Supporting reconciliation through real opportunities

24 May 2018

24 May 2018 

St John of God Health Care Group Coordinator Social Justice Advocacy Neal Murphy said this year’s theme, Don’t keep history a mystery: learn, share grow, was important for our organisation to be able to support reconciliation.

“For St John of God Heath Care to be able to support reconciliation today, we need to understand the story of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, now and in the past,” he said.

“This gives us a better understanding of their culture and history and enable us to reach out in solidarity and respect.”

Neal said this understanding has led to a number of partnerships and opportunities across St John of God Health Care including:

• Partnerships with Australian Catholic University NSW through which we sponsor three undergraduate nursing scholarships
• Supporting six Aboriginal university interns across our organisation through Career Trackers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nursing students through Marr Mooditj
• A partnership with Waminda Health and Welfare Aboriginal Corporation supporting a cultural exchange program 
• A member of Supply Nations through which we purchase from Aboriginal-owned businesses

“Our work towards reconciliation is also a part of our organisation through our Social Outreach Aboriginal Attachment Program which enables us to provide resources and training for culturally secure and sensitive parenting,” he said.

“We have also created a cultural protocols resource to support greater understanding and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“Furthermore we are continuing to look at further collaboration and partnership opportunities to further our work towards reconciliation.”

During National Reconciliation Week, from 27 May to 3 June, hospitals will host a range of activities including Aboriginal dances and cultural walks.