National Close The Gap Day, 18th March 2021.
The 3rd Thursday of March each year is used to acknowledge the gap in health, educational and social outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. More than just recognising the challenges Aboriginal people face, the day is a national day of action towards achieving Indiginous health equality by 2030. Close the Gap was launched in 2006.
Some statistics we should think about:
- Indigenous women have a life expectancy 10 years shorter than non-indigenous women.
- Twice as many Indigenous women die in pregnancy.
- Suicide rates in Indigenous communities is double the rate of suicide in non-Indigenous communities.
- Hospitalisation rates are at least double for Indigenous people.
- Indigenous children have higher rates of malnutrition, chronic illness and injury.
What can we do as individuals and small health organisations like SRMG?
- Listen to the voices and stories of our Indigenous friends, neighbours and patients.
- Commit to learning about the trauma of the past.
- Respectfully respond to the smaller needs of individuals.
- Work together with Indigenous people and organisations to support structural changes.
A brighter future is possible for all Australians if we work together.
This article has been written by Dr Liz Tompkins
