As a result of past and ongoing repercussions of colonisation, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face significant disparities in physical and social determinants of health compared to non-Indigenous Australians. We are committed to redressing these health inequities through culturally appropriate, collaborative research that makes a meaningful difference to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.
We are taking significant steps towards an institute-wide approach to culturally appropriate and safe research, in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Our intention is to make a meaningful difference in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes.
This starts by recognising and responding to the historical and ongoing impacts and experiences of colonisation, destructive government policies, loss of land, language and culture, forced removal of children from families, racism, discrimination and intergenerational trauma that result in significant health inequity.
We are working to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination and to end the ongoing social and health injustices.
Our work is guided by our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The RAP is driven and developed by our staff and students, under the guidance of our RAP Committee.
Our approach includes:
- engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and stakeholders, to cultivate mutual learning and lasting, respectful, reciprocal relationships
- respecting the right to self-determination
- listening, learning and collaborating
- promoting opportunities for equitable and equal participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in shaping our work and our world and wherever possible ensuring that initiatives are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led
- improving our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, and observation of cultural protocols
- creating opportunities for capacity building
- exploring opportunities to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarships
- ensuring financial sustainability for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research
- embedding practical actions that lead to reconciliation into all our research.
Our collaborative projects include:
- The Australian Collaboration for Chlamydia Enhanced Sentinel Surveillance
- Eliminate Hepatitis C Partnerships – Health Promotion Working Group
- the development of culturally safe and appropriate research guidelines.
Our current activities include community partnerships with:
- The Boon Wurrung Foundation
- Victorian Aboriginal Health Service
- Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
- South Australian Aboriginal Health Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)
- National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO).
