back to us to at  atsihaw@sahmri.com

Once registered we will send merchandise to your service to help with your event.

For more information about ATSIHAW please visit http://www.atsihiv.org.au/hiv-awareness-week/merchandise/

ATSIHAW on Facebook     https://www.facebook.com/ATSIHAW/

ATSIHAW on Twitter          https://twitter.com/atsihaw

NACCHO AGM 2018 Brisbane Oct 30—Nov

2018 International Indigenous Allied Health Forum at the Mercure Hotel, Sydney, Australia on the 30 November 2018.

This Forum will bring together Indigenous and First Nation presenters and panellists from across the world to discuss shared experiences and practices in building, supporting and retaining an Indigenous allied health workforce.

This full-day event will provide a platform to share information and build an integrated approach to improving culturally safe and responsive health care and improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Indigenous peoples and communities.

Delegates will include Indigenous and First Nation allied health professionals and students from Australia, Canada, the USA and New Zealand. There will also be delegates from a range of sectors including, health, wellbeing, education, disability, academia and community.

MORE INFO 

AIDA Conference 2018 Vision into Action


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

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

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

Registrations Close August 31

Healing Our Spirit Worldwide

Global gathering of Indigenous people to be held in Sydney
University of Sydney, The Healing Foundation to co-host Healing Our Spirit Worldwide
Gawuwi gamarda Healing Our Spirit Worldwidegu Ngalya nangari nura Cadigalmirung.
Calling our friends to come, to be at Healing Our Spirit Worldwide. We meet on the country of the Cadigal.
In November 2018, up to 2,000 Indigenous people from around the world will gather in Sydney to take part in Healing Our Spirit Worldwide: The Eighth Gathering.
A global movement, Healing Our Spirit Worldwidebegan in Canada in the 1980s to address the devastation of substance abuse and dependence among Indigenous people around the world. Since 1992 it has held a gathering approximately every four years, in a different part of the world, focusing on a diverse range of topics relevant to Indigenous lives including health, politics, social inclusion, stolen generations, education, governance and resilience.
The International Indigenous Council – the governing body of Healing Our Spirit Worldwide – has invited the University of Sydney and The Healing Foundation to co-host the Eighth Gathering with them in Sydney this year. The second gathering was also held in Sydney, in 1994.
 Please also feel free to tag us in any relevant cross posting: @HOSW8 @hosw2018 #HOSW18 #HealingOurWay #TheUniversityofSydney

2nd National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Conference 20-21 November Perth

” The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention and World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference Committee invite and welcome you to Perth for the second National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Conference, and the second World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference.

Our Indigenous communities, both nationally and internationally, share common histories and are confronted with similar issues stemming from colonisation. Strengthening our communities so that we can address high rates of suicide is one of these shared issues. The Conferences will provide more opportunities to network and collaborate between Indigenous people and communities, policy makers, and researchers. The Conferences are unique opportunities to share what we have learned and to collaborate on solutions that work in suicide prevention.

This also enables us to highlight our shared priorities with political leaders in our respective countries and communities.

Conference Website 

2019 Close the Gap for Vision by 2020 – National Conference 2019
Indigenous Eye Health and co-host Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) are pleased to announce the Close the Gap for Vision by 2020 – National Conference 2019 which will be held in Alice Springs, Northern Territory on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 March 2019 at the Alice Springs Convention Centre.
The 2019 conference will run over two days with the aim of bringing people together and connecting people involved in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye care from local communities, ACCOs, health services, non-government organisations, professional bodies and government departments from across the country. We would like to invite everyone who is working on or interested in improving eye health and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
More information available at: go.unimelb.edu.au/wqb6 

NACCHO Aboriginal #MentalHealthWeek News : 1.Download Report Monitoring #mentalhealth and #suicideprevention reform 2.Government has announced a new Productivity Commission Inquiry into the role of mental health in the Australian economy

“As background to this development, the National Mental Health Commission has published its sixth national report – Monitoring Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Reform: National Report 2018 – which provides an analysis of the current status of Australia’s core mental health and suicide prevention reforms, and their impact on consumers and carers.”

Part 1 Download a copy of report 

Monitoring Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Reform National Report 2018

Engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in regional planning

” One of the priorities for PHNs is engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and community controlled organisations in co-designing all aspects of regional planning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and suicide prevention services.

There has been some early success in building partnerships between PHNs and Aboriginal community controlled organisations (see Case study). In contrast, some PHNs have primarily commissioned mainstream providers rather than community controlled health services to provide services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Leading Aboriginal organisations consider this approach to be flawed, and believe it will result in poorer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

It is important for PHNs to recognise and support the cultural determinants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and social and emotional wellbeing, in addition to clinical approaches.26 Recent research by the Lowitja Institute highlights the need for a specific definition of mental health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as mental illness is more likely to occur when social, cultural, historical and political determinants are out of alignment.27

Extract from Page 20 of Report 

Read over 150 NACCHO Aboriginal Mental Health artices published over 6 years

Part 2

 ” The Government has announced a new Productivity Commission Inquiry into the role of mental health in the Australian economy. 

This move is significant recognition of the considerable impact of mental health challenges on individuals and the wider community.”

The Productivity Commission’s inquiry will take 18 months and will scrutinise mental health funding in Australia, which is estimated at $9 billion annually across federal, state and territory governments. Last week the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed 3,128 people committed suicide in 2017, which is up from 2,866 people in 2016.

The commission will be expected to recommend key priorities for the Government’s long-term mental health strategy and will accept public submissions. AHCRA looks forward to meaningful and authentic consumer engagement by the Inquiry.

The inquiry was welcomed by many, including Labor’s mental health spokeswoman, Julie Collins. Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman also praised the inquiry. “There have been numerous investigations and reviews into mental health in Australia, but this is the first time the Productivity Commission will take the lead. It is a significant step forward and one that has the potential to drive real change,” Ms Harman said in a media release.

AHCRA highlights the 2018 Report as a valuable source of information that outlines the size of the problem and the prevalence and impact of mental illness and suicide in Australia.

ABC News item: https://ab.co/2E725r5
Guardian coverage: https://bit.ly/2IKNYqh
Media release: https://bit.ly/2E9Bxpo

The Mental Health Commission website is here: https://bit.ly/2pJ216U
The 2018 report link: https://bit.ly/2C30YpM

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #ACCHO Deadly Good News stories :#NACCHOAgm2018 Program launched #VIC @VACCHO_org @VAHS1972 @DeadlyChoices #NSW #Armidale ACCHO #QLD #GidgeeHealing #NT @AMSANTaus #WA @TheAHCWA #SA @AHCSA

1.1 National Resources : News ASIC MoneySmart video series designed to help our mob with money worries

1.2 National  Survey : Indigenous researchers and strengthening health research capabilities

2.1 VIC : Self-determination key to Close the Gap in VAAF says VACCHO

2.2 VIC : VAHS ACCHO Deadly Choices was at the 2018 Victorian Aboriginal State-wide Junior Football/Netball Carnival in Echuca promoting healthy messages 

3.QLD : Gidgee Healing Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service enters agreement to overcome barriers to better health in Queensland’s Lower Gulf

4.NSW : Armidale Aboriginal Health Service encourages Indigenous artwork / cultural  “ graffiti “ from kids

5.NT  : Safer Communities: Boosting Youth Programs Grants of up to $20,000 each are available for community projects or initiatives aimed at preventing substance misuse by our Territory youth.

6 . WA : AHCWA Federal Member for Perth, the Hon Patrick Gorman visits the Aboriginal Health Council of WA

7. SA :  AHCSA’s ‘Shedding the Smokes’ program up at Kingoonya, SA. Great mob from Yalata, Coober Pedy, Ceduna & Adelaide spending time together

 

 View hundreds of ACCHO Deadly Good News Stories over past 6 years

Download the Interim Draft Program released 1 October 

NACCHO 7 Page Conference Program 2018_v3

MORE INFO AND REGISTER FOR NACCHO AGM

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

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media 

Mobile 0401 331 251

Wednesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Thursday /Friday

 

1.1 National : News ASIC MoneySmart video series designed to help our mob with money worries

Watch No 1

Watch No 2

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has produced two new MoneySmart videos for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that explain how to:

  • Sort out money problems – Follow the journey of Lisa, who is struggling to stay on top of her bills and seeks help from a financial counsellor. Lisa shows there’s no shame in asking for help if you’re struggling to pay your bills.
  • Deal with family pressure about money – Uncle Charlie gets a big payment and is pressured by family to help them out with this money. Charlie helps his family realise he needs to make his money last so he has money for them when they really need it.

Why ASIC created these videos

ASIC has a dedicated Indigenous Outreach Program (IOP) which aims to increase Indigenous Australians’ financial knowledge, and improve the financial services provided to them.

These videos were created after the IOP spoke to people in Indigenous communities who said they felt shame about facing their debt problems and did not know where to go for help.

They also said they were struggling to deal with pressure from family and friends when it came to managing and sharing money.

How can you help?

Share these videos with as many people as possible, in urban, regional and remote communities. The videos can be played in medical centres, local community or resource centres, and community stores.

Please also share this email with your network.

If you have any questions about the videos, please callASIC’s Indigenous Helpline on 1300 365 957 or email feedback@moneysmart.gov.au.

1.2 National  Survey : Indigenous researchers and strengthening health research capabilities

Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders conducting health research and/or are completing a course/degree on health research are invited to take part in a research study reviewing progress of the research workforce.

Participation involves a survey on experiences of research training, work transitions and views on strategies for strengthening research capabilities.

The project is led by Aboriginal academics at the Melbourne Poche Centre for Indigenous Health and funded by The Lowitja Institute. Findings will inform further expanding and strengthening of the Indigenous health researcher workforce, a critical avenue to better health outcomes for communities.

Participants will receive a $30 book gift voucher. For more information and to access the survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VZMFYJP

2.1 VIC : Self-determination key to Close the Gap in VAAF says VACCHO

The principles of self-determination are a welcome and integral part of the Victorian Government’s new Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework 2018-2023 (VAAF), according to the peak body for Aboriginal health and wellbeing in Victoria.

Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) Acting CEO Trevor Pearce said the new VAAF was more progressive than previous Aboriginal affairs policies.

Picture above Acting CEO Trevor Pearce Thanks Njernda ACCHO for hosting the VACCHO Members Meeting in Echuca this week, and for this beautiful Message Stick.

“Self-determination is proven to be a fundamental part of Closing the Gap for Aboriginal people, with its strong link to improved health and wellbeing outcomes,” Mr Pearce said. “So we are really pleased to see it recognised for its importance and threaded throughout the new VAAF.

“We’re also really pleased to see the elimination of systemic racism and structural barriers highlighted in this VAAF.

“We look forward to VACCHO being a part of the implementation of this VAAF through the promised   Aboriginal-led evaluation and review mechanism.”

Mr Pearce said it was pleasing to see a holistic approach to Aboriginal health and wellbeing taken in the VAAF. However, he said it was disappointing that the importance of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) was not highlighted in the Health and Wellbeing domain of the document.

“ACCOs being community-controlled organisations is a key part of self-determination, and we wanted to see that emphasised in the VAAF’s Health and Wellbeing domain,” Mr Pearce said.

“Community-controlled health organisations have been running successfully since the1970s and they deserve respect and recognition of what they have achieved and will continue to do so.

“We did raise this during the VAAF consultation process, and we hope not including the importance of ACCOs in the Health and Wellbeing domain was an oversight that will be addressed.”

Mr Pearce said he hoped future plans such as VAAFs would have ten-year lifespans to map further into the future and achieve more beyond political cycles.

“There’s a lot happening in Victoria right now with Treaty and this VAAF and other plans and priorities, which is great,” he said.

“And then we have the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the Redfern Statement on a national level, so we need to get beyond talking and start working on making these things happen.

“Here at VACCHO we want to do everything we can to make change and improve the health and social, emotional and cultural wellbeing of our mobs. We can Close the Gap if we work together.”

2.2 VIC : VAHS ACCHO Deadly Choices was at the 2018 Victorian Aboriginal State-wide Junior Football/Netball Carnival in Echuca promoting healthy messages 

VAHS was there supporting the event to be Smoke-Free and promoting the message & benefits that our “Boorais & Smoke Don’t Mix!”

Thanks to everyone who didnt smoke at the event.

3.QLD : Gidgee Healing Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service enters agreement to overcome barriers to better health in Queensland’s Lower Gulf

An agreement between Queensland Health’s North West Hospital and Health Service, Gidgee Healing Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service and Western Queensland Primary Health Network aims to better meet the health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Lower Gulf.

Picture above : Dallas Leon, CEO of Gidgee Healing, Paul Woodhouse, Chair of NWHHS, Stuart Gordon, Chief Executive of WQPHN, Lisa Davies Jones, Chief Executive of NWHHS, Shaun Solomon, Chair of Gidgee Healing, Sheilagh Cronin, Chair of WQPHN, and Jacqui Thomson from Queensland Health visited the three Lower Gulf communities earlier this year

The Lower Gulf Strategy will integrate the health system at every level. It will allow Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to participate in decision making affecting their health, and ensure health services are structured around the needs of the individual, family and community. There will be a strong focus on preventive health care and encouraging healthy lifestyles.

The Lower Gulf Strategy will provide comprehensive primary care to the three Lower Gulf communities of Mornington Island, Doomadgee and Normanton, as well as seamless referral pathways for specialist care.

Gidgee Healing, as a regional Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, will lead change through a greater community-controlled model of care, and will provide greater cultural integrity within programs and services.

Implemented late last year, the Lower Gulf Strategy aims to: reduce chronic disease among the Mornington Island, Doomadgee and Normanton communities and prevent young people getting chronic disease; transition Community Health Services to community control (Gidgee Healing); improve access to child and maternal health services; improve access to mental health and substance abuse services, particularly for children and youth; and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff employed in the health services in these three communities.

The North West Hospital and Health Service has been working with the Western Queensland Primary Health Network and Gidgee Healing to provide comprehensive primary care. On Mornington Island, Gidgee Healing is co-located with the Hospital and Health Service at Mornington Island Hospital.

In Doomadgee, the two services are also co-located. In both locations they are squeezed for space. In Normanton, Gidgee is located at its own health hub in town, but the two teams work closely together. With a greater emphasis on primary care and disease prevention in the three communities, the teams have developed new ways of working.

Key features of the model are partnerships across the health continuum with patients, family/carers and care teams; customised care around patient goals; and working with local providers to best care for patients’ needs. It promotes flexible team based care supported by a shared workforce, central care coordination, access to health literacy and self-management, and sharing of information.

Challenges are real but surmountable. More clinical services space is needed in Doomadgee and Mornington Island. The main entrance to health services needs to be in primary care, as our focus is on prevention and primary care. There is very limited staff accommodation in Doomadgee and Mornington Island. The two services are working together to source capital funding to improve the infrastructure.

Early indicators of success in all three locations are the increasing numbers attending Gidgee Healing for primary health care and a subsequent drop in presentations to the hospital. This signals that the focus on primary and preventive health care is resonating with the communities. People are seeking health services earlier and more regularly, rather than waiting until their conditions are chronic or acute before seeking help.

Staff in the three organisations are working together to overcome the barriers to better health outcomes for the people they serve.

4.NSW : Armidale Aboriginal Health Service encourages Indigenous artwork / cultural  “ graffiti “ from kids

“Everything that they do here is based on Aboriginal culture and about mixing in with other kids in town to learn a little bit more. It’s an opportunity for kids to come together and have a bit of fun with Aboriginal culture.”

The cultural activity was teaching the children about being positive, and was also a great confidence builder.

“The program we manage is all about that. It’s like an early intervention and prevention approach about doing positive things and respecting their elders and their parents,” she said.

“We want them to know that this place is theirs, so we decided to do the two murals. You know? They can come in and show mum and dad, nan and pop and uncle and aunt. These are so much more than just paintings on the walls.”

Program co-ordinator Cynthia Briggs

FROM HERE 

A group of children participating in an Aboriginal Youth Program managed through the Armidale Aboriginal Health Service painted two external, bare, cement walls at the Pat Dixon Centre with murals of traditional artwork on Wednesday morning.

Work was supervised by Glen Innes artist Lloyd Hornsby, who said the mixture of colours the children decided to use was not an easy mix to apply, and they had done some really good work to bring them all together.

Program co-ordinator Cynthia Briggs said Wednesday was the second day of organised cultural activities for Aboriginal youth in Armidale that is run by the service every school holidays.

“We got an Aboriginal artist Lloyd Hornsby to direct the children in the designs that are on the murals,” Cynthia said.

“They were really plain walls and we’ve turned then into something that the kids can call their own, and that was the idea.

5.NT  : Safer Communities: Boosting Youth Programs Grants of up to $20,000 each are available for community projects or initiatives aimed at preventing substance misuse by our Territory youth.

 

The Territory Labor Government is investing in our youth and creating safer communities by providing grants through the 2019 Alcohol and Other Drugs Youth Grants Program.

Grants of up to $20,000 each are available for community projects or initiatives aimed at preventing substance misuse by our Territory youth.

Applications must demonstrate how the proposed project relates to the National Drug Strategy 2017-2023 and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Drug Strategy 2014-2019

Northern Territory based incorporated organisations or community groups are eligible to apply.

Grants will be provided by the Northern Territory Government through the Department of Health’s Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Branch.

A total of $280,000 is available to be awarded this round.

Visit www.health.nt.gov.au for further information, eligibility criteria, and to submit applications, or phone 8999 2691.

Applications for the grants close 5 November 2018.

Comments attributable to Minister for Health, Natasha Fyles:

The Territory Labor Government is putting children first and creating safer communities through a range of grants available, designed to prevent substance abuse.

The CLP cut a range of youth programs when they were in government, leading to the issues which we are now dealing with.

The Alcohol and Other Drugs Youth Grants Program delivers on the Territory Labor Government’s promise to reinstate funding for activities aimed at reducing the impact of youth substance misuse.

These include

  • Awareness raising and education projects for young people that promote healthy choices and activities,
  • Sporting, cultural and community events that enhance young people’s level of connectedness that builds resilience,
  • Activities which support young people to develop skills and learn, and;
  • Projects that work with young people to reduce alcohol consumption during pregnancy and raise awareness about Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

The Territory Labor Government will continue to invest in our youth and promote a better lifestyle to ensure they are engaged and are given every opportunity to become law abiding adults.

6 . WA : AHCWA Federal Member for Perth, the Hon Patrick Gorman visits the Aboriginal Health Council of WA

As the newly elected Federal Member for Perth, the Hon Patrick Gorman visited the Aboriginal Health Council of WA yesterday to meet the staff, tour the facilities and learn about the valuable work we do to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people across WA.

7. SA :  AHCSA’s ‘Shedding the Smokes’ program up at Kingoonya, SA. Great mob from Yalata, Coober Pedy, Ceduna & Adelaide spending time together

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #Jobalerts as at 10 October : This week features #VIC @VACCHO_org State-wide Tobacco Co-ordinator #NT @MiwatjHealth @CAACongress #QLD #Gidgee Healing @Deadlychoices @ATSICHSBris @IUIH_ @Apunipima #Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre

This weeks #ACCHO #Jobalerts

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

1.1 Job/s of the week 

1.2 National Aboriginal Health Scholarships 

Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship applications Close October 14 October

Australian Hearing / University of Queensland

APNA Transition to Practice Program (TPP) 

2.Queensland 

    2.1 Apunipima ACCHO Cape York

    2.2 IUIH ACCHO Deadly Choices Brisbane and throughout Queensland

    2.3 ATSICHS ACCHO Brisbane

3.NT Jobs Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

   3.1 Congress ACCHO Alice Spring

   3.2 Miwatj Health ACCHO Arnhem Land

   3.3 Wurli ACCHO Katherine

   3.4 Sunrise ACCHO Katherine

4. South Australia

   4.1 Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

5. Western Australia

  5.1 Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc

  5.2 Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

6.Victoria

6.1 Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

6.2 Mallee District Aboriginal Services Mildura Swan Hill Etc 

6.3 : Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative 2 POSITIONS VACANT

7.New South Wales

7.1 AHMRC Sydney and Rural 

8. Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre ACCHO 

9.Canberra ACT Winnunga ACCHO

10. Other : Stakeholders Indigenous Health 

UNSW Director of Indigenous Health Education

The Lime Network : EVENT AND PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholders

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health 

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

Over 302 ACCHO clinics See all websites by state territory 

VACCHO State-wide Tobacco Co-ordinator 

VACCHO is the peak representative for the health and well being of Aboriginal people in Victoria, and champions community control and health equality for Aboriginal communities. We are a centre of expertise, policy advice, training, innovation and leadership in Aboriginal health. VACCHO advocates for the health equality and optimum health of all Aboriginal people in Victoria.

We are looking for someone who is knowledgeable in health control protocol, specifically in tobacco would be a distinct advantage – to lead our various innovative health change programs. In this role, your primary focus will be to support Victorian Aboriginal communities to reduce smoking rates, using a range of research and implementation strategies.

Your days will be varied, and will involve continuous communication with various government departments, and liaison with a range of internal stakeholders. Key to your skill set will be your solid report writing skills, up to date research competency, and a can do attitude to turn best practice theory into actual action.

You’ll be on the road working directly with our Member organisations, will work closely with fantastic internal teams, and be a part of a broader family in our very supportive office environment.

We are looking for someone who can build and maintain solid relationships, can manage projects effectively, and has excellent organisation and time management skills. You’ll be familiar with harm reduction models and implementing initiatives, and importantly, you’ll be passionate about reducing smoking rates in Victorian Aboriginal communities.

Experience working with Aboriginal organisations, communities and individuals in culturally appropriate ways will be critical to your success in the role.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Straight Islander people to apply.

If this sounds like the job you are looking for, please review a copy of the Position Description.

To apply, please email a copy of your resume and Application Form to Human Resources.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Remote Health Centre Coordinator Beagle Bay Health Centre

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services LTD (KAMS) is a well-established regional Aboriginal community controlled health service, founded in 1986, which provides centralised advocacy and resource support for 6 independent member services, as well as providing direct clinical services in a further 6 remote Aboriginal communities across the region.

Clinical services at Beagle Bay Health Centre have been provided by KAMS on behalf of the community of Beagle Bay since 1985. The Beagle Bay Community is a member of KAMS and has representation on the KAMS governing committee.

Beagle Bay Health Centre is a comprehensive Primary Health Care service staffed by General Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers.

About the Opportunity

KAMS now has a rewarding opportunity for a Remote Health Centre Coordinator to join their multidisciplinary team based in Beagle Bay, WA. This role will be offered on a full-time 6 weeks on, two weeks off roster basis.

In this role, you will be responsible for assisting the Health Centre Manager with the general management and day-to-day operations of a remote clinic providing leadership and support to the Beagle Bay health team.

Some of your key responsibilities will include (but will not be limited to):

  • Promoting and advocating health services with the local community Council;
  • Administering and maintaining clinical standards including all clinical assets according to standard policy and procedures;
  • Ensuring quality improvements are carried out and met to the required health clinical standards;
  • Managing workforce, including recruitment and orientation, staff development, performance, training, clinical supervision and in-service education;
  • Planning and reporting on a regular basis with senior management;
  • Ensuring staff have access to appropriate systems/programs/resources to enable them to perform their duties; and
  • Attending, and participating in, regular KAMS senior management meetings.

About the Benefits

KAMS is an organisation that truly values its team, and is committed to improving employee knowledge, skills and experience. In addition, staff development programs are not only encouraged but are often paid for by KAMS. These are highly attractive opportunities for someone with a desire to develop their professional knowledge and experience in the area of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health!

There is also a wide range of fantastic additional benefits for the role, including:

  • Attractive base salary of $107,599 PLUS Super;
  • Accommodation provided whilst in the community;
  • District allowance of $2,149(single) and $4,298 (double);
  • Annual airfare $1,285 every 12 months;
  • Isolation airfares of $1,200; and
  • 25% of base salary for on call.

Working closely with patients, their families and carers, this is a role where you will witness the direct positive impact you’re making in the community, as part of a close-knit KAMS team. You will be continually recognised for your dedication and hard work!

APPLY HERE

Gidgee Healing Mt Isa QLD : Aboriginal Health Worker Closing 16 October 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The primary function of this position is to provide high quality services including assessment, examination, treatment and case management, along with contributing to the development of models of holistic health incorporating continuity of care.

Aboriginal Health Workers work within a clinical team environment with the aim of improving the health status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through the provision of comprehensive and culturally valid primary health care services.

ABOUT GIDGEE HEALING:

Gidgee Healing provides a comprehensive and growing range of services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the areas of Mount Isa, North West and Lower Gulf of Carpentaria regions. Our core objective is to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to improve their health and welllbeing, whilst continually enhancing the quality and scope of care provided.

THE LIFESTYLE:

The Mount Isa region is the gateway to the Outback of Queensland, offers a relaxed and casual lifestyle, with a wealth of camping and exploring, scenic national parks, gorges, as well as top river, lake and open water fishing and recreation.

It is desirable if you have a Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice), currently studying or willingness to obtain one.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply

Applications close COB Tuesday 16th October 2018

To apply online, please click on the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Priscilla Kondolo on (07) 4749 6508, quoting Ref No. 830715.

More Info Apply 

Aboriginal Health Worker Gippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-Operative

Organisational Profile

GEGAC is an Aboriginal Community organization based in Bairnsdale Victoria. Consisting of about 160 staff, GEGAC is a Not for Profit organization that delivers holistic services in the areas of Primary Health, Social Services, Elders & Disability and Early Childhood Education.

Position Purpose

To assist in the Primary Health care of patients in clinical areas of the Health service under the direction of the Coordinator/ General Practitioners and Practice Nurses. The role has a clinical assistance focus and will enable Aboriginal Clients to be supported during their treatment and their concerns responded to as they arise as well as the concerns of their families /Carers.

Qualifications and Registrations Requirement (Essential or Desirable).

Drivers Licence ( Victorian) Essential

Study in Aboriginal Culture – Cert 4 Aboriginal Health or equivalent Essential

Ability /experience liaising with other Health organisations

Desirable

First Aid Certificate Desirable

Customer service experience in a Health Setting. Desirable

A person of Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islander background

Desirable

How to apply for this job

A copy of the position description and the application form can be obtained below, at GEGAC reception 0351 500 700 or by contacting HR@gegac.org.au.

Or by following the below links –

Position Description –  https://goo.gl/CzmC14

Application Form –  https://goo.gl/JMPdML

Applicants must complete the application form as it contains the selection criteria for shortlisting. Any applications not submitted on the Application form will not be considered.

Application forms should be emailed to HR@gegac.org.au, using the subject line:  Aboriginal Health Worker

Or posted to:

Human Resources

Gippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative
PO Box 634
Bairnsdale Vic 3875

Applications close Friday, 12th October 2018 5.00pm.

No late applications will be considered.

A valid Working with Children Check and Police check is mandatory to work in this organisation

“this advertisement is pursuant to the ‘special measures’ provision at section 8 of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth)”.

Aboriginal Health Worker Griffith NSW
Employment Type: Permanent Part Time
Position Classification: Aboriginal Health Worker
Remuneration: $51,608 – $76,009 per annum pro rata
Hours Per Week: 32
Requisition ID: REQ28400
Applications close: 24 October 2018
Aboriginal Targeted RoleImmerse yourself in a supportive and collaborative team environmentWhere you will be workingGriffith Base Hospital is a 117 bed C1 peer grouped  hospital providing a range of acute specialist services (both resident & visiting) including emergency medicine, general medicine,  surgery, paediatric medicine, oncology, obstetrics, intensive care, respiratory medicine, renal dialysis and rheumatology.  Each year there are approximately 19,500 emergency presentations, 2,500 operations and 540 births. Additional services at Griffith Base Hospital include physiotherapy, dietetics, pharmacy, occupational therapy and Aboriginal health.
There are also a range of diagnostic services including Pathology, CT, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, General X-Ray and Mammography.Learn more about the benefits and lifestyle of GriffithWhat you will be doingThe position is a vital part of supporting and monitoring the journey and access of the Aboriginal patient through the hospital and health systems.
The position will provide emotional, practical, social and welfare support; health education opportunities for Aboriginal inpatients and communities: work with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal health staff to develop and implement programs and strategies for improving health outcomes for the Aboriginal individuals and communities

.The Aboriginal Health Worker has to be multi skilled to be able to deliver an appropriate service to meet the needs of Aboriginal patients from diverse cultural backgrounds, and to act effectively as cultural brokers between the Aboriginal patients and hospital system to ensure a two way understanding of the need to balance cultural needs and healthcare.Selection Criteria

  • Must be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent NB (applicants race is a genuine occupational qualification and Authorized by Section 14 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977, NSW) and have demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
  • TAFE or other qualifications in an appropriate health or welfare related discipline and/or extensive relevant experience in these fields
  • Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of current Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander health priorities and ability to effectively and sensitively liaise and communicate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities
  • Demonstrated skills in client assessment, support, assistance and advocacy in health or related field and have the ability to develop and delivery culturally appropriate programs and resources

Please refer to the Position Description for the essential requirements and full selection criteria. All criteria must be addressed in your application.

Additional Information

  • Please note that to apply for this position you must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, or be able to independently and legally live and work in Australia.  For more information, please see www.immi.gov.au

Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Michelle Druitt on Michelle.Druitt@health.nsw.gov.au

MLHD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage all suitably qualified applicants to apply, including Aboriginal People and people from racial, ethnic or ethno-religious minority groups and people with disability.

To view the position description or submit your applications please click the ‘Apply’ button below.

 

Australian Hearing / University of Queensland


Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship applications Close October 14 October

The Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme is designed to encourage and assist undergraduate students in health-related disciplines to complete their studies and join the health workforce.

Dr Puggy Hunter was the NACCHO Chair 1991-2001

Puggy was the elected chairperson of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, (NACCHO), which is the peak national advisory body on Aboriginal health. NACCHO has a membership of over 144 + Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and is the representative body of these services. Puggy was the inaugural Chair of NACCHO from 1991 until his death.[1]

Puggy was the vice-chairperson of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Council, the Federal Health Minister’s main advisory body on Aboriginal health established in 1996. He was also Chair of the National Public Health Partnership Aboriginal and Islander Health Working Group which reports to the Partnership and to the Australian Health Ministers Advisory Council. He was a member of the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council (APAC), the General Practice Partnership Advisory Council, the Joint Advisory Group on Population Health and the National Health Priority Areas Action Council as well as a number of other key Aboriginal health policy and advisory groups on national issues.[1]

The scheme provides scholarships for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people studying an entry level health course.

Applications for PHMSS 2019 scholarship round are now open.

Click the button below to start your online application.

APPLICATION

Applications must be completed and submitted before midnight AEDT (Sydney/Canberra time) Sunday 14 October 2018. After this time the system will shut down and any incomplete applications will be lost.

Eligible health areas

  • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander health work
  • Allied health (excluding pharmacy)
  • Dentistry/oral health (excluding dental assistants)
  • Direct entry midwifery
  • Medicine
  • Nursing; registered and enrolled

Eligibility criteria

Applications will be considered from applicants who are:

  • of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent
    Applicants must identify as and be able to confirm their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status.
  • enrolled or intending to enrol in an entry level or graduate entry level health related course
    Courses must be provided by an Australian registered training organisation or university. Funding is not available for postgraduate study.
  • intending to study in the academic year that the scholarship is offered.

A significant number of applications are received each year; meeting the eligibility criteria will not guarantee applicants a scholarship offer.

Value of scholarship

Funding is provided for the normal duration of the course. Full time scholarship awardees will receive up to $15,000 per year and part time recipients will receive up to $7,500 per year. The funding is paid in 24 fortnightly instalments throughout the study period of each year.

Selection criteria

These are competitive scholarships and will be awarded on the recommendation of the independent selection committee whose assessment will be based on how applicants address the following questions:

  • Describe what has been your driving influence/motivation in wanting to become a health professional in your chosen area.
  • Discuss what you hope to accomplish as a health professional in the next 5-10 years.
  • Discuss your commitment to study in your chosen course.
  • Outline your involvement in community activities, including promoting the health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The scholarships are funded by the Australian Government, Department of Health and administered by the Australian College of Nursing. The scheme was established in recognition of Dr Arnold ‘Puggy’ Hunter’s significant contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and his role as Chair of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

Important links

Links to Indigenous health professional associations

Contact ACN

e scholarships@acn.edu.au
t 1800 688 628

 

APNA Transition to Practice Program (TPP) 

Trying to find your feet in primary health care or want to try your hand at mentoring nurses new to primary health care?
This program will help you grow your skills, knowledge and confidence and set you up in your career. The 12-month program will support the transitioning nurse through tailored CPD, mentorship and support in primary health care settings such as (but not limited to) general practice, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health care services and community health.
Applications now open.
For more information and to apply, visitwww.apna.asn.au/transitiontopractice  
 
Building Nurse Capacity 
Are you looking to take the next step in your career? Want to learn new skills and knowledge so you can deliver a new model of care?
The Building Nurse Capacity Project will focus on the development of nurse-led (team-based) models of care that meet local population health needs, and contribute to building the capacity of the healthcare team. Grant funding and APNA support will be provided to successful applicants.  It will help you promote close collaboration between nurses and health practitioners, as well as the primary health care sector, health leaders, organisations and consumers, thanks to the team-based care approach.
Applications now open.
 

 

NACCHO Affiliate , Member , Government Department or stakeholders

If you have a job vacancy in Indigenous Health 

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media

Tuesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Wednesday

2.1 There are 4 JOBS AT Apunipima Cairns and Cape York

The links to  job vacancies are on website

 


www.apunipima.org.au/work-for-us

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

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

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

Current vacancies

NT Jobs Alice Spring ,Darwin East Arnhem Land and Katherine

3.1 There are 10 JOBS at Congress Alice Springs including

 

More info and apply HERE

3.2 There are 19 JOBS at Miwatj Health Arnhem Land

 

More info and apply HERE

3.3 There are 5 JOBS at Wurli Katherine

 

Current Vacancies

  • Program Coordinator (Syphilis Enhanced Response)

  • Registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Syphilis Enhanced Response)

  • Community Engagement Support Officer / Sexual Health Educator (CESO)

  • General Practitioner

  • Registered Nurse

  • Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Clinical)

More info and apply HERE

3.4 Sunrise ACCHO Katherine

Sunrise Job site

4. South Australia

   4.1 Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc

Nunkuwarrin Yunti places a strong focus on a client centred approach to the delivery of services and a collaborative working culture to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. View our current vacancies here.

 

NUNKU SA JOB WEBSITE 

5. Western Australia

5.1 Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc. is passionate about creating a strong and dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander workforce. We are committed to providing mentorship and training to our team members to enhance their skills for them to be able to create career pathways and opportunities in life.

On occasions we may have vacancies for the positions listed below:

  • Medical Receptionists – casual pool
  • Transport Drivers – casual pool
  • General Hands – casual pool, rotating shifts
  • Aboriginal Health Workers (Cert IV in Primary Health) –casual pool

*These positions are based in one or all of our sites – East Perth, Midland, Maddington, Mirrabooka or Bayswater.

To apply for a position with us, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Detailed CV
  • WA National Police Clearance – no older than 6 months
  • WA Driver’s License – full license
  • Contact details of 2 work related referees
  • Copies of all relevant certificates and qualifications

We may also accept Expression of Interests for other medical related positions which form part of our services. However please note, due to the volume on interests we may not be able to respond to all applications and apologise for that in advance.

All complete applications must be submitted to our HR department or emailed to HR

Also in accordance with updated privacy legislation acts, please download, complete and return this Permission to Retain Resume form

Attn: Human Resources
Derbarl Yerrigan Health Services Inc.
156 Wittenoom Street
East Perth WA 6004

+61 (8) 9421 3888

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation.

We are currently recruiting for the positions below and would appreciate if you could please share the details on your website and across your networks.

Position Title:                   Indigenous Outreach Worker (East Perth)

Advertisement:                Indigenous Outreach Worker Job in Perth – SEEK

Closing Date:                     Wednesday 17th October 2018 – 5pm

Position Title:                   Health Promotions Officer – Female (East Perth)

Advertisement:                Health Promotions Officer – Female Job in Perth – SEEK

Closing Date:                     Wednesday 17th October 2018 – 5pm

There may be an opening for an Aboriginal Health Practitioner position in the near future and you are welcome to send our expression of interest advertisement to those who may suit the role as well Expression of Interest – Aboriginal Health Practitioner Job in Perth – SEEK.

Aboriginal Liaison Officer

About the Organisation

The name Derbarl Yerrigan is the Wadjuk Noongar name for the Swan River. Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (DYHSAC), has a proud history of providing Aboriginal health services within the Perth metropolitan area and in 1974 was the first Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service to be established in Australia. DYHSAC has now grown to have four successful, busy clinics across the Perth metro area, delivering comprehensive healthcare and specialised programs along with an accommodation centre for clients requiring medical treatment away from home or Country.Our mission is to provide high quality, holistic and culturally secure health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities in the Perth metropolitan region.

For more information about DYHSAC, please visit http://www.dyhs.org.au.

About the Opportunity

DYHSAC is currently seeking a full time Aboriginal Liaison Officer based at Midland site.

The primary responsibility of this role is to provide support, care co-ordination and advocacy to Aboriginal clients who are admitted to, already in or are being discharged from hospitals, and are Derbarl Yerrigan clients.

Please note: Aboriginality is a genuine requirement for this position as per Section 50D of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984.

Key responsibilities of the position includes:

  • Provide culturally secure support for Aboriginal patients of DYHSAC in respect of planned admissions to hospitals (relevant to the location of the ALO.
  • Participate in DYHS events and community development activities.
  • Participate in ongoing review and assessment of client’s progress.
  • Maintain accurate records for reporting and evaluations
  • Develop networks, participate in community projects and provide support to local committees and other community groups in the interest of DYHSAC.
  • Co-ordinate early follow-up care at DYHSAC clinics post discharge for the first 6 weeks.
  • Co-ordinate non- admitted patient care for DYHSAC clients.
  • Provide health education, advice and support particularly living in the metropolitan area.
  • Liaise with external organisations to deliver ongoing health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
  • Provide support to other service providers.
  • Undertake cultural education program and organise workshops of relevant hospital liaison issues for staff and clients.
  • Work with internal clinic staff to assist clients of DYHSAC to have a smooth transition into/out of hospital.
  • Provide regular data for various reports of client contact.

Essential Requirement for the position

  1. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander 50D of the Equal Employment Opportunities Act.
  2. Certificate III in Aboriginal Health. Upon commencement you will be required to undertake full training to meet Certificate IV in Aboriginal Health.
  3. Comprehensive experience in establishing relationships and liaising with external support services and health service providers including Hospital Liaison.
  4. Experience in advocating on behalf of Aboriginal clients and demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal culture and customs and its impact on health outcomes in aboriginal communities.
  5. Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of records and information.
  6. Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in providing assistance and support to Aboriginal clients.
  7. Ability to work autonomously with demonstrated ability to remain composed and positive under pressure.
  8. Well-developed interpersonal and negotiation skills and ability to work and develop collaborative partnerships

About the Benefits

Employment wages and conditions will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, and will be negotiated with the successful applicant. At Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, you will be joining an organisation which offers a flexible and family-friendly work environment and is led by a passionate and committed CEO.

It is an essential requirement for this position to undertake a National Police Check.

How to Apply:

Please apply through SEEK including a resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria. For any further information about the position, please contact HR Department on (08) 9421 3888.

Applications close: Tuesday 16 October  2018 at 5pm

The Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation reserves the right to contact the current or most recent employer and evaluate past employment records of applicants selected for interview. The organisation reserves the right to re-advertise the position or to delay indefinitely final selection if it is deemed that applicants for the position do not constitute an adequate applicant pool.

 

DYHS JOB WEBSITE

 5.2 Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

https://kamsc-iframe.applynow.net.au/

KAMS JOB WEBSITE

6.Victoria

6.1 Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

 

Thank you for your interest in working at the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)

If you would like to lodge an expression of interest or to apply for any of our jobs advertised at VAHS we have two types of applications for you to consider.

Expression of interest

Submit an expression of interest for a position that may become available to: employment@vahs.org.au

This should include a covering letter outlining your job interest(s), an up to date resume and two current employment referees

Your details will remain on file for a period of 12 months. Resumes on file are referred to from time to time as positions arise with VAHS and you may be contacted if another job matches your skills, experience and/or qualifications. Expressions of interest are destroyed in a confidential manner after 12 months.

Applying for a Current Vacancy

Unless the advertisement specifies otherwise, please follow the directions below when applying

Your application/cover letter should include:

  • Current name, address and contact details
  • A brief discussion on why you feel you would be the appropriate candidate for the position
  • Response to the key selection criteria should be included – discussing how you meet these

Your Resume should include:

  • Current name, address and contact details
  • Summary of your career showing how you have progressed to where you are today. Most recent employment should be first. For each job that you have been employed in state the Job Title, the Employer, dates of employment, your duties and responsibilities and a brief summary of your achievements in the role
  • Education, include TAFE or University studies completed and the dates. Give details of any subjects studies that you believe give you skills relevant to the position applied for
  • References, where possible, please include 2 employment-related references and one personal character reference. Employment references must not be from colleagues, but from supervisors or managers that had direct responsibility of your position.

Ensure that any referees on your resume are aware of this and permission should be granted.

How to apply:

Send your application, response to the key selection criteria and your resume to:

employment@vahs.org.au

All applications must be received by the due date unless the previous extension is granted.

When applying for vacant positions at VAHS, it is important to know the successful applicants are chosen on merit and suitability for the role.

VAHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to ensuring that staff selection procedures are fair to all applicants regardless of their sex, race, marital status, sexual orientation, religious political affiliations, disability, or any other matter covered by the Equal Opportunity Act

You will be assessed based on a variety of criteria:

  • Your application, which includes your application letter which address the key selection criteria and your resume
  • Verification of education and qualifications
  • An interview (if you are shortlisted for an interview)
  • Discussions with your referees (if you are shortlisted for an interview)
  • You must have the right to live and work in Australia
  • Employment is conditional upon the receipt of:
    • A current Working with Children Check
    • A current National Police Check
    • Any licenses, certificates and insurances

6.2 Mallee District Aboriginal Services Mildura Swan Hill Etc 

Alcohol and Other Drugs Support Worker (Mildura)
Mental Health Nurse (Mildura)
AOD Life Skills Worker (Wiimpatja Healing Centre)
Midwife (Mildura)
Maternal and Child Health Nurse (Mildura)
General Practitioner (Swan Hill)

MDAS Jobs website 

6.3 : Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative 2 POSITIONS VACANT

The Australian Nurse-Family Partnership Program (ANFPP)

Nurse Supervisor (Division 1)

Full time – 38 Hours per week (Hours Negotiable)

Fixed Term Contract – ending 24/10/2019

The Australian Nurse-Family Partnership Program supports women pregnant with an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander baby and their families using a therapeutic, partnership approach. The program supports voluntary clients to improve their personal health and wellbeing, environmental health, increase their self- efficacy and improve the health and development of their children.

Further information on the Australian Nurse Family Partnership Program can be found of the following website: http://www.anfpp.com.au

Role purpose: The Nurse Supervisor is responsible for the supervision and day to day management of ANFPP team and program. To work within the local community, the Primary Health Care Service and ANFPP team to ensure the ANFPP is implemented in accordance with established guidelines and requirements, including using principles of reflective practice in supervision, staff development, modelling and building a strengths-based, culturally safe and client-centered program.

Salary Packaging is a benefit available for Part or Full Time Employees

Your application will need to include a copy of your Victorian Employee Working with Children Check and a police check obtained within the last 2 months.

For consideration for an interview, you must obtain a Position Description from Marieta on (03) 5820 6405 or email: marieta.martin@raclimited.com.au or download the Position Description from http://www.rumbalara.org.au/vacancies and address the Key Selection Criteria, include a current resume, copies of qualifications and a cover letter.

Applications close at 4pm on Friday, 19th October 2018 and are to be addressed to:

Human Resources Dept.

Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative PO Box 614 Mooroopna Vic 3629

 

2.POSITION VACANT

Team Leader – Empowered Women, Children & Families (EWCF)

New Position – Full time – 38 Hours per week, Monday – Friday, 8:45am-5:00pm

Role purpose: The Team Leader is responsible for the day to day management and decision making for a range of direct service delivery functions, including Cradle to Kinder program, Children & Schooling program & provide support to Koorie Maternity Services & Yanda Together Youth Mentoring program.

The position provides leadership, direction and support to staff, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of programs and services in accordance with industry standards and principles of continuous improvement.

Key Selection Criteria:

* An understanding of the Child FIRST Alliance & Child Protection pathways, including reporting and legislative requirements associated.

* A sound knowledge of and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, values, family/kinship networks, parenting practices and issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

* Proven planning, organisation, management & supervision skills, including experience in similar role.

* Minimum Cert IV Leadership/Management, Community Services, Early Years/Education or related field.

Salary Packaging is a benefit available for Part or Full Time Employees

Your application will need to include a copy of your Victorian Employee Working with Children Check and a police check obtained within the last 2 months.

For consideration for an interview, you must obtain a Position Description from Marieta on (03) 5820 6405 or email: marieta.martin@raclimited.com.au or download the Position Description from http://www.rumbalara.org.au/vacancies and address the Key Selection Criteria, include a current resume, copies of qualifications and a cover letter.

Applications close at 4pm on Friday, 19th October 2018 and are to be addressed to:

Human Resources Dept.

Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative PO Box 614 Mooroopna Vic 3629

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community are encouraged to apply

7.New South Wales

7.1 AHMRC Sydney and Rural 

Check website for current Opportunities

 

8. Tasmania

 

TAC JOBS AND TRAINING WEBSITE

9.Canberra ACT Winnunga ACCHO

 

Winnunga ACCHO Job opportunites 

10. Other : Stakeholders Indigenous Health 

UNSW Director of Indigenous Health Education

Apply nowJob no: 495137

Work type: Fixed term / Part time
Location: Sydney, NSW
Categories: Head of School / Director

  • Unique newly created opportunity
  • Significantly contribute to trends, initiatives and directions in Indigenous health education at UNSW
  • Fixed term – Part time (0.5 FTE) for 36 months
  • Location – Sydney NSW Australia

The Organisation

UNSW Medicine is a national leader in learning, teaching and research, with close affiliations to a number of Australia’s finest hospitals, research institutes and health care organisations. With a strong presence at UNSW Kensington campus, the faculty have staff and students in teaching hospitals in Sydney as well as regional and rural areas of NSW including Albury/Wodonga, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.

The Opportunity

The Director of Indigenous Health Education is responsible for providing strategic advice and support to the Senior Vice Dean Education as well as curriculum development and oversight regarding education on Indigenous health-related issues. The Director of Indigenous Health Education will work with the Senior Vice Dean Education, Associate Dean Education, Medicine Program Authority, Chairs of Medicine Phase and Curriculum Development Committees, Program Authority for Exercise Physiology as well as Program Authorities for Medicine’s postgraduate coursework programs and other key areas of the University to develop and contribute towards Indigenous health-related teaching.

  • Fixed term – Part time (0.5 FTE) for 36 months
  • Academic Level C: $125, 160 – $143, 593 plus 17% superannuation and leave loading

Responsibilities will include:

  • Collaborate with the Senior Vice Dean (Education) and Associate Dean (Education), Program Authorities and Committees to define Faculty goals to support Indigenous health education, including indigenous-health related curriculum development and Indigenous student recruitment and retention.
  • Provide strategic advice and assistance to the Associate Dean Education on all matters relating to Indigenous health education.
  • Provide advice to the Senior Vice Dean (Education) on trends, initiatives and directions in Indigenous health education and be responsible for the oversight of Indigenous health curricula within UNSW Medicine.
  • Work with UNSW Medicine and other university members to forward various Aboriginal statements and reconciliation action plans, include UNSW Elders.
  • Provide support and guidance to students regarding Indigenous matters.
  • Work with the Director of Development and Engagement to promote Indigenous philanthropy across the faculty.

About the Successful Applicant

  • Bachelors degree, ideally in the field of education or Indigenous health. Masters or PhD in the fields of education or Indigenous health would be an advantage.
  • Can demonstrate a thorough understanding of the issues, directions and challenges in indigenous health.
  • Knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history or extensive experience working with Indigenous peoples.
  • Sound understanding of University and Faculty administration, practices, policies and procedures.
  • Proven record of management experience with effective strategic leadership and team building capabilities, ideally within a higher education environment.

You should systematically address the selection criteria from the position description in your application. Click Link for the Position Description Download File PD – Director of Indigenous Health Education.pdf

Please apply online – applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:

Professor Gary Velan – Senior Vice Dean of Education

E: g.velan@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11pm 5th November 2018

This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only.  UNSW has obtained an exemption under section 126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW) to designate and recruit professional and academic positions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons only, to fulfil UNSW’s goal of a representative workforce rate.

Position Description

Advertised: AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: AUS Eastern Daylight Time

APPLY HERE 

The Lime Network : EVENT AND PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR (INDIGENOUS APPLICANTS ONLY)

The LIME Network – Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences

Only Indigenous Australians are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the Special Measure Provision, Section 12 (1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2011 (Vic).

Salary: $88,171 – $95,444 p.a. (pro rata) plus 9.5% superannuation

The Event and Project Coordinator will take a lead in the coordination, planning and implementation of key projects and events of the LIME Network.  These include the LIME Connection international conference, stakeholder meetings, seminars and other events.

Close date: 14 Oct 2018

Position Description and Selection Criteria

0046502.pdf

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

Advertised: AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: AUS Eastern Daylight Time

Website 

NACCHO Aboriginal #WorldMentalHealthDay : Culture as key to mental wellbeing , evidence shows that culturally-safe early intervention and prevention programs and services are the most effective in reducing poor mental health and suicide

 ” NACCHO and the Sector Support Organisations appreciate the opportunity to make this submission on behalf of our Member Services.

With circumstances unimproved after many years of multiple policy approaches, there is a dire need to overturn poor mental health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This will require attention to the full spectrum of Aboriginal life experience. There needs to be commitment at all levels of government in terms of funding, policy development and support, for the implementation of culturally-appropriate programs and services.

There must be recognition that self-determination of Aboriginal people will be the foundation of true progress.

NACCHO strongly recommends that government engage in meaningful dialogue with it, the Sector Support Organisations and ACCHSs, in relation to the proposals canvassed in this submission, and work in partnership to address the significant and continual inequity of access to culturally-safe mental health and social / emotional wellbeing services for all Aboriginal people.”

Download a full NACCHO copy :

Network Submission – Mental Health Services Rural Remote Aust – 23.8.18 – FINAL

Read over 190 NACCHO Aboriginal Mental Health articles pubished over last 6 years 

 

“ In keeping with this Indigenous model of SEWB, AMSANT believes that integrating SEWB,
Mental health and AOD, which work toward preventing and addressing these issues, into
Primary Health Care (PHC) Services is the most cost-effective approach to the delivery of
mental health services throughout rural and remote NT.

In keeping with the model, SEWB programs require funding for multidisciplinary, culturally and trauma informed teams with expertise across these various aspects of wellbeing for Aboriginal communities.

SEWB services are designed to support individuals, families and communities in all aspects of life
that strengthen wellbeing,”

From AMSANT’s seperate submission 

sub129_AMSANT

Introduction

The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) welcomes the opportunity to provide input for the Senate inquiry into Accessibility and quality of mental health services in rural and remote Australia.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people represent approximately 3% of the population, yet are disproportionately over-represented in a negative way on almost every indicia of social, health and wellbeing determinants.[i]

Commonly recognised factors causing these disparities include intergenerational trauma, racism and social exclusion, as well as loss of land and culture.[ii] They are vastly over-represented in mental health services[iii], and evidence of the gap in mental health outcomes compared with their non-Indigenous peers is well documented.[iv]

For example, a 2016 report states that Aboriginal males aged 25–29 years have the highest rates of suicide in the world.[v] Underscoring these health disparities, the rate of admissions to specialised psychiatric care has been found to be double that of non-Indigenous Australians.[vi]

Mental health and wellbeing is integral to the individual and collective ability to think, express and engage productively in work and in life.[vii] A multitude of relevant national frameworks and reforms have highlighted the mental health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a priority, with a focus on prevention and early intervention. The nexus for bridging the gap is cultural security, which includes access to culturally-safe mental health and social / emotional wellbeing services.[viii] However, this access, in particular in regional, remote and very remote locations, is highly inconsistent and in many locations is non-existent.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services

NACCHO is the peak body representing 145 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) across Australia. ACCHSs provide comprehensive primary health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at over 300 Aboriginal medical clinics. Three million episodes of care are delivered to around 350,000 people each year (over 47% of the Aboriginal population); a third of these in remote areas.

The ACCHS sector is the largest single employer of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the country, employing 6,000 staff. Evidence that the ACCHS model of primary health care delivers better outcomes for Aboriginal people is well established. The model has its genesis in the people’s right to self-determination, and is predicated on principles that incorporate a holistic, person-centred, whole-of-life, culturally-safe approach. Without exception, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities lead, define, design, control and deliver their own services and programs, they achieve improved outcomes.[ix] The principles of self-determination and community control remain central to the people’s wellbeing and sovereignty.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to experience disadvantage in equity of access to mental health services. This is a major concern requiring immediate redress by governments at all levels. Despite inequitable levels of funding and resources[x], ACCHSs continue to meet the challenges of addressing the burden of disease and mental ill-health of communities. Further investment is needed to expand and build capacity of the Aboriginal Mental Health Workforce (AMHW), to deliver culturally-safe mental health and social / emotional wellbeing services. As the predominant primary health care providers to Aboriginal people, ACCHSs are best placed to deliver appropriate services. Aboriginal Health Workers and Health Practitioners (AHW/P) as ‘cultural brokers’ are vital to bridge the prevailing gap between mainstream mental health services and Aboriginal consumers’ access to mental health care, treatment and support.[xi]

The nature and underlying causes of rural and remote Australians accessing mental health services at a much lower rate

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to under-utilise health services, despite experiencing poorer health. They are over-represented in rural and remote areas, so the issue of remoteness in accessing mental health services is particularly important for them.[xii] Data from the 2011 Census show that 3% of Australians (669,881) identified as Indigenous; 21% lived in remote or very remote areas[xiii], compared to only 1.7% of non-Indigenous Australians. Aboriginal people represent 16% and 45% of all people living in remote and very remote areas respectively.[xiv]

The geographical challenges in ACCHS availability and lack of resources to access culturally-appropriate mental health services restricts choice for Aboriginal people; this is compounded when they have to travel long distances from their communities for care and treatment. Mainstream services cannot provide culturally-appropriate care for the mental health needs of Aboriginal people, particularly those living in rural, remote and very remote locations.

Culturally-safe mental health services – ACCHS’ preferred provider status

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people identify culture as key to mental wellbeing and evidence shows that culturally-safe early intervention and prevention programs and services are the most effective in reducing poor mental health and suicide.

Like all Australians, Aboriginal people are influenced by their experiences when accessing health services, including cultural responsiveness.[xv] In 2012–13, a reported 7% of Aboriginal adults avoided seeking health care because they had been treated unfairly by doctors, nurses or other staff at hospitals or surgeries.[xvi] Those with mental illness experience extreme social and emotional divorcement, alienation from their families, country of origin and their identity. Self-esteem and a sense of empowerment are important in recovery-based models of care, and arguably the best way to achieve this for Aboriginal people is to hand over control of the design and delivery of services to them.[xvii] In providing culturally-safe, holistic and community-based care, Aboriginal community controlled organisations have been identified as best placed to deliver mental health services.

It is important to emphasise that culture must be considered for best practice mental health models of service for Aboriginal people. This includes the multi-faceted impact of intergenerational trauma and its inextricable link to mental health and social / emotional wellbeing.[xviii]

Funding inequities

Despite 30% of Australia’s population living in regional, rural and remote areas[xix], Commonwealth mental health funding is inequitably distributed, and the delivery of services to these locations is severely compromised, resulting in greater costs overall. Ample evidence suggests that better allocation of resources and cost-effective funding in the ACCHS sector would result in better mental health outcomes for Aboriginal people.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people not seeking the mental health care they need in a timely manner, if at all, due to a lack of culturally-safe services, results in individuals becoming increasingly unwell. This escalates emergency or voluntary admissions to hospitals, usually in an acute state – admission, treatment and follow-up cost around $19,782 per person.[xx] This is a significantly higher cost than investing in ACCHSs to deliver community-based mental health services, closer to where people live, keeping people well in the community and preventing hospital admissions.

Despite the ACCHS sector’s ongoing advice to governments at all levels, about effectively addressing the mental health disadvantage and disparities experienced by Aboriginal Australians, funding continues to be directed to mainstream services. Substantial funding and essential resources are redirected from ACCHSs and administered to Primary Health Networks. This lack of transparency is having a deleterious and inequitable impact on Aboriginal people’ access to appropriate services. Despite the rhetoric, funding needed for ACCHSs is not ending up in Aboriginal hands; if government is serious about closing the gaps in health and mental health services, it is imperative to direct funding for Aboriginal service delivery to the ACCHS sector.

The higher rate of suicide in rural and remote Australia

The 2016 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project (ATSISPEP) report noted that suicide has emerged in recent decades as a major cause of Aboriginal premature mortality and contributes to overall health and life expectancy gaps. In 2014, suicide was the fifth leading cause of death among Aboriginal people, with the age-standardised rate around twice as high as the non-Indigenous rate.[xxi] Alarmingly, Aboriginal children and young people are particularly vulnerable, comprising 30% of suicide deaths among those under 18 years of age. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Aboriginal people aged 14–34[xxii] and those aged 15–24 are over five times as likely to commit suicide as their non-Indigenous peers.

In Australia, rates of suicide and self-harm are higher in rural and remote areas, [xxiii]; and Aboriginal people are more than twice as likely to commit suicide than non-Indigenous people.[xxiv] From 2001–2010, most suicides among Aboriginal people occurred outside of capital cities, in stark contrast to non‑Indigenous suicides, which mostly occurred within cities.[xxv]

In recent years, several efforts have been made to tailor and implement suicide awareness training for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and communities. However, as highlighted in the ATSISPEP report, efforts to reduce suicide must not only address social and economic disadvantage but narrow the gap in health status. Strategies need to promote healing and build the resilience of ‘individuals, families and communities by strengthening social and emotional wellbeing and culture’.[xxvi]

Addressing the higher rates of suicide in Aboriginal communities is a priority for any plan that aims to reduce suicide in rural and remote areas. It will require investment by all levels of government to increase the response capacity of health workers. Further investment in consultation with the communities is needed to design a national capacity-building strategy to respond to the issue.[xxvii]

The nature of the mental health workforce

A range of strategies and actions are required to create an effective, empowered workforce for the mental health wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. These have been identified in a National Strategic Framework for 2017–2023[xxviii] on this topic. A key requirement is a highly skilled and supported workforce, operating in a clinically and culturally-safe way.

Identifying current capacity and gaps in the workforce is important, to better target investment[xxix]. This includes the organisational capacity of Aboriginal and mainstream mental health services as well as skill and availability gaps in the primary mental health professions – nursing, occupational therapy, psychiatry, psychology and social work. It is also vital to consider the links and development opportunities across the different workforces in mental health, social / emotional wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, family violence and relevant others.

Aboriginal Mental Health Workforce

Critical to positive mental health outcomes for Aboriginal people in rural and remote areas is a reinvestment in community mental health services, and in a committed workforce. A comprehensive Aboriginal Mental Health Workforce (AMHW) is required to improve the cultural responsiveness and safety of these services, to provide appropriate systems of care.

The AMHW plays an important role as ‘cultural broker’, through its advocacy and cultural advice, in the mental health legislation of a number of jurisdictions. Established in both mainstream health services and the ACCHS, the AMHW delivers specialist, holistic and culturally-safe services, which are key to addressing disadvantage and improving mental health outcomes. It helps to bridge the cultural gap, enabling Aboriginal consumers to effectively access mental health services, including presence of an AHW/P during assessment and treatment.

In recognising that Aboriginal community controlled organisations are best placed to deliver health services to communities, improved coordination between ACCHSs and Local Health Districts is needed. The placement of Aboriginal mental health workers in the ACCHS sector, working in conjunction with mainstream services, could help develop integrated models of care, to increase the capacity and confidence of services to work with communities. This working partnership could potentially progress a historically arduous relationship and would increase the capacity of AHW/P in mental health and access to specialist support.

The uncertain and cyclic funding paradigm is a factor undermining the retention of a skilled Aboriginal workforce, and its training and working conditions. Consequently, this has a deleterious effect on achieving sustained improvements in treatment and care of Aboriginal people with mental health problems, particularly those with complex, severe and persistent illnesses.

The challenges of delivering mental health services in the regions

The challenges for people with mental illness in rural and remote areas are well known, and include distance, availability of health services, lower socioeconomic status, and shortages of GPs, specialist medical services and AHW/P. Most barriers in accessing mental health services in these communities are structural, including cost, transportation, or time constraints.[xxx] Geographic and professional isolation also make rural or remote communities less attractive to mental health practitioners, making it difficult to recruit and retain them.[xxxi]

Lack of funding for the ACCHS sector

A major contributor to the poor delivery of mental health services in rural and remote areas is the lack of funding. In the current context where health services, for mental health in particular, are under extreme pressure to meet urban population needs, the capacity of state governments to fund specialist mental health services to people outside of cities is diminished.[xxxii] The funding transition in 2013, from the Ministry of Health – Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health to the Department of the Prime Minister in Cabinet, led to a reduced AMHW and programs in the ACCHS sector, disadvantaging communities and the sector itself.

Continual under-funding of ACCHSs is a limiting factor that impedes the capacity to improve the mental health outcomes of Aboriginal people, particularly in rural, remote and very remote areas. Government investment is ad hoc, often directed towards mainstream service delivery, with non-Aboriginal services delivering care to Aboriginal people. These services are seen to lack the cultural knowledge, competence, capacity and understanding to effectively engage with Aboriginal people and their communities. Funding referred to mainstream services has resulted in many Aboriginal people failing to present at appointments or dis-engaging due to these services being culturally unsafe or inappropriate. It has also contributed to expensive increases in hospital admission rates for acute and complex conditions.

The ACCHS sector has consistently shown its capacity to achieve better health outcomes for Aboriginal people through delivering comprehensive, culturally-safe health, prevention and early intervention services in a more cost-effective way. However, adequate funding is still required to expand services in regions where they are inaccessible or demand is greater. ACCHSs contend that procurement approaches lacking in cultural safety will not provide equity of access for communities. These approaches, which deny Aboriginal community controlled services the opportunity to access resources to deliver appropriate services related to mental health, will continue to fall short, preventing effective social policy implementation and outcomes for communities and for government.

It is in the government’s interest to invest in the ACCHS sector to provide prevention and early intervention services, due to the significant economic burden of mental illness. There is a strong argument for optimising investment in areas where populations are most at risk and vulnerable.

Service delivery – need for greater coordination

Better services coordination between government and non-government organisations is a significant issue impacting Aboriginal people, particularly to address their needs in a culturally-appropriate and holistic way. Like many governments, the South Australian Government has acknowledged the barriers that departmental silos represent for the provision of appropriate and effective mental health care to Aboriginal people.

The Commonwealth Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Services Initiative is an example. This initiative is intended to mitigate access disparities and provide more coordinated care. However, application of the Modified Monash Model geographical classification system to determine eligibility requirements denies access for Aboriginal people living in many regional, remote and very remote locations, particularly in Western Australia.

Improved coordination of services is essential to reduce hospital admissions and ensure that Aboriginal people do not continue to be ‘lost’ in a system that does not understand or respond to their cultural and mental health needs. Paramount to ensuring consumers receive the right care is a more ‘wrap-around’, culturally-safe, holistic service model, implemented at all levels of government and non-government organisations. The ACCHS sector is the expert in this regard and is best placed to deliver services and educate the mainstream sector, with respect to relevant services for Aboriginal people.

Opportunities that technology presents for improved service delivery

The delivery of mental health services using new technologies is a growing area of practice and research interest. Building capacity within ACCHSs to effectively deliver technology‑based services is a sensible option, but how they will improve patient experience or access must be considered. Online services need to complement rather than replace an early human response in a crisis.

While the relative benefits of online services have not yet been evaluated in terms of their ability to augment traditional face-to-face mental health services, there are positive cost and service efficiencies. Research indicates that web-based services that provide mental health information and support can significantly improve mental health outcomes. New developments mean that cognitive behavioural therapies can be adapted into an online environment and be delivered without a counsellor, while providing the same outcomes at a fraction of the cost.[xxxiii]

Telehealth initiatives – such as teleconferencing and videoconferencing – are being used globally to deliver mental health services (assessment, consultation and therapy), and to fill prevention, assessment, diagnosis, counselling and treatment[xxxiv] service gaps in rural and remote locations. For people living in rural and remote Australia, the recent introduction of a new Medicare rebate, aimed at improving access to telehealth psychological services, is an important step. This means people can claim a rebate for up to seven videoconferencing consultations with psychologists and other mental health professionals. With Medicare data showing that per capita MBS expenditure on mental health services in remote areas is less than a quarter of that in major cities[xxxv], this is indeed a substantial improvement in the supply of services to disadvantaged populations.

A significant benefit of technology is the online access to training and referral advice for health professionals in rural and remote areas. Not only can web-based services have great potential for consumers, they can also offer education to mental health professionals, GPs and other staff.

While many approaches to online service delivery are still in their infancy, there are plenty of opportunities to combine research with new telehealth programs and evaluation of their effectiveness. A number of Member Services are currently trialling telehealth in remote areas with positive results, despite facing challenges with set-up and costs. While there is great potential for the development of mental health internet-based and mobile apps, it is important that these are inclusive and culturally appropriate for Aboriginal consumers. This requires investment and direct involvement of the ACCHS sector.

NACCHO Aboriginal Health #ACCHO Deadly Good News stories : #NSW @Galambila ACCHO Keynote at #NATSIHWAsym18 #QLD @Apunipima #NT @MiwatjHealth #VIC Wathaurong ACCHO

1.National : Australian Digital Health Agency has produced a My Health Record animation for ACCHOs that has been translated into 13 different languages

2. NSW : Keynote at #NATSIHWAsym2018 Creating Value at Galambila ACCHO Aboriginal Health Service

3. QLD : The Apunipima ACCHO Cape York Social Emotional Wellbeing Team Walk to Raise Awareness of Mental Health

4.NT : Miwatj ACCHO Tackling Indigenous Smoking  Team were invited by Yalu to join a camp out at Ŋayawili Outstation

5. VIC : Aboriginal Community Health and Fitness Challenge comes to Wathaurong ACCHO

6.WA : Not good news : As PM Scott Morrison abandons WA’s remote communities

 

 View hundreds of ACCHO Deadly Good News Stories over past 6 years

Download the Interim Draft Program released 1 October 

NACCHO 7 Page Conference Program 2018_v3

MORE INFO AND REGISTER FOR NACCHO AGM

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

Email to Colin Cowell NACCHO Media 

Mobile 0401 331 251

Wednesday by 4.30 pm for publication each Thursday /Friday

 

1.National : Australian Digital Health Agency has produced a My Health Record animation for ACCHOs that has been translated into 13 different languages:

Watch Translation 

  • Yolngu matha (NT – Arnhem Land)
  • Pitjanytjatjarra  (NT, SA and WA – APY Lands)
  • Arrernte (NT – Central desert)
  • Warlpiri (NT – Central desert)
  • Gurindji Kriol (NT – North/central west region)
  • Roper River Kriol (NT – North/central east region)
  • Tiwi (NT – Tiwi Islands)
  • Murrinh Patha  (NT – Port Keats region)
  • Kunwinjku (NT – Arnhem Land)
  • Alyawarr (NT – Central desert)
  • Anindilyakwa (NT – Groote Eylandt)
  • Pintupi Luritja (NT, WA – APY Lands)
  • Burarra (NT – Arnhem Land)

You can check them out here 

2. NSW : Keynote at #NATSIHWAsym2018 Creating Value at Galambila ACCHO Aboriginal Health Service

 ” No matter where I worked, there were cultural clashes that caused division in workplaces especially in Aboriginal Affairs because of the risk factor politically and socially”

Kristine Garrett CEO Galambila ACCHO is from Central Queensland with ancestral ties to the Wulli Wulli and the Darumbal people of the region and was a keynote speaker for NATSIHWA Professional Development Symposium 2018, ‘Engaging our Workforce’, the focus was on upskilling  Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners through a series of interactive workshops. 

Originally Published Indigenous X

For most of my career I have travelled up and down the east coast of Australia doing different jobs. At the age of 27 I was living and working on the Block in Redfern. I was there when the Eora Centre (back then it was the Visual and Performing College) was just being built. They were radical times – one Radio Redfern Tagline ‘The Station that make your Black Hearts Burn’. Nostalgic I know but, them were the days.

In 2013 I was fortunate to be offered the CEO Position at Galambila in Coffs Harbour New South Wales. As someone from off-country, and a Murrie to boot, you have to work hard on community and kinship protocols.

No matter what age you have to walk the culture path, be humble, pay respect to elders, ask where you can or cannot go and ask what community want to see at their organisation. Sometimes it is something very simple like offering a cup of tea.

Building rapport is sometimes based on unwritten codes – we are still oral people and so much is dependant on what we say and do; or we do what we say. Some family groups already knew me from the Redfern days or had ways of finding out about me. So my transition was slow and I really wanted to gain an insight into the community and the organisation.

No matter where I worked, there were cultural clashes that caused division in workplaces especially in Aboriginal Affairs because of the risk factor politically and socially. Sometimes subtle organisational norms, other times quite blatant practices bordering on racism, and sometimes we as Aboriginal people are too accepting of the racial overtones.

My observations at Galambila that initially bio-medical constructs dominated the culture of our organisation and it caused tension across into other areas. Our Aboriginal workforce are from the community so they faced the same social disadvantage, sometimes they are the only income of the extended family, at times they cannot pay bills, they face violence and as a CEO I too carry a cultural load..

What occurs when tensions are driven from multiple identities; bio-medical, political, social and individualised, it becomes unclear what we stand for as an organisation.

We face those tensions today especially relating to Traditional Medicine. Even today I continue with my debate about traditional medicine; we can place a bowl of Apples on the reception table and say ‘this is good for you’ and yet we can’t say the same for Wattle Tree Tea, Sarsprilla Vine or even my go to herb native Gumbi Gumbi.

Is it that they haven’t been studied? Or is it because they haven’t been grafted and commercialised? I am yet to find the answer so I continue to stimulate the conversation.

The World Health Organisation has established guidelines for alternative approaches, acupuncture etc and we are sometimes too slow to capitalise on our opportunities. It becomes a resourcing issue always doing the urgent rather than the important things.

Major changes were introduced in 2014 at Galambila. The Aboriginal Workforce moved to front-line services, it didn’t matter whether the workers were drivers, facility maintenance workers, receptionist, admin, doctors, nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers, Board members, community members or other key stakeholders everybody could have a say.

The challenge was we were no closer to knowing what we stood for as an organisation. We needed a framework to bind all the differencing of opinions to identify our true essence of what we say and do.

Through a quality framework ‘Yiidagay Darundaygu’ (Gumbaynggir Language ‘Always becoming good for a Purpose’). The Cultural Integrity was formed and we are still working on it today.

Giinagay is hello in Gumbaynggir Language – our Board were the real drivers to the introduction of Gumbaynggir Language across the organisation as it provides a connection, automatically when you engage with Galambila you are part of something wonderful.

Galambila’s Image is paramount we are no longer known as Gamin-billa, our business is to care and sometimes that is as simple as a smile when you walk into the Clinic, offering a cup of tea.  Laughter is the sweet sound of success not forgetting Galambila is also a place where we can cry. Giinagay is hello in Gumbaynggir Language – our Board were the real drivers to the introduction of Gumbaynggir Language across the organisation as it provides a connection, automatically when you engage with Galambila you are part of something wonderful.

What has been an unexpected benefit to our approach, has been Galambila serving an active Aboriginal Clients demographic representing 87% of the Aboriginal population on the Coffs Coast.  Our medicare income has tripled over 4 years. To lead collectively is a willingness to dream for the same things. With a stable Board of Directors, fantastic management, solid staff and loyalty to our community anything is possible – but be warned it is a lot of hard bloody work.

Awesome address by Tyson Morris who started at Galambila Health Service with no qualifications. He now has a Cert 4 in Fitness and completed his clinical training. Galambila is all about up skilling and providing training and study for all their Health Workers.

 

3. QLD : The Apunipima ACCHO Cape York Social Emotional Wellbeing Team Walk to Raise Awareness of Mental Health

Conquer the Corrugations – Cape York Mental Health Awareness Walk, has just completed its fourth annual walk from Coen to Archer River in Cape York and Apunipima Cape York Health Council (Apunipima) were proud sponsors and participants in this year’s event.

Completed over two days, walkers and horse riders, complete the 42 kilometres from Coen to Archer River Roadhouse, camping overnight, just beyond the halfway point on a cattle station.

The 2018 event marks the third year that Maureen Liddy, Apunipima’s Social Emotional Wellbeing Team Leader in Coen has completed the challenge. This year she led a team of Apunipima staff from Coen and Cairns in their first Conquer the Corrugations walk.

“The walk is a good way to demonstrate that with determination we can overcome and achieve anything.” Maureen said.

“It’s important to raise the awareness of mental health in the Cape and this event does a great job getting the message out.” Said Maureen.

Maureen said that even though the event was both a physical and mental challenge, there was support each step of the way from fellow walkers and the organisers.

“People really come together to cheer each other on, give a hug if it’s needed or simply listen to your story while you walk. Often that is all you need to do to help someone whose mental health is suffering.” Maureen added.

Emma Jackson one of the organisers of Conquer the Corrugations, said that the walk was a way to demonstrate that life is a series of ups and downs, just like the corrugations in a dirt road.

“There may be down times, but there will also be up times and if we save one life, if we help one person get the help they need, the event is a success.” Emma said.

“The reason that I am so passionate about this event, is because I want my children to know that it is OK to not be OK all of the time, and to know that there is always someone you can talk to about how you are feeling.” Emma added.

Rachel McIvor and Randall Fyfe, from Apunipima Social Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Centre in Coen were the backbone of the team ensuring that the Apunipima walkers did not need to worry about a chair, or bed at the end of the long days over the long weekend. Rachel also participated on the second day by walking hand in hand with each member of the team across the line in true team spirit.

Maureen’s passion for the event and her determination to walk the entire distance this year, won her the people’s choice award “Spirit of the Walk.” The final 19 kilometres of the walk Maureen completed in socks and thongs, because of the large blisters she developed on day one. That is the spirit of the walk!

“I may be a bit stiff and sore, but I’ll be back next year.”

We have no doubt that Maureen will be one of the first to register for the 2019 Conquer the Corrugations and her infectious enthusiasm will ensure that Apunipima is well represented at next year’s event.

4.NT : Miwatj ACCHO Tackling Indigenous Smoking  Team were invited by Yalu to join a camp out at Ŋayawili Outstation.

Last week, Glen, Oscar and Tarlissa from the Miwatj TIS Team were invited by Yalu to join a camp out at Ŋayawili Outstation.

Our TIS team provided a lot of education on the harmful effects of smoking and the long-term consequences. #StartTheJourney #MiwatjHealth

 

5. VIC : Aboriginal Community Health and Fitness Challenge comes to Wathaurong ACCHO 

 Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative is proud to be launching I Dare Ya!, a free Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing program for the Geelong Community.

With six weeks, six ‘Deadly Dares’ and six fun workouts to challenge yourself and one grouse piece of merchandise up for grabs, I Dare Ya is the most fun you’ll ever have shaking up your health and wellbeing!

Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative invites the Geelong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community to join in I Dare Ya. Learn from Health Professionals about how to create sustainable change, be inspired by motivational speakers who have turned their health around and meet new people on the journey to living their most deadly and healthy lives.

I Dare Ya is a localized and culturally based health promotion program that addresses the growing rates of physical inactivity, obesity and chronic disease in the Aboriginal Community but is the one behavior change program they can’t wait to be apart of!

“With over 50 registrations already, it is the whole of Community and after hours approach that is driving the successful uptake of I Dare Ya” says Laura Thompson, a Gunditjmara woman and managing director of Spark Health.

Each week we will take on a different topic to help us reach our goals before getting moving. We have something for every fitness level. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or running marathons – we’ve got you covered!

Registrations are open for I Dare Ya and more information can be found at

https://sparkhealth.com.au/pages/i-dare-ya

Week One of I Dare Ya kicks off on Thursday 11th October at Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative (62 Morgan Street, North Geelong VIC 3215).

The Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Op are excited to be partnering with Spark Health to launch I Dare Ya in Geelong. “We are proud to offer innovative opportunities for our Community to come together to be healthy, strong and deadly role models. We can’t wait to see everyone there!

  • Free Six Week Health and Wellbeing Program at Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative (62 Morgan Street, Geelong North)
  • Dates: Thursday 11th October to Thursday 15th November 2018.
  • Six Weeks, Six Deadly Dares, Six Fun Workouts, One piece of grouse merch!
  • Registrations now open: www.surveymonkey.com/r/iDareYa
  • Kids welcome, families encouraged to come together.

About Spark Health:

Spark Health is an Aboriginal-led health promotion, Aboriginal Community engagement and communications social enterprise who are experts in designing engaging and innovative Community based programs that add years to peoples’ lives.

At Spark, we are excited about health and believe in the change and ripple effect of a healthy lifestyle in closing the gap.

www.sparkhealth.com.au

About Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative:

The Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd was formed by the community in 1978 to support the social, economic, and cultural development of Aboriginal people, particularly within the Geelong and surrounding areas.

The Co-operative provides a range of services including; family and community services, support to young people, justice support services; cultural heritage services, and health services.  The Co-operative expanded to include a Community Controlled Health Service, which contributes toward addressing the inequality in health status of Aboriginal people. The Wathaurong Health Service supports the general well-being of Aboriginal people by providing holistic health care with clinical and primary care services as well as health promoting activities. Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd is the largest employer of Aboriginal people within the Geelong region.

www.wathaurong.org.au

6.WA : Not good news : As PM Scott Morrison abandons WA’s remote communities

Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s obstinate defence of the Commonwealth Government’s axing of funding to support about 165 remote communities in Western Australia, illustrates his indifference for some of Australia’s most vulnerable people.

Housing Minister Peter Tinley was responding to the Prime Minister’s assertion today that support for remote housing is purely a State responsibility, following the expiration of a $1.2 billion, 10-year joint funding agreement between the Commonwealth and WA on June 30.

The Commonwealth has a 50-year history of supporting remote communities – many of which were established in WA as a result of Federal Government policy.

Under the terms of the former agreement, the Commonwealth contributed about $100 million annually to support the approximately 12,000 people living in 165 remote communities in WA.

The State Government’s annual contribution totals almost $90 million to support and maintain the nation’s most distributed population.

The WA Government has been trying to negotiate a new long-term funding agreement but the Commonwealth has consistently indicated it wants to walk away from any further involvement in funding WA’s remote communities.

Comments attributed to Housing Minister Peter Tinley:

“Premier Mark McGowan wrote to then PM Malcolm Turnbull in May this year to try to gain an agreed outcome to negotiations for a new long-term deal to support remote communities.

“He never got a reply. So last month he wrote to the new PM, Mr Morrison, reiterating the State’s position and asking for his personal intervention to resolve the issue. He is still to receive a reply to that letter.

“Yet today, we see the PM waltzing around Perth declaring that support for vulnerable Western Australians is no longer in the interests of the Commonwealth and that remote housing funding is purely a State responsibility.

“Walking away from a long-term funding agreement for remote communities will leave a $400 million hole in WA’s forward estimates and abandon thousands of Western Australians to further distress.”

 

NACCHO Aboriginal Health and #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth : Download @AIHW BreastScreen Australia monitoring report :Download #Indigenous Resources from @CancerAustralia 

 

” Around 55% of women in the targeted age group of 50–74 participated in the BreastScreen Australia in 2015–2016 with more than 1.7 million screening. Breast cancer mortality has decreased since BreastScreen Australia began from 74 deaths per 100,000 women aged 50–74 in 1991 to 44 deaths per 100,000 women in 2015.

While Indigenous women experience a lower age-standardised incidence rate of breast cancer than non-Indigenous women (rate ratio of 0.9; AIHW 2017c), breast cancer is still the most common cancer diagnosed in Indigenous women. “

Download the full AIHW Report aihw-can-116

NACCHO Aboriginal Women’s Health #BreastCancerAwareness #getChecked : 1.Download #Indigenous Resources from @CancerAustralia 

Participation in BreastScreen Australia and breast cancer outcomes in Indigenous women

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women of Australia, hereafter respectfully referred to as Indigenous women, experience a high burden from breast cancer.

While Indigenous women experience a lower age-standardised incidence rate of breast cancer than non-Indigenous women (rate ratio of 0.9; AIHW 2017c), breast cancer is still the most common cancer diagnosed in Indigenous women.

Aspects of breast cancer and breast screening in Indigenous women are reported by the AIHW and others in various reports and publications, but considering these data individually is not as valuable as considering all available data collectively.

This chapter therefore brings together the BreastScreen Australia participation, incidence and mortality data that previously appeared in several places in this report, and supplements these with additional analyses on incidence, survival and mortality, as well as incorporating data and findings from other published sources.

5.1 Participation in BreastScreen Australia in Indigenous women

Indigenous status of women who participate in BreastScreen Australia is self-reported by women at the time of their screen.

In 2015–2016, participation of Indigenous women aged 50–74 in BreastScreen Australia was 39.1%, compared with the non-Indigenous rate of 54.3% (age-standardised).

Participation trends for Indigenous and non-Indigenous women are shown in Figure 5.1. Historical Indigenous participation rates have been recalculated using new Indigenous population estimates so that meaningful comparisons between reporting periods can be made (see Box 5.1).

Trend data show that the participation rates in Indigenous women aged 50–69 have increased, from around 32%–33% for all reporting periods between 2001–2002 and 2011–2012 to 38% in 2014–2015 and 39% in 2015–2016—although Indigenous women have always had a lower participation rate than non-Indigenous women (Figure 5.2).

Lower participation of Indigenous women may reflect a decreased opportunity to screen, compared with non-Indigenous women, and/or different screening behaviour of Indigenous women (that is, being less likely to screen even with the same opportunity to do so). There may also be a level of under-reporting of Indigenous status in BreastScreen data (as Indigenous status is self-reported by women at the time of their screen), which would also have the effect of lowering the apparent participation rate. This is because under-identification of Indigenous women in BreastScreen data would reduce the size of the numerator without affecting the denominator.

 

Figure 5.1: Participation of women aged 50–74 in BreastScreen Australia, by Indigenous status, 2015–2016 

Source: AIHW analysis of BreastScreen Australia data. Data for this figure are available in Table A1.8.

Figure 5.2: Participation of women aged 50–69 in BreastScreen Australia, by Indigenous status, 1996–1997 to 2015–2016

42 BreastScreen Australia monitoring report 2018

Box 5.1: Indigenous populations

This report uses Indigenous population estimates based on the 2011 Census, which were the most recent estimates available at the time of preparation of this report.

New Indigenous population estimates were released by the ABS in 2014 based on the 2011 Census. These estimates included backcasts of the Indigenous population, as well as population projections to 2026. The backcast estimates of the Indigenous population were considerably larger than those previously published based on the 2006 Census.

This is in part due to improvements in Census coverage and enumeration of Indigenous Australians in the 2011 Census, and an increased likelihood that individuals identified themselves and their children as Indigenous. Historical Indigenous participation rates have been recalculated using these new Indigenous population estimates so that meaningful comparisons between reporting periods can be made over time. Rates presented in this report should not be compared with previously published rates that used population estimates based on the 2006 Census.

Results of a recent Queensland project, ‘Closing the Gap in Breast Cancer Screening’, suggest that different screening behaviour of Indigenous women may play a significant role in their lower participation rates. This project aimed to address barriers to screening for Indigenous women through culturally appropriate messages, art shows and partnerships with local Indigenous groups, in order to build trust, educate and support Indigenous women to attend BreastScreen Australia. The project reported an increase in Indigenous participation from 49% to 56% in 2 years.

Initiatives such as these are common to state and territory BreastScreen programs. These strategies and initiatives are designed to be culturally sensitive and appropriate to the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. They include dedicated and appropriate communication resources, group bookings for Indigenous women who would prefer to attend as a group, and the use of Indigenous artwork. BreastScreen workers liaise closely with Aboriginal Health Workers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community groups to increase acceptance of screening.

In the last quarter of 2014–15, the Australian Government ran the National BreastScreen Australia Campaign to support the expansion of the program to women aged 50–74. The campaign included additional communication activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers, with materials developed in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

Access to BreastScreen services for Indigenous women is a national policy feature of BreastScreen Australia, which has developed National Accreditation Standards (NAS) Measures to ensure that this policy feature is met by services accredited through BreastScreen Australia (see Box 3.3 for more information on NAS Measures and accreditation). These NAS Measures, along with other NAS Measures related to access and participation in BreastScreen Australia, underpin BreastScreen Australia’s aim to maximise the proportion of women in the target population who are screened every 2 years. Table 3.1 shows the NAS Measures related to participation.

5.2 Breast cancer outcomes in Indigenous women

The source of national cancer incidence data in Australia is the Australian Cancer Database (ACD), which is compiled from data supplied by state and territory cancer registries. The cancer registers rely on pathology forms as their primary source of information—which do not include Indigenous status in all states and territories. However, the cancer registers collect

BreastScreen Australia monitoring report 2018 43

information from additional sources, such as hospital records and death records, which allows for information on Indigenous status to be collected where possible.

The level of identification of Indigenous status in the ACD for the period 2009–2013 is considered sufficient to enable analysis in 5 jurisdictions, with data from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. While the majority (89.9%) of Australian Indigenous people live in these 5 jurisdictions, the degree to which data for these jurisdictions are representative of data for all Indigenous people is unknown (ABS 2012).

Analysis of data from these jurisdictions showed that, in 2009–2013, Indigenous women aged 50–74 had a lower incidence rate of breast cancer, at 251 new cases per 100,000 women, compared with 285 new cases for non-Indigenous women (Figure 5.3)—with a similar trend for all ages (99 compared with 111 per 100,00 women).

Note: Rates age-standardised to the Australian population as at 30 June 2001; ‘Total’ rate includes women with a ‘not stated’ Indigenous status and is therefore greater than the ‘Non-Indigenous’ rate.

Source: AIHW Australian Cancer Database 2014. Data for this figure are available in Table A7.8.

Figure 5.3: Incidence of breast cancer in women aged 50–74 (New South West, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory), by Indigenous status, 2009–2013

Survival

Crude survival was also calculated, and found to be lower for Indigenous women, compared with non-Indigenous women—crude survival was 73.7% for Indigenous women of all ages, compared with 84.3% for non-Indigenous women of all ages during the period 2009–2013. Similarly, crude survival was lower in Indigenous women when restricted to women aged 50–74 (75.4% compared with 89.0% for non-Indigenous women).

Mortality

The source of mortality data is the AIHW National Mortality Database, in which information on Indigenous status is considered to be adequate for reporting for 5 jurisdictions: New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

In 2011–2015, the mortality rate from breast cancer was higher in Indigenous women aged 50–74, at 55 deaths per 100,000 women, compared with 46 deaths for non-Indigenous women (Figure 5.4). While participation in BreastScreen Australia has a direct effect on the incidence of breast cancer, additional factors come into play for mortality from breast cancer, such as the stage of cancer at diagnosis, and access to treatment.

NACCHO Aboriginal Health Alert : Download @RoyalFlyingDoc Report : Looking Ahead: Responding to the Health Needs 2028 #Remote population stable, but chronic illness and #rural workforce shortage to jump over decade

“Chronic illness growth and rural workforce shortage is but a forecast.

Investing in country health services and rural health professionals can halt these forecasts from ever being realised.

Investing now will save lives and dollars in the long run.”

RFDS CEO Dr Martin Laverty called the report a call to arms.

Download the Report HERE

RFDS NACCHO_Looking_Ahead_Report_D3

  ” Indigenous Australians comprise approximately 2.8% of the total Australian population, although they comprise almost half the population in remote areas.

The RFDS notes the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and its state-based organisations provide a pivotal service to rural and remote communities. NACCHO supports the Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) which is a primary healthcare service operated by local Aboriginal communities.

The RFDS works in close partnership with many remote branches of the AMS, and respects and promotes the principle of community control “

 “The RFDS respects and acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first Australians and our vision for reconciliation is a culture that strives for unity, equity and respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians.

The RFDS is committed to improved health outcomes and access to health services for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, and our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) outlines our intentions to use research and policy to drive this improvement.

RFDS research and policy reports, such as this one, include data on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of a broader effort to improve health outcomes and access to health services a contribution to the ‘Close the Gap’ campaign.”

RFDS Press Release

Australia’s remote population is forecast to grow only marginally in a decade. Yet chronic illness will rise dramatically, with the burden of mental illness forecast to increase by a fifth, if action is not taken to halt current trends.

Health service access in rural regions is also forecast to lag behind metropolitan areas, according to Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) research: From 90 to 100: Planning for the health needs of country Australia in 2028. The report provides health service forecasts form 2018, the RFDS 90th year of operation until 2028, the centenary year of the RFDS.

The forecast shows while the Australian population will grow from 25 million to 29 million in a decade, remote and very remote Australia’s population will grow by an average of only 0.2% each year, from 493,752 to only 504,724 in 2028.

11.8 million Australians currently live with at least one chronic illness, with 2028 forecasts equalling 13.8 million, a national increase of 15.6%. Yet chronic illness prevalence forecast to remain higher in remote Australia than metropolitan areas.

Disability-adjusted life years (DALY), or the number of years lost to ill-health, disability or early death, are forecast to increase in remote areas over the decade to 2028 with:

  • cancer up by 15.6%, from 37.6 to 44 DALYs;
  • mental illness up by 21.6%, from 21.8 to 27.1 DALYs;
  • neurological conditions such as Alzheimers, up by 47.8%, from 13.2 to 21.5 DALYs.

A welcome fall of 22.8% in the burden of cardiovascular disease in remote Australia is forecast, from 37.6 DALYs down to 29.9 in 2028, reflecting improvement in heart attack prevention and treatment in parts of country Australia.

The report forecasts by 2028 remote Australia will have only:

  • a fifth the number of General Practitioners compared to metropolitan areas (43 compared to 255 per 100,000 population);
  • a twelfth of the number of physiotherapists (23 compared to 276 per 100,000 population);
  • half the number of pharmacists (52 as compared to 113 per 100,000 population);
  • and a third the number of psychologists (34 as compared to 104 per 100,000 population).

Nurse and midwifery levels in metropolitan and remote areas by 2028 are forecast to be almost even, with 1,361 per 100,000 population in city areas and 1,259 in remote areas.

A survey of rural clinicians published in the report finds health literacy, mental health services, and improved access to primary care services are priorities for the next decade. The report also forecasts growth in demand for RFDS services by its centenary year in 2028.

Looking Ahead: Responding to the Health Needs of Country Australia in 2028 is available here

NACCHO Aboriginal Health Workforce and Training News : Our peak bodies @KenWyattMP and @CPMC_Aust Building the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce and strengthening alliances to address the health priorities of Indigenous Australians.

 

” NACCHO stresses the importance of continuing to grow the depth and number of Indigenous people in the health sector.

Improving the health of our people can only occur through partnership, and integrating health care providers with community controlled services is the key.

Ms Patricia Turner, CEO of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)

 “Background :  On 31 May 2017 the Australian Government joined with the Council of Presidents of Medical Colleges, the Australian Indigenous Doctor’s Association and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation as partners to improve the good health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Focussing on Tier Three of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan, partners are working in collaboration to improve system performance by focussing on two key comprehensive areas for collective strategic action: increase the health workforce and embed cultural safety and competency in the system

Download a full copy of the signed agreement 

Signed Agreement

Australia’s peak bodies for Indigenous health and specialist medicine have reaffirmed their commitment to working with the Australian Government as partners in reducing the current gap in health outcomes and life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians under the Closing the Gap strategy.

Introducing the forum held on Wednesday 12th September at Parliament House, Minister Ken Wyatt AM, welcomed the opportunity to continue discussions under the National Partnership, highlighting the Australian Government’s commitment to Closing the Gap as the platform for improving the health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The decision by Australian Health Ministers through the Council of Australian Governments Health Council to develop a National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Plan by 2019 was welcomed by the collaborative partners.

Discussing the key areas of the partnership, cultural safety and access to services remain top priorities.

The Chair of the Council of Presidents of Medical Colleges (CPMC) Dr Philip Truskett AM reported that the key focus area of increasing the Indigenous specialist medical workforce by focussing on support, mentoring, role modelling was core business for Australia’s specialist Medical Colleges.

Indigenous Health Minister Ken Wyatt AM said the collaborative group was ideally placed to play an essential role in the COAG Health Council resolution to develop a National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Medical Workforce Plan – to ensure more Aboriginal doctors, nurses and health workers on country and in our towns and cities, local warriors for health among our families and communities.

Dr Kali Hayward, President Australian Indigenous Doctor’s Association (AIDA) reflected on building culturally appropriate health workforce and the need to discover champions in the system to support training.

Ms Janine Mohammed, CEO Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) highlighted the merit in greater coordination of services to deliver improvements in health outcomes.

Mr Karl Briscoe, CEO, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association (NATSIHWA) highlighted the importance of building the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce and strengthening alliances to address the health priorities of Indigenous Australians.

All partners acknowledged a National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Plan will form the framework for furthering collective action to increase the Indigenous health workforce and embed a cultural safety capability in Australia’s health system.