Today marks the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations.

This day is an important moment for learning and reflection. It acknowledges the deep and ongoing impacts of past policies on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, families and communities, and recognises the strength, resilience and survival of First Nations peoples.

Central Highlands Rural Health acknowledges and pays respect to the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our organisation operates, including the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri peoples. We honour their continuing connection to land, waters and community.

To mark this day, Central Highlands Rural Health is releasing our Statement of Commitment to First Nations health.

This Statement of Commitment reflects and builds on our values of respect, care, accountability and learning. It guides how we work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations, and how we show up every day as a health service.

We are committed to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through genuine partnership, cultural safety and action.

Through our Statement of Commitment, we commit to building cultural awareness and cultural safety across our workforce, working in partnership with communities to support Closing the Gap, respecting and supporting self-determination, strengthening culturally appropriate care and safe workplaces, addressing racism in all its forms, and continuing our journey of learning that recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of working and holistic approaches to health and wellbeing.

We recognise that meaningful change takes time, accountability and sustained effort. Today is one step in an ongoing journey.

Read our full Statement of Commitment to First Nations health:
[CHRH Commitment to First Nations Health]

Artwork by Tanisha Murray, First Nations artist living on Djaara Country.