Media Release – Indigenous Allied Health Australia Launches Cultural Responsiveness Framework

7 August 2015

IAHA Chairperson Ms Faye McMillan, Professor Tom Calma AO and IAHA CEO Ms Donna Murray at the Launch of Cultural Responsiveness in Action: An IAHA Framework.

Professor Tom Calma AO joined Indigenous Allied Health Australia (IAHA), a national not for profit, member based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander allied health organisation, to launch its Cultural Responsiveness in Action: An IAHA Framework on Thursday 6 August 2015 in Canberra.

“Cultural Responsiveness in Action: An IAHA Framework has been developed by IAHA in response to a need for practical strategies to build cultural safety using strengths-based and action-oriented approaches,” said IAHA Chairperson Ms Faye McMillan. “This capability framework provides guidance around what we need to know, be and do in order to be culturally responsive.”

The Framework offers a practical, action-based way forward for individuals, organisations and systems in order to improve their capability to meet the health and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The key capabilities presented in this framework provide an opportunity for any person, regardless of their profession or position, to work towards being culturally responsive to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Taking strengths based, actioned oriented approaches to achieving cultural safety are essential if we are serious about achieving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health equality. This is the essence of being culturally responsive,” said Professor Calma as he launched the Framework. “Underlying this framework is the goal of equitable access to affordable, available, acceptable and appropriate healthcare and improved life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

“We are committed to building and supporting a strong and resilient Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce and a culturally responsive wider workforce acting in partnership with individuals, families and communities,” said Ms McMillan. “We see this Framework as an important step as we continue to work together with our members, partners and stakeholders towards making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

If you are interested in knowing more about Cultural Responsiveness in Action: An IAHA Framework, it can be accessed online here or you can contact IAHA on 02 6285 1010.

IAHA Media Contact – Ms Donna Murray, IAHA CEO, (02) 6285 1010.