Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are to be advised that this blog post may contain images of deceased people.

We wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we are on. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate the diversity of First Nations people and their ongoing cultures and connections to the lands and waters of Australia.

The festive season and the beginning of the New Year often evoke a range of thoughts and feelings. This time marks a period of reflection and renewal, emphasising the importance of prioritising our health and wellbeing. According to the World Health Organisation, “every human being has the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health”. This however hasn’t been the case for First Nations people. Throughout history, First Nations people have faced systemic barriers that have denied access to adequate healthcare services and have created health disparity. To address these inequalities, health and wellbeing services for First Nations People must respect cultural diversity, promote community engagement and meet the needs of First Nations people.

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap is working towards addressing inequalities that exist and finding suitable solutions to ensure that First Nations people achieve life outcomes that are equal to all Australians. It details specific targets and outcomes that address current health inequalities including implementing systems that work towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people enjoying long and healthy lives and their children being born healthy and strong.