From 27 May to 3 June is National Reconciliation Week – a time to learn about our shared histories and cultures to build mutual respect and understanding between Australian’s and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. These dates align with two key milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey – the 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.
This year’s theme, ‘In this together’, aims to highlight that we all have a role to play in building a more equitable and reconciled nation. It also marks the twentieth anniversary of Reconciliation Australia’s inception. A series of posters and digital assets are available to support the campaign.
As part of our reconciliation journey, we developed our first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), Reflect which was successfully completed last year. Our Reflect RAP outlined elements required to build strong relationships, respect and opportunities within our organisation and the Western Sydney Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. We are now developing our Innovate RAP to continue developing these important relationships and help us provide excellent services to our community.
Western Sydney has one of the largest urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations in Australia. We are working together with key community organisations to commission services and programs that support and strengthen the health and well-being of the Western Sydney community such as the following.
The Integrated Team Care program provides a service for those with chronic health conditions through access to primary care services, care coordination, multidisciplinary care and support for self-management. Whilst the Mums and Bubs workshops educate on preparing and cooking nutritional and affordable meals to maintain a healthy lifestyle for participants and their families.
Our dedicated Aboriginal Health Team works to support and enable these and other initiatives within the community and facilitate cultural awareness training for health professionals and staff.
For more information on our Aboriginal health initiatives visit our website.