Sector Leader Issue 20 April/May 2021

April/May 2021

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SectorLeader MAGAZINE

Keep Bubba Safe Vaccination Schedule

ADVOCATING FOR HEALTH EQUITY

Let's talk about healthy sex

QLD NEWS

Queensland Government announces Treaty Advancement Committee

QAIHC NEWS

Conducting research, the right way

First Member event of 2021

VAX FACTS

Vaccination roll-out and what it all means for Queensland’s ATISCCHOs Data Room Oral Health

QAIHC Youth Health Network Profile Taylor Moxham

Deadly Reading and Viewing

SEWB

Healing: Our Journey

CEO MESSAGE We welcome submissions from our Members, Associates and Affiliates on the great work being undertaken within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisation Sector.

If you would like to contribute story ideas for consideration or comment on items in the current issue, please contact our Communications Team at communications@qaihc.com.au.

Previous issues can be viewed online at qaihc.com.au

We are a quarter of the way through the year already, and QAIHC is heavily focused on Health Equity and the COVID-19 vaccinations.

As many of you will know by now, we are working closely with Queensland Health to shape a new direction in health for Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This new direction fits nicely with the Close the Gap National Agreement and will see more services and support come into the Community Controlled Health Sector; read all about it on page 10.

January/February 2021

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SectorLeader MAGAZINE

Stepping into the New Year

BIRTHING STORY ARTWORK FOR MSIP RESOURCES

NEWS QUEENSLAND NATIONAL GOVERNMENT

Conducting research, the right way

Launch of the Queensland Youth Health Strategy

QAIHC AGM

QAIHC STATE MEMBERS’ CONFERENCE

DANIA AHWANG

The determined CEO of Wuchopperen Health Service Limited Data Room

Closing the Gap

QAIHC Youth Health Network Profile Semara Jose

Deadly Reading and Viewing

SEWB

Healing: Our Journey

QAIHC are continuing to monitor the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19 and the delivery and roll out of the vaccines; we address some frequently asked questions on page 12. It is important to remember however, that regardless of the vaccination roll out it is still important to socially distance yourself from others and to wash and/or sanitise your hands and surfaces frequently.

This edition also features a continuation of ethical research (page 20), information about Active Ingredient Prescribing in

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that this publication may contain images or names of people who have passed away.

Medicare Matters (page 7), an update on the GOANNA research project and a fantastic article from the Australian Human Rights Commission about the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) Report on page 8.

I look forward to getting to know our Members and stakeholders more, as I settle into my role here at QAIHC.

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council First Floor, 36 Russell Street South Brisbane QLD 4101 P 07 3328 8500

I welcome any feedback, suggestions, or news to share. If you have something you'd like to submit, contact the QAIHC Communications Team at communications@qaihc.com.au James William Chief Executive Officer

NEXT EDITION JUNE 2021

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

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CONTENTS 2 National News 3 Queensland News 4 Government News

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5

QAIHC News Staffing and event updates

6 Keep Bubba Safe Vaccination schedule 7 Medicare Matters Pharmaceutical

Benefits Scheme (PBS) Mandatory Active Ingredient Prescribing

8 Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women's Voices) Report 9 QAIHC Youth Health Network Taylor Moxham 10 Advocating for Health Equity 12 Vax facts COVID 19 vaccination facts

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13 Swab for mob Poster

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14 Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network 15 Data Room Oral Health 16 Research Let's talk about healthy sex— Goanna Survey 2

18 CQI Using data for purposes of CQI 19 Health Information Team

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20 Research Conducting research, the right way 22 Policy Productivity Commission’s Mental Health Inquiry Report

24 HR Changes to the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2010

26 SEWB Narrative Therapy Cairns 2020 27 SEWB Congratulations to the SEWB graduates for 2020

28 Deadly Reading and Viewing

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29 Events Calendar 30 Our Members and Board

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

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NATIONAL NEWS

Housing for Aboriginal Health The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) have released a new policy position paper ‘Housing for Aboriginal Health’.

Housing is a key determinant of health; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face a range of issues that prevent access to affordable, adequate, safe and sustainable housing. Overcrowding is increasingly prevalent, making household members further susceptible to the burden of disease, psychological distress and other health and wellbeing issues.¹ The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the importance of housing for maintaining health and slowing and stopping the spread of disease. Significant Australian, State and Territory Government leadership and investment is urgently needed to improve housing and health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For more information visit naccho.org.au/news/naccho-policy-position-paperaboriginal-housing-or-aboriginal-health

Leadership during COVID-19 The 2021 Close the Gap report, ‘Leadership and Legacy Through Crises: Keeping our Mob Safe’, released in March calls for significant systemic reform, an end to deaths in custody, and investment in Indigenous health, wellbeing, culture and Country.

The report also touched on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in managing the coronavirus outbreak across the nation.

During COVID-19, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders moved quickly and decisively to safeguard communities; proving that programs which are designed and led by our mob are the most effective way to achieve better health outcomes.

COVID-19 rates of infection were six times lower for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people compared with the rest of Australia.

The report was written by the Close the Gap campaign in partnership with the Lowitja Institute and can be read at lowitja.org.au/page/services/resources/ Cultural-and-social-determinants/culture-for-healthand-wellbeing/close-the-gap-report-2021

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RACGP appoints first Aboriginal Censor The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have appointed for the first time, an Aboriginal Censor Dr Olivia O’Donoghue, a descendant of the Yankunytjatjara people and the Narungga Nations people.

RACGP Censors play a vital role in supporting all GPs in training as they progress to Fellowship.

As Censor, Dr O’Donoghue will be responsible for maintaining the standards, fairness and integrity of the RACGP Fellowship program—the largest training program for GPs in urban and rural Australia.

Dr O’Donoghue completed an undergraduate medical degree at the University of Adelaide, where she advanced her passion for rural and remote health and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

Dr O’Donoghue said she was excited to take on her new role as Censor.

“I am extremely passionate about the quality and integrity of general practice training. High quality and holistic training is essential for the delivery of effective primary care to our communities—especially our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“As an Aboriginal woman who has achieved RACGP Fellowship myself, I know the journey to Fellowship well, and am honoured to be tasked with contributing to the high standards and integrity of the program.

“I will endeavour to support all GPs in training on this journey and look forward to working with education and pathways on this. I want to ensure there are effective strategies for access to training opportunities and successful Fellowship for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors as there is much to be achieved in narrowing the gap in GP workforce equity”.

For more information visit https://www.racgp.org.au/gpnews/media-releases/2020-media-releases/december-2020/ racgp-appoints-first-aboriginal-censor-supporting Reference see page 29

QUEENSLAND NEWS

Queensland Government announces Treaty Advancement Committee

Elevated levels of dementia found in the Torres Strait James Cook University’s (JCU) Professor Edward Strivens and Associate Professor Sarah Russell from the Healthy Ageing Research Team, were part of a group that examined 276 Torres Strait residents aged between 45 and 93.

The study captured data from all 18 island and five mainland communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of Far North Queensland.

“Dementia affects more than 46 million people worldwide, with rates expected to double in high-income countries and treble in low-to middleincome countries by 2050. In Australia, dementia is the second overall leading cause of death and the leading cause of death in females,” said Professor Strivens.

The Treaty Advancement Committee members are: Dr Jackie Huggins AM (Co-Chair): Bidjara/Birri Gubba Juru woman, former Co-Chair of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples, and former Co-Chair of the Path to Treaty Eminent Panel and Treaty Working Group

He said participants in the study underwent a comprehensive health assessment and a geriatrician assessment.

“When we looked at the data, the prevalence of dementia in the sample was 14.2 per cent, which is 2.87 times higher than the wider Australian population. In the 60 to 69 year age group it was 4.4 times higher than the general population,” said Associate Professor Russell.

She said the increased risk of dementia in younger age groups in the study was consistent with other studies in Aboriginal communities, particularly the higher rate in those aged 60–69 years.

“As in Aboriginal communities, dementia of Alzheimer's type was the most frequently diagnosed dementia followed by vascular dementia—a subtype caused by brain damage from impaired blood flow to the brain after, for instance, a stroke,” said Professor Strivens.

He said whether the Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities share or have distinct patterns of risk factors is not yet clear, and analysis of specific risk factors for dementia within the current sample is underway.

“The results highlight the need for education and training for health workers and clinicians around screening and assessment for dementia in younger adults living in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” said Associate Professor Russell.

She said many of the issues related to dementia and the ongoing effects of the disease itself are responsive to intervention.

“It highlights the importance of developing culturally appropriate screening and intervention strategies to address the high rates of chronic disease and excess disability identified within the study,” said Professor Strivens.

For more information visit jcu.edu.au/news/releases/2020/december/ high-levels-of-dementia-found-in-the-torres-strait#:~:text=New%20 research%20reveals%20dementia%20levels,of%20the%20wider%20 Australian%20population

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Honourable Craig Crawford MP announced the government has taken the next step with Queensland’s first Treaty Advancement Committee formalised.

Mr Mick Gooda (Co-Chair) Ghungalu man, former Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner of the Australian Human Rights Commission, and former Co-Chair of the Treaty Working Group Emeritus Professor Michael Lavarch AO, former Attorney General for Australia and former Co-Chair of the Path to Treaty Eminent Panel Ms Josephine Bourne, a Gumulgal woman of Mabuiag Island (Torres Strait) and former member of the Path to Treaty Eminent Panel Ms Sallyanne Atkinson AO, first female Lord Mayor of Brisbane, former Senior Trade Commissioner (Paris) and former Special Representative for Queensland in South East Asia.

The committee will engage all Queenslanders in shaping the next steps on the Path to Treaty; empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders to be more included and involved in driving better outcomes for their communities.

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

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GOVERNMENT NEWS

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) examines health status and outcomes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including life expectancy, leading causes of illness and death, mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, and community functioning.

The 2020 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework (HPF) monitors progress in 68 performance measures across three tiers: Health status and outcomes Determinants of health Health system performance.

The 68 measures show mixed results; with improvements in some areas and no change or worsening in others.

Determinants of health are the environmental and socioeconomic conditions that can affect health.

These include education, employment, income, housing, child protection, justice, culture and access to traditional land, and health risk factors including smoking, diet and exercise.

Many areas of concern highlighted in the Framework are the focus of new targets in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, signed by the Coalition of Peaks and all Australian Governments in mid-2020.

Islander peoples fell from 323 per 100,000 to 229 in 2018. This improvement coincided with a reduction in smoking and an increase in the uptake of cardiovascular disease-related procedures.

“In good news for Indigenous young people, 85 per cent aged 15–17 reported that they had never smoked, compared to 72 per cent in 2008,” said AIHW spokesperson Dr. Fadwa Al-Yaman.

“Overall, the rate of daily smoking among Indigenous Australians aged 15 years and over declined from 45 per cent in 2008 to 37 per cent in 2018–19.”

Levels of educational attainment have also improved, with the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 20–24 who had a Year 12 or equivalent qualification increased from 45 per cent in 2008 to 66 per cent in 2018–19.

Immunisation rates for Indigenous children have increased, with the vast majority being fully immunised at one, two and five years. The proportion of Indigenous mothers who attended antenatal care during the first trimester of pregnancy increased from 51 per cent to 63 per cent (between 2012 and 2017), with 99 per cent attending at least one antenatal visit.

There have been improvements in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in several areas, including reductions in avoidable deaths and cardiovascular disease.

The number of Indigenous specific primary health care organisations increased from 108 in 1999–2000 to 198 in 2017–18. Episodes of care also increased from 1.3 to 3.6 million, and the number healthcare workers increased from 2,300 to 8,200 over this period.

Between 2006 and 2018, the rate of avoidable deaths fell from 374 to 303 per 100,000 deaths. Despite this, Indigenous Australians still died from preventable causes at three times the rate of nonIndigenous Australians.

However, following improvements in the early 2000s, progress in a number of health outcomes stalled. These include perinatal mortality, infant and child mortality and mortality from respiratory diseases.

Similarly, between 2006 and 2018, deaths from cardiovascular disease among Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Three in ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who needed health care in 2018–19 did not go—the

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Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

Stronger evidence, better decisions, improved health and welfare

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same proportion as in 2012–13. Barriers included cost, and health services being unavailable, far away or with long waiting times.

In 2018–19, 31 per cent of Indigenous adults reported high/very high levels of psychological distress, not significantly different from 2014–15 (33 per cent).

Between 2006 and 2018, there was a 49 per cent increase in the suicide rate (from 18 to 24 per 100,000). The hospitalisation rate for intentional self-harm increased by 120 per cent for Indigenous females and 81 per cent for Indigenous males.

The rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-ofhome care increased from 35 to 54 per 1,000 (between 30 June 2009 and 30 June 2018). The imprisonment rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults increased from 1,337 per 100,000 in 2006 to 2,088 in 2019, a 61 per cent increase and currently 12 times the rate among non-Indigenous Australians.

“The design of the HPF recognises that the health system and factors beyond the health sector contribute to health outcomes, and that achieving better health outcomes requires a wholeof-government approach, working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Dr Al-Yaman said.

To read the full report visit aihw.gov.au/ news-media/ mediareleases/2020/ december/ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islan der Health Perform ance Framewor indigenousk 2020 summary report healthperformanceframework

Blurb to come..

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QAIHC NEWS

First Member event for 2021 QAIHC hosted a threeday Wound Management and Diabetes Education Workshop in Brisbane from 22–24 February 2021.

Roderick Wright — 10 years of service

This was a fantastic professional development opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Health Practitioners and Practice Nurses to gain some invaluable hands-on and theoretical experience.

On 18 January, we celebrated Roderick Wright’s 10 years of working at QAIHC. This year also marks Rod’s 40 years of working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs!.

The feedback we received from the workshop was positive. Participants described the event as being informative, well resourced, diverse and highly engaging.

We thank our program service providers, all participants and QAIHC staff who made the workshop happen.

QAIHC's new staff and role updates QAIHC continues to grow, with more staff coming on board to assist us in supporting the sector. We would like to welcome: James William Chief Executive Officer Jason Fagan Regional Manager Northern Taylor Huddleston Executive Assistant

Public Health Registrar We have been successful in finding a new Public Health Registrar to join us on a part-time basis.

Dr Sophie Manoy will be joining the team in early May and will be based in the Brisbane office.

Sophie is also a part time Paediatric Registrar at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, and we are very excited as to the new skills her appointment will bring to QAIHC.

Congratulations on your 10 years, Rod. Here is to many more with us all at QAIHC!

engagement and education skills to the role, and we wish him every success in this new position and his relocation to Brisbane.

Practice Improvement Coordinator There has been a realignment of the position of Practice Improvement Coordinator that is held by Imogen Malone. Whilst the role will still have a major focus on the development of a Practice

Recruitment is ongoing to find a second part-time registrar to join Sophie in this role.

Health Toolkit, it will now also work

Redesign Working Group, and as

Kanza Agha Policy Officer

Project Officer—NDIS Ready Jermane Herbohn has been successful in being appointed to the position of Project Officer—NDIS Ready and will shortly be moving across to the Policy and Research Division to begin this role.

Georgina Hobson Research and Policy Assistant

The Policy Team are looking forward to having Jermane bring his

Research Division and will work as

Jacob Pagan Communication and Marketing Officer Tracey Pickwick Human Resource Officer Lisa Pigliafiori Hearing Health Coordinator

on the implementation of the recommendations for the Report such will work closely with the Health Information Team (HIT).

To ensure this project works effectively, the role is being realigned into the Policy and part of the HIT.

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

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KEEP BUBBA SAFE VACCINATE on time DUE ON:

DUE ON:

4 YEARS

BIRTH

3 needles

2 needles

2 MONTHS

18 MONTHS 4 needles

3 needles 1 medicine

DUE ON:

BUBBA’S NAME:

DUE ON:

N:

DUE O

4 MONTHS 3 needles 1 medicine

DU

EO

6 MONTHS+ Annual flu jab

N:

Keep on time with bubba’s vaccinations.

Register with your local Health Service for reminders.

6

6 MONTHS 3 needles

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

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:

DU

N EO

DU

E

ON :

12 MONTHS 4 needles

WITH

SANDY ROBERTSON WORKFORCE COORDINATOR, QAIHC

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Mandatory* Active Ingredient Prescribing

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Active Ingredient Prescribing commenced on 1 February 2021 to assist people to understand what medicines they are taking.

Under the new medicine regulations, doctors must include the active ingredient names when preparing prescriptions for Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation PBS (RPBS) medicines, and most medicines will be prescribed by their active ingredient and not the brand name.

Active Ingredient Prescribing is part of a wider government initiative to ensure consistent and standardised medicines information, to support safe and appropriate use of medicines.

What is an Active Ingredient?

The active ingredients are the chemical compounds in medicines that have an effect in the body. These are the chemicals in the medicine that make it work.

The consumers’ ability to identify a medicine’s active ingredient is critical for medicine safety.

Confusion surrounding the active ingredients in medicines poses significant risk to consumers, as consumers may only know their medicines by their brand name, and this could lead to them taking multiple doses if they are

prescribed two different brands of a medicine containing the same active ingredient.

When will Active Ingredient Prescribing begin?

The Department of Health has changed legislation to require the inclusion of active ingredients on all PBS and RPBS prescriptions from 1 February 2021, *except for: handwritten prescriptions; paper-based medication charts in the residential aged care sector medicinal items with four or more active ingredients other items excluded for safety or practicality reasons.

All eligible PBS and RPBS prescriptions will need to include the active ingredient, followed by brand if the prescriber believes it is clinically necessary.

Benefits of Active Ingredient Prescribing Consumers will be able to identify their medicine’s active ingredients which reduces the risk of people taking multiple doses of

medicines because they accidentally take different brands with the same active ingredient.

Consumers will be better informed about the medicines they are taking.

The changes are also likely to increase the uptake of generic and biosimilar medicines, leading to the reduction of out-of-pocket expenses for the consumer.

Active ingredient information will now appear on prescriptions, medicines packaging, pharmacy dispensing labels and in My Health Record Shared Summaries.

Prescribers can still prescribe a brand of medicine if they believe it is clinically necessary and can include brand names on prescriptions along with the active ingredient.

Consumers will still be able to choose the brand they want when they get their medicines from their pharmacy.

Additional Information: pbs.gov.au/info/general/active-ingredient-prescribing

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

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Wiyi Yani U Thangani Report

Securing our rights, securing our futures

On 14 December 2020, the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) Report was launched— an ambitious Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander female-led plan outlining the structural reforms necessary to provide our women and girls with equal enjoyment of human rights in this country.

the root causes of systemic inequality, highlight the alternatives needed to reconstruct enabling systems, and transform the relationship between Australian governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Long overdue, Wiyi Yani U Thangani represents the first time our women and girls’ voices have been heard as a collective since the publication of the Women’s Business Report in 1986.

The report highlights the powerful and diverse strengths that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls bring, benefiting not only women and girls but their entire communities and Australian society more broadly.

Wiyi Yani U Thangani also provides women and girls’ accounts of a broken system that perpetuates negative life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—a state of disadvantage overwhelmingly determined by structural forces stemming from colonisation.

One of the key inequalities identified by women and girls is that Australia’s high standard of health is not shared equally, an indicator of which is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples per capita burden of ill-health stands at 2.4 times the rate of that for non-Indigenous people.

Women and girls spoke about how their health is dependent on the interconnection of social, cultural and economic determinants. They identified governments’ failures to effectively respond to upstream factors, coupled with poor access and coverage of health services and a lack of cultural safety within health services as significant drivers of health inequality.

Women and girls consistantly described how the imposed systems—even those intended to provide support—are trapping them and their communities in cycles of intergenerational poverty, ill-health, trauma and powerlessness.

The report provides a comprehensive roadmap to confront this dynamic— including seven overarching structural reform recommendations to address

It recommends national action to eradicate racism and to embed truthtelling, cultural safety and traumainformed training across all services and sectors. It also calls for increased investment into preventative, placebased, culturally responsive programs and services—such as those delivered

by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations—that will help us to heal from intergenerational trauma and sustain and revive our knowledge systems, Lore and languages.

Furthermore, Wiyi Yani U Thangani is calling for measures to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls’ leadership and participation in all decisions that impact their lives. This includes the establishment of a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls National Action Plan, a women and girls advisory body to design and monitor the implementation of the National Action Plan, and targets for our women and girls to lead across all sectors.

The Wiyi Yani U Thangani report puts the lives and truths of our women and girls in the hands of all Australians, and asks that you listen to their stories, recognise their strengths, their power and their potential, and join with them in creating a system that will enable all Australians to thrive.

Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar © Wayne Quilliam for Australian Human Rights Commission Artwork: Elaine Chambers in collaboration with Riki Salam

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To read the report visit wiyiyaniuthangani.humanrights.gov.au

YOUTH HEALTH NETWORK

INTRODUCING

Taylor Moxham QAIHC Youth Health Network member

How old are you? 25

Who inspires you?

I have a few people that inspire me but two people in particular come to mind: my high school mentors— Ray Eather and Elizabeth Keys.

Who’s your mob?

Darkinjung—Central Coast, NSW

The QAIHC Youth Health Network provides an opportunity for young people to come together and yarn about health and develop solutions for their health and wellbeing.

Where do you work?

I commenced with the North Coast Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health (NCACCH) Administration team in April 2019. Due to my skills in IT and Communications, a role was created for me in December of the same year. Since then I have been the ICT Officer and am responsible for all of our IT maintenance and support.

NCACCH is a not-for-profit Community Controlled Organisation, providing access to a broad range of preventative health measures and chronic disease management for the Sunshine Coast and Gympie region.

Why is it essential that youth are involved in discussions about their own health?

I know my health and needs better than anyone else, and that is the same for all youth out there. If we aren’t asked, listened to, respected; how can we close the gap in health outcomes for our mob!?

Ray was the Indigenous Learning Support Officer and Elizabeth was a PE Teacher at my high school. Both helped me through some hard times of bullying and learning barriers.

Ray and Elizabeth gave me a deeper cultural understanding and purpose. If it wasn’t for these two beautiful people, I wouldn’t have my cultural connection/identity.

Why is the Youth Health Network important?

For me, the Youth Health Network is important because it gives our youth—our future leaders—a voice and a platform to stand for what we need to improve our health as individuals but also as a community; creating measurable targets and holding our health department/ partners accountable.

If we want to close the gap, we need to listen to our leaders present but especially to those emerging.

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Advocating for Health Equity Following the passing of the Health Legislation Amendment Act 2020 (the Act) in August 2020, amendments were made to the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 requiring Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) to develop and implement Health Equity Strategies.

A subsequent piece of legislation, the Hospital and Health Boards (Health Equity Strategies) Amendment Regulation 2021 (the Regulation) is due to be considered by the Executive Council (Cabinet) soon.

According to the Act, the Regulation will define who must be involved in the development and implementation of a Health Equity Strategy (prescribed persons), and the way in which they must be consulted.

Consultation workshops have commenced across the state, and will continue into June. The aim of these workshops is to understand the types of support required for Health Equity Strategies (HES) to be successful. The vision is that HHSs will co-design, co-own and co-implement HESs with their local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisation (ATISCCHO) and other partners. What the journey looks like in practice will be influenced by these consultations and the legal requirements that will be outlined in the Regulation.

Members should have received a copy of the Health Equity Discussion Paper which outlines the context

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Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

Making Tracks

towards health equity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—working together to achieve life expectancy parity by 2031 Discussion paper: a shared conversation

for health reform, the content of the Health Regulation and longterm reform opportunities.

determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development”.1 Similarly, according to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, “Indigenous peoples have the right to determine and develop priorities and strategies for exercising their right to development. In particular, Indigenous peoples have the right to be actively involved in developing and determining health, housing and other economic and social programmes affecting them and, as far as possible, to administer such programmes through their own institutions”.2

The following principles are consistently raised by Members and QAIHC is advocating that they must underpin the health equity agenda:

Partnerships and co-design

The term ‘co-design’ reflects shared decision-making authority through genuine partnerships.

Partnerships require the sharing of decision-making, power, control, resources, responsibility and accountability. In partnerships, trust is built and there is an agreed and shared purpose, vision and intent in working together in a supportive and transparent way. Partners design and review outcomes together and problem solve solutions. In other words, strategies must include co-design, co-development, co-implementation and coevaluation with Queensland Health, Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) and ATSICCHOs, which are formalised through agreements.

Self-determination

Self-determination is a principle preserved in international law.

According to law, all peoples have the right of self-determination and “by virtue of that right they freely

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For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, the right to self-determination has, and continues to be, of fundamental importance in improving health and wellbeing outcomes.3

Community-driven solutions

When Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples take charge of developing their own strategies, they better reflect their interests, values, vision and concerns, increasing ownership and accountability.4 A communitydriven approach to health policies and programs is the true reflection of self-determination

in health, which will significantly contribute to reducing disparity in health outcomes experienced

by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Upholding a self-determined approach to health provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with complete control of the design and the provision of programs and initiatives appropriate to meet their community needs.

Place-based solutions

Place-based approaches empower community to participate, lead and own the initiatives that are important to meet their community needs. The approach is also helpful to break down fear and stigma by engaging community, family and children in their own environment to take charge of their own health and wellbeing.

QAIHC’s Members, the ATSICCHOs, exemplify the important role place-based approaches have in improving overall health outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and are best positioned to facilitate the process at the local level. Recognising the

different needs of people through place-based solutions creates better results.

We hope that this co-designed process helps mainstream services and public organisations to understand the value and importance of self determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and that practical, realistic steps can be defined for achieving health equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland.

Holistic concept of health

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concept of health is holistic, incorporating the physical, social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing of individuals and their whole communities. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, health is seen in terms of the whole-life-view.5

ATSICCHO Model of Care

and cultural safety, community engagement and development

1 Article 1, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 1, International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), The United Nations General Assembly, (adopted 1966).

Article 23, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, 2007, The United Nations General Assembly (adopted 2007).

2

The ATSICCHO Model of Care6, developed with respect and understanding of local historical context and cultural values, ensures that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel culturally safe and free from institutional racism when presenting for holistic and comprehensive quality primary health care.

Odette Mazel, Self-Determination and the Right to Health: Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, Human Rights Law Review, Volume 16, Issue 2, June 2016, Pages 323–355.

3

4 Behrendt L, Jorgenson M, Vivian A, Self-Determination: Background Concepts, 2005, accessed 26/12/20, https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/about/publications/ ResearchAndReports/self-determination-backgroundconcepts 5 National Aboriginal Health Strategy (NAHS) 1989, page 9. https://web.archive.org/ web/20050315064629/http:/ www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/Publishing.nsf/ Content/health-oatsih-pubs-healthstrategy.htm

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council, Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations’ Model of Care, 2019, p4, https://www.qaihc.com.au/media/37570/ modelofcare_19082019_hr.pdf (accessed 18/2/21).

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Angus Maguire (2016) Source: www.storybasedstrategy.org

The differences between equality and equity In the first image, it is assumed everyone will benefit from the same supports.

They are being treated equally.

In the second image, individuals are given different supports to make it possible for them to have equal access to the game.

They are being treated equitably.

In the third image, the cause of inequity was addressed and all three see the game without any supports or accommodations.

The systemic barrier has been removed.

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

April/May 2021

11

Vax facts What we know

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), have provisionally approved the Pfizer and Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines for use in Australia. In March 2021, This means that the vaccines can be legally supplied, and safety and efficacy data will be collected during the next two years. Australia was set to receive ten million doses of the Pfizer vaccination and 3.6 million doses of AstraZeneca; most Australians are expected to receive the AstraZeneca doses, with onshore manufacturing of a further 50 million doses expected to commence sometime in the middle of 2021. In April 2021, TGA recommendations changed, requiring adults under the age of 50 years to receive the Pfizer vaccine and not the AstraZeneca vaccine.

In addition to these two vaccines, a handful of others will also pass through the TGA for review and possible approval; further assisting the efforts to vaccinate Australia’s population.

information about reported side effects, as well as other safety alerts as required.

When can I get the vaccine?

Roll out for the vaccination commenced in late February 2021, starting with priority groups and will take approximately six to twelve months. The majority of ATSICCHOs commenced AstraZeneca vaccination clinics in March 2021.

The Commonwealth Government have identified priority groups for vaccine rollout in three phases:

Phase 1a – quarantine/border workers – frontline health care worker sub-groups for prioritisation

– aged care and disability staff – aged care and disability residents

Phase 1b – elderly adults aged 70 years and over

– other health care workers – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over 55 years

– younger adults with an underlying medical condition, including those with a disability

Are the vaccines safe?

In Australia, the TGA assesses the safety, quality and effectiveness of all vaccines, medicines and more prior to use—it is one of the most thorough in the world.

All vaccines continue to be monitored for safety after they are registered for use in Australia so the TGA can detect and respond to any safety concerns if they arise.

The TGA publish a weekly safety report specifically for COVID-19 vaccinations which includes

12

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve quickly—with chatter about vaccinations, it is important to lay the foundations on what it all means for Queensland ATISCCHOs.

– critical and high-risk workers including defence, police, fire emergency services and meat processing

Phase 2a – adults aged 50–69 years – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 18–54 years

– other critical and high-risk

| April/May 2021

workers

Phase 2b – balance of adult population – catch up unvaccinated people from previous phases

Phase 3 – under 16s if recommended.

From May 2021, in response to the TGA Guideline changes, anyone over the age of 50 can approach their provider to be vaccinated.

Roll-out logistics

QAIHC and the Sector are actively involved in several Working Groups that have been established to inform the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. QAIHC continue to advocate for ATSICCHOs to have access to appropriate vaccines for respective age groups and for suitable public communication materials.

QAIHC will continue to inform Members through ongoing communications. Please email communications@qaihc.com. au to be included in these comminications. For vaccine related questions, please email QAIHC’s Immunisation Coordinator, Azalia.martell@qaihc.com.au.

There are several resources available online by Queensland Health and the Commonwealth Department of Health:

qld.gov.au/health/conditions/ health-alerts/coronaviruscovid-19/protect-yourselfothers/covid-19-vaccine

health.gov.au/initiatives-andprograms/covid-19-vaccines

Feeling unwell? Get tested.

Swab for mob to keep community COVID-safe Contact your local health service: HEALTH SERVICE

PHONE

or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

13

QAIHC welcomes the Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN) and fellow members of the eHealth Research Collaboration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (eHRCATSH) to our Brisbane office!

QAIHC CEO, James William welcomed representatives from both groups to a cardiovascular research workshop on 29 January 2021, which was made possible through a grant from the Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN).

Co-chairs of the QCVRN, Professor John Fraser and Dr Nathan Palpant, were in attendance and the eHRCATSH were able to discuss research priorities and activities of each member organisation.

The workshop aimed to explore the potential of eHealth to support cardiovascular health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. QAIHC extends a warm thank you to all participants and looks forward to further collaboration in the future.

What is eHealth? eHealth refers to the delivery of health using information and communication technologies.

Consumers can connect to their health professionals via mobile health platforms (mHealth), websites, patient portals, telehealth, videoconferencing, or remote monitoring. eHealth can address some issues associated with health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples including; reducing the need to travel, time away from Country and family, costs associated with accessing health care, and increasing the range of services provided by ATSICCHOs. eHealth interventions can also increase family involvement in health care and have been adopted by First Nations peoples globally.

eHealth Research Collaboration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (eHRCATSH)

Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN)

The eHRCATSH was established in 2019 and is a partnership between CSIRO’s Australian eHealth Research Centre (AEHRC) and QAIHC; with collaborators from eHealth Queensland, Queensland Health, The University of Queensland (UQ) Centre for Online Health and Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Established in 2015 with the remit of strengthening cardiovascular research in Queensland, the QCVRN is committed to fostering multidisciplinary collaborations and building research capacity to attract new funding for Queensland cardiovascular research. Co-chairs Professor John Fraser and Dr. Nathan Palpant lead a multidisciplinary steering group made up of researchers from varying research institutions including universities, tertiary hospitals, and the National Heart Foundation.

The QCVRN wants to help cardiovascular researchers connect with each other and develop broader awareness of research activities happening across Queensland.

The eHRCATSH is focused on establishing an evidence base for technology in health care specific to the interests and needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For more information visit confluence.csiro.au/display/ ERCFATSIH/eHealth+Research+Collaboration+for+ Aboriginal+and+Torres+Strait+Islander+Health

14

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

For more information visit heartfoundation.org.au/ research/queensland-cvrn

DATA ROOM

Oral Health

Oral health refers to the condition of a person’s teeth and gums, as well as the health of the muscles and bones in their mouth. Dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontitis (gum disease) are the most common chronic diseases in Australia¹

Oral health is connected to overall health

Fluoridated water Approximately compared with

75%

50%

Tooth loss of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have no access;

of the total Queensland population who do have access³

Water fluoridation is effective in reducing dental caries4

Prevention

81% 45%

Dental caries and periodontal disease have been identified as risk factors for many chronic conditions, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and head and neck cancers 1

once twice daily daily

What contributes to poor oral health?²

Daily teeth brushing amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders between 2018–20194

Lack of regular dental check-ups

Lack of fluoridation in some water supplies KEY:

Lack of oral hygiene

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

one tooth

Reported tooth loss for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (over the age of 15)4

12%

50%

Last 12 months

Never

In 2017–2018, about 72,000 hospitalisations for dental conditions may have been prevented with earlier treatment5

Impact on quality of life6

1.5X more likely to report avoiding foods

­1.8X more likely to

experience toothache

Poor access and/or availability of services

total teeth loss

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adult dental visits5

Compared with non-Indigenous people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are: Consumption of sugar, alcohol and tobacco

45%

6%

1.3

X more likely to report being uncomfortable about their dental appearance

Non-Indigenous

Tooth decay

26%

40%

Non-Indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children (aged 5–10 years) have a higher prevalence of untreated dental decay in their baby teeth7 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (aged 55–74 years) have a higher prevalence (72.8%) of untreated decay than non-Indigenous people of the same age (31.6%)6

Optimal oral health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland QAIHC’s Report: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Oral Health in Queensland showcased Queensland’s ATSICCHO’s oral health care services which are integrated within their Models of Care.

with Hospital and Health Services to include

The Report demonstrated the value of embedding oral health services within ATSICCHOs, which can include greater community uptake through overcoming access barriers resulting in improved oral health community outcomes. The inclusion of oral health services was also shown to support early detection of preventable chronic disease and had a direct and positive impact on the level of periodontal disease.

QAIHC continues to advocate for regional network funding agreements

address the evidence need for oral health

References page 29

oral health funding, and for Australian Governments to work with QAIHC to identifyHighlig policy and funding solutions that will

For more information, visit

and

Oral Health Care in Queenslan d

Health promotio n is at the During the core of our year we work health promotion participated in a activities including number of we gave away NAIDOC where toothbrushes, health informatio toothpaste and oral n. Our dental worked with assistants the also health promotionMurri School focussing on oral activities with their families. the students and

Expandin g our service Funding was approved Woolloong HEALTHY for the extension abba dental LIFESTYLE of our lab and This work willPROGRAMS Other areas BUILDINGan additional in the community be complete Lifestyle STRONG surgery.

Program is involved where the Healthy CONNECTIO d by the end are: Ensuring NS of •2016.

Goondir is continuing Playgroup our staff are – provides support Working with to improve and wellbeing parents, carers skilled for Indigenous ensure our of the St. George the health and families To our commun communities to Allied Health along with and Oakey dental staff access through the providers who During the Program. ity Healthy playgroup for attend the year program continues Lifestyle our commun with key informationattended weThewith Infection Control are up-to-date all staff partnerships childhood formed about early to build strong ity development partnerships local a number key stakeholders especially Training, schools, playgroups, such as the of key year olds. for 0 -5 including: CPR and completeUpdate Radiation Indigenous Recreation officer, placemen Safety University Sport • Community d the First Health ProfessionalsQueensland Police, ts and of Queensla walking groupsHygiene Australia Allied of 5th year a safe environment Aid and Hand and Mens, Womens – providing Module. Other dental students, placemen local Elders groups.nd for participants and participate in World to ts The forhealthy Congress physical activity. courses included: vocationa Certificate in Dental Traumato Lifestyle Program l • School students from IIIinin Dental Assisting holiday Oral re-established St George the Southban has cooking programsactivities – conductingSurgery, Dental logy, Practical them with activitieslocalkElders Group to assist TAFE on denture 60+ Assistant’s and worked Traditional Games toand physicalAnalgesia such as activity participating andgames Conferenc educate as well through /Nitrous as well as planning crown in the with the kidsIUIH e and active during & bridge referrals sites, providing as keep Oxide Training. student placemen the school holidays. to cultural ongoing health day trips assisting with • After school education and and t. healthy lifestyle dental activities – assisting cooking choices afterschool

improvements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland.

Aboriginal

Torres Strait hts of our wor k this year... Islander

Increase in patient visits and We saw a denture work 6% increase in patient 2014-15 to visits from 6,799 this 6,406 in year. There increase in was also 24% denture/la b work from previous year 377 in the to some orthodont 469. We also started undertakin ic cases. g

and physical

activity.

such as

with activities by conducting programs and cooking a through a varietyvariety of physical activities of different sports.

Our work in action...

Over the school swimming in the holidays, while are bound to pool, accidents happen cracked his tooth. ! Vernon he couldn’t smile He thought Big shout out again! to Woolloongabba the Dental Clinic.

Now Adelaide

he can’t stop

Saylor, Mum

smiling.

33

Child Wellbeing

IN

2017-2018 the Child Team has continued Wellbeing to provide high quality service delivery to families across the region, keeping children healthy, happy safe, and thriving.

This year has been a very successful and rewarding time for the Child Wellbeing Team in particular with the Culturally Appropriate Foster and Kinship Care Service.

2017-18 we In have seen a significant increase in the number of expressions interest from of people in the community to become carers, following a targeted marketing and advertising campaign.

The program has been re-licensed February 2021, until folllowing our success with our community.

qaihc.com.au/media/37576/0069-qaihcoral-health-care-in-queensland_v10_f.pdf

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are 8.5 times more likely to be placed in out of home care than nonIndigenous children, and 43.5 % of our children are not placed with kin or Indigenous other carers when placed in out of home care.

Our Recognised team has continued Entity to work towards ensuring our children are placed with immediately kin or as soon as practical when our families are subject to departmental involvement.

In 2017-18, our Recognised Entity was able to link in with the newly established Legal Health Check Clinic site to engage on clients involved with child safety matters, as many families represented are not or supported through process from a legal perspective. this

2017/2018

Our Work,

Our Year

ANNUAL

REPORT

023

13

| April/May 2021

15

RESEARCH

WITH

ANNA SHEAHAN, DATA OFFICER AND TIANA LEA, EVENT COORDINATOR, QAIHC

Let’s talk about healthy sex GOANNA Survey 2 To address the high rates of sexual infection in our young mob, the GOANNA Survey was completed to find out views and knowledge of young people in our community.

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and blood borne viruses (BBVs) disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly those living in rural and remote areas. Proposed reasons for these sexual health inequalities include individual behavioural factors such as condom use and community factors including socioeconomic disadvantage and health service availability and accessibility.1

16

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

One strategy to address these higher rates is the Young Deadly Free initiative run by the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI). Young Deadly Free engages with community to increase sexual health awareness by improving knowledge of STIs and BBVs and addressing stigma associated with sex, sexuality and drug and alcohol use.

GOANNA Survey 2 The GOANNA Survey 2 aimed to explore patterns in knowledge, behaviours and health service access related to sexual health in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young peoples (16 to 29) and illustrate any changes compared with the GOANNA Survey 1 conducted across Australia in 2011–2013.

A pivotal component of the GOANNA Survey 2 was that in addition to sexual health, other related aspects such as internet dating, HIV treatment and drug behaviours were also explored. This information is integral to understanding the behaviours and trends of young people in order to design and implement effective health promotion, prevention, treatment, and care related to STIs and BBVs.

| April/May 2021

The study was granted ethical approval by the Flinders University Social and Behavioural Research Ethics Committee (OH-00144) and the relevant Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) in each jurisdiction where applicable.

QAIHC partnered with SAHMRI in 2018 to facilitate the GOANNA Survey 2 implementation. The project used an action based, capacity building approach by training coordinators across Australia.2 Tiana Lea (Event Coordinator, QAIHC) and Anna Sheahan (Data Officer, QAIHC) were engaged as Survey Coordinators to manage the Queensland survey delivery. Tiana and Anna received sexual health education and were trained in ethical research and methodology including survey collection processes. Tiana and Anna then coordinated the delivery of training and capacity building for 13 survey collectors.

Based on the original GOANNA survey, the questionnaire assessed four broad domains: 1. demographics 2. knowledge of STIs and BBVs

3. relationships and behaviours related to STI/BBV risk (including alcohol and other drug use) 4. health service access for STI/ BBV testing, treatment, advice and support.

To maximise participation, stalls with health promotion material were run at local sporting and cultural events: NAIDOC Musgrave Park Brisbane (July 2018 and July 2019) Murri Rugby League Carnival in Townsville and Cherbourg (October 2018 and April 2019).

Survey collectors invited people at the events to participate.

Eligible participants (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged between 16 and 29 years) were then advised of the purpose and content of the survey before being given the option to provide informed consent and complete the survey anonymously on a hand-held device.

The deadly work of the survey collectors saw 267 surveys collected; the second highest number of surveys collected across Australia.

Results Overall, the survey included 1,343 participants aged 16-29 years from urban, regional, and remote parts of mainland Australia. Findings provided a snapshot of the sexual health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young peoples.

Key national findings3 included: 1 in 5 people (18 per cent) identified as LGBTQI. Sexual risks included decreased condom use during last sexual intercourse (40 per cent compared with 54 per cent in Survey 1 [2011– 2013]) and sex while drunk or high (1 in 4 people or 27 per cent).

References page 29

70 per cent of respondents who were sexually active reported being tested previously for an STI; with 52 per cent having been tested in the previous year.

Of participants who had received a full health check in the last year (n=812) only 61 per cent were offered an STI check as part of that full health check.

Most people went to an Aboriginal Medical Service (50 per cent) or GP (39 per cent) for STI testing.

Almost half (46 per cent) of all participants felt high or very high psychological distress in the past 4 weeks (based on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale).

Positive feelings of wellbeing were reported ‘all or most of the time’ by 40–50 per cent of respondents (calm and peaceful 40 per cent, happy person 52 per cent, full of life 43 per cent, having lots of energy 39 per cent).

Queensland data indicated a similar pattern to the national findings.

Key Queensland GOANNA findings (n=267) included:4

Almost 1 in 4 (23 per cent) identified as LGBTQI.

Most people went to an Aboriginal

Medical Service (53 per cent) or GP (36 per cent) for STI testing.

41 per cent of participants felt high

or very high psychological distress in the past 4 weeks (based on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale).

Positive feelings of wellbeing were

reported ‘all or most of the time’ by 40–60 per of respondents (calm and peaceful 44 per cent, happy person 56 per cent, full of life 45 per cent, having lots of energy 41 per cent).

Outcomes The results will undergo formal analysis to be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Reports have been disseminated to Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and affiliates, state and national government departments and other organisations working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young peoples.

GOANNA is an established program of behavioural surveillance to inform policy development and health promotion initiatives on an ongoing basis. The potential to move some or all components of the survey to an online format may assist in future implementation and allow for more frequent updates.

Acknowledgement

Sexual risks included less than

half (41 per cent) of participants reporting condom use during their last sexual intercourse and sex while drunk or high (1 in 4 or 26 per cent).

74 per cent of respondents who

were sexually active reported being tested previously for an STI; with 54 per cent of having been tested in the previous year.

Of participants who had received

a full health check in the last year (n=192) only 59 per cent were offered a STI check as part of that full health check.

QAIHC and SAHMRI would like to extend a big thank you to our 13 survey collectors for their involvement in the project. We would also like to sincerely thank all those who participated. Lastly, a special thank you to TAIHS and CRAICCHS for their involvement in GOANNA Survey 2.

For further information

Contact Anna Sheahan by phone 07 3328 8500 or email anna. sheahan@qaihc.com.au. Download the full GOANNA Survey 2 report at youngdeadlyfree.org.au/goanna2/

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

17

CQI

WITH

LAUREN TRASK WORKFORCE COORDINATOR, CQI, QAIHC

Using data for purposes of CQI Data can support the organisation to realise better health outcomes, inform organisational priorities, improve systems, plan, and implement the change within your organisation; driving a culture of quality and safety that reflects the needs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The use of data supports a culture of improvement to deliver high-quality healthcare with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, families, and communities.

Data collection is crucial because it gives you a bird’seye-view of what has been happening in your ATSICCHO. Using the appropriate data sets will help identify the service’s strengths and weaknesses and how to improve on them. It is important that data quality and management processes are in place so that there is a reliable foundation for quality improvement activities.

Quality Improvement

Depending on the measure, data can be collected from various sources, including medical records, patient surveys, and administrative databases used to pay bills or to manage excellent quality care.

When we systematically review the data, document the process, and identify opportunities for improvements, we are contributing to the delivery of higher quality care that meets our people's needs. At the same time, it provides you with evidence which demonstrates improvements that can then be communicated with community and other stakeholders. A good CQI process is as follows:

1 Document the client treatment/care pathway, including Data pushes

quality improvement by helping to identify and analyse problems

Data pulls

quality improvement by helping to identify and analyse opportunities

each step in that journey (including data entry points, health promotion or education opportunities, health literacy and awareness).

2 Document the steps/points where improvements can be made to the delivery of care.

A comprehensive data set available to members will provide clearer indication of priorities for resource allocation, resource/ funding/service shortage or gaps, and will allow members to stratify the data according to their needs. We need to adapt our systems and software to measure what matters, not the other way around.

Bevan Ah Kee, General Manager, QAIHC

18

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

3 Identify, with your team, what type of improvements can be made.

4 Source the resources required for improvements to be made.

6 Document, check the data and track the improvements.

7 Ensure there is adequate time, responsibility and oversight assigned for improvements to provide quality care.

8 Report the outcomes of improvements implemented.

ATSICCHOs understand the importance of using data to enhance health outcomes, plan and implement services and drive a service culture of quality and safety. As a sector, we are continuously innovating and improving systems, achieving efficient and effective delivery of health care with a focus on comprehensive primary care, our way.

If you have any questions about CQI please contact Lauren Trask at ltrask@qaihc.com.au or call 0411 609 157.

Health Information Team HIT have skilled Data Analysts to support your clinic’s priorities:

Using CAT4 to identify patients eligible for COVID-19 Vaccinations Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine national roll-out strategy was announced by the Australian Government and commenced in late February 2021.1 This strategy outlined the three phases; with the first phase targeting key at risk groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged over 55 years, frontline healthcare workers, quarantine and border workers, aged and disability care residents and younger adults with an underlying medical condition (including those with disability). In April 2021, the categories were changed so anyone aged over 50 years could receive a vaccine.

CAT4 and Topbar are useful tools in managing the delivery of vaccines including the COVID-19 vaccine. Member Services can identify and recall a group of patients eligible for immunisation by using the reports and filters in CAT4.

To identify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples over the age of 50: open the Filters tab in CAT4 and select: ­– Active patients ­– Age: Start age 50 and no end age ­– Ethnicity: Indigenous (which includes Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) select ‘Recalculate’ select ‘All’ select ‘Export’ to produce the report.

The generated report will provide a list of the eligible patients in your Service (in the category Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders over the age of 50 years). You can then send a recall SMS or Voicemail to those eligible patients included in your exported report or create a Topbar prompt for a COVID-19 vaccination eligible group.

There are several CAT4 recipes available relating to COVID-19; these can be found at help.pencs.com.au/ display/CR/CAT+RECIPES

Report Redesign Working Group update Four Report Redesign Working Group (RRWG) meetings were held in 2020, concluding in December. Health Information Team (HIT) thanks all RRWG Members for their valuable time and contributions and look forward to continued engagement in 2021.

Feedback on the content, frequency and format of the new reporting suite will inform the development of a project plan to drive the build, design, and feedback cycle of the reporting suite within 2021.

For more information or suggestions on the RRWG, please contact HIT@qaihc.com.au

World Kidney Day March was National Kidney Month for 2021. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to kidney conditions, lasting at least three months, affecting filtration and removal of waste from blood, and/or leakages of protein or albumin in urine.

Between 2014 and 2018, the incidence rate of treated end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) was 39 per 100,000 among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.2 GP management plans (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCA) allow GPs to coordinate the healthcare of patients with chronic or terminal medical conditions; including patients with CKD, who require multidisciplinary care from a GP and at least two other health or care providers.

CAT4 recipes can be used to identify patients with chronic conditions such as CKD, who have never had a GPMP/ TCA claimed. There has also be a recent update to the indication for CKD, which has been changed to include patients with an eGFR<60.

Contact details For all Helpdesk and general HIT enquiries, please contact the team by email HIT@qaihc.com.au or telephone on 3328 8500

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

19

Conducting research, the right way Renewed AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) undertook a review of the Guidelines for Ethical Research in Australian Indigenous Studies 2012 (GERAIS) in honour of its 20-year anniversary in 2019. Following national consultation, AIATSIS published renewed guidelines titled the AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research (the AIATSIS Code of Ethics), in October 2020.* Warning: Aboriginal Strait guidance Islander readers shouldCentral be aware that thisof the to the principles Additional regarding ethical The AIATSIS Code of Ethics¹and Torres

AIATSIS Code of who Ethics have is the conduct and engagement with or names document may contain sensitive information, images of people retained several principles of the core ethical value of integrity.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander original GERAIS, within a renewed since passed away.

Here, integrity extends beyond peoples is provided in the Ethical framework. The revised guidelines adherence to the compliance conduct in research with Aboriginal re-emphasise the accountability of obligations of funding and and Torres Strait Islander People researchers undertaking research research agencies and bodies, and communities: Guidelines for that concerns or impacts Aboriginal and includes critical reflection and Torres Strait Islander peoples. researchers and stakeholders of the integrity and values (2018)⁴; and, Keeping research on held by individual researchers Australian framework for track II (2018).⁵ and institutions. The AIATSIS ethical and responsible Code of Ethics demarcates key Australian Code for research Responsible Conduct of responsibilities for conducting Research (2018) research with Aboriginal and In Australia, there are several Torres Strait Islander peoples ethics frameworks and guidelines for each principle (see Figure 2). which set national obligations and National Statement on The onus of these responsibilities Ethical Conduct in Human standards for ethical conduct of Research (updated 2018) for researchers is clearly and research, including the Australian pragmatically outlined in A Guide Code for the Responsible Conduct of to applying the AIATSIS Code of AIATSIS Code of Ethics Research² and National Statement for Aboriginal and Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres on Ethical Conduct in Human Torres Strait Islander Strait Islander Research.⁶ Research.³ The AIATSIS Code of Ethics is an integral part of this broader Australian framework (see Figure 1) and articulates additional requirements for ethical and responsible conduct of research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Researchers should read the AIATSIS Code of Ethics in conjunction with these documents along with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples 2007.

Research (2020)

Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Communities: Guidelines for researchers and stakeholders (2018) Keeping research on track II (2018)

Figure 1 Australian framework for ethical and responsible research

To view and download the AIATSIS Code of Ethics, visit aiatsis. gov.au/research/ethical-research QAIHC’s Research and Evidence Team are committed to supporting ethical research and all research undertaken by QAIHC is underpinned by several ethical frameworks and guidelines including the AIATSIS Code of Ethics.

*The AIATSIS Code of Ethics supersedes and replaces the Guidelines for Ethical Research in Australian Indigenous Studies 2012 (GERAIS). Remaining references page 29

20

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

| April/May 2021

RESEARCH

WITH

DR REBECCA SOOLE A/MANAGER, RESEARCH AND EVIDENCE, QAIHC

The AIATSIS Code of Ethics is comprised of four key principles to ensure research is of benefit to, and led by, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through application of the AIATSIS Code of Ethics a process of meaningful engagement and respectful of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge which represents a reciprocal relationship between the researcher and the individuals and/ or communities involved in which the research is facilitated.

THE PRINCIPLES 1 Indigenous self-determination

scihtE fo edoC SISTAIA serroT dna lanigirobA rof hcraeseR rednalsI tiartS

When do the AIATSIS Code of Ethics apply?

Research that affects or is of particular significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples requires demonstration of meaningful engagement and respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s legal rights and interests and local laws, customs, and protocols.

Research is broadly defined as the creation of new knowledge and/or the use of existing knowledge in a new and creative way to generate new concepts, siht tmethodologies, aht erawa eand b dunderstandings. luohs sredaeThe r reAIATSIS dnalsCode I tiartS serroT2 dnIndigenous a lanigirobA :gninraW leadership of Ethics applies to any research impacting, or likely to be significant evah ohw elpoep fo seman ro segami ,noitamrofni evitisResearch nes niaistnconsidered oc yam tIndigenousnemucod to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and includes human .yawa dand essTorres ap ecnis led when Aboriginal research, archival research, re-use of data, formal evaluation, and Strait Islander peoples have genuine other research activities. In applying the AIATSIS Code of Ethics a decision-making and co-design roles precautionary approach is advocated; and guidance from an ethics in every step of the research committee with specific expertise is encouraged. process; from the design and conduct of the research, ownership of data, interpretation of data, and RESPONSIBILITIES the reporting and publication of findings from research.

Recognition and respect Indigenous led research

Engagement and collaboration

Indigenous perspectives and participation

Informed consent Cultural capability and learning

Indigenous self-determination

Indigenous leadership

INTEGRITY Sustainability and accountability

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities have the right to define benefits according to their own values and priorities and may place greater or lesser value on the various returns than researchers and others do.

RESPONSIBILITIES

RESPONSIBILITIES

3 Impact and value

Indigenous knowledge and data

Impact and value

4 Sustainability and accountability Research is designed and conducted in a way that meets both present and future need as defined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Indigenous lands and waters Benefit and reciprocity

Ongoing Indigenous governance

Impact and risk

Reporting and compliance

For further information, email the Research and Evidence Team at research@qaihc.com.au or call 07 3328 8500.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Figure 2 AIATSIS Code of Ethics

Artist acknowledgement: Leah Brideson, Warranggal Baynyi (‘strong ripple’ in Gamilaraay language)

Sector Leader M A G A Z I N E AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

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Productivity Commission’s Mental Health Inquiry Report:

Looking from the ATSICCHO Sector lens The Productivity Commission (the Commission) has released a landmark mental health inquiry report on its findings of how to address the wideranging issues and gaps in Australia’s current mental health system.1 The Report, which is over 1600 pages, has documented longstanding problems within the system, including: dysfunctional approaches to the funding of services; a lack of clarity between governments about their roles leading to "persistent wasteful overlaps and yawning gaps in service provision"; under-investment in prevention and early intervention, tackling stigma and eliminating discrimination; and a disproportionate focus on clinical services.

3 Improve people’s experience with services beyond

The Commission’s recommendations extend beyond just the health system and into sectors that are important for an individual’s social and emotional wellbeing and recovery, for example schools, workplaces, housing, employment and justice (pages 63–83).

4 Increase people’s participation in further education

The Report presents a long-term plan to improve the mental health system in Australia. The reform agenda seeks to shape a person-centred, but flexible, mental health system by making changes under the following five areas:

1 Prevention and early help for people: Supporting

people to improve mental health outcomes and reduce the need for future clinical intervention, by tackling early mental health problems and suicide risks. Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to prevent suicide attempts, provide follow up care for people after suicide attempts, and develop a national stigma reduction strategy.

2 Improve people’s experiences with mental healthcare:

Ensuring the care received is person-centred, timely, consistent with treatment needs and does not impose undue burden on consumers or carers.

the health system: Recognising numerous gateways through which people enter the mental health system

and a range of services beyond healthcare (specific to psychosocial services, housing and justice), that are important for an individual’s social and emotional wellbeing and recovery. This includes a commitment to not discharge from care into homelessness and to better support people with mental illness to recover and live well in the community. and work: Supporting people to remain engaged in education and employment; reforms are designed to support and enable people to reach their potential, to have purpose and meaning, and to contribute to the lives of others.

5 Instil incentives and accountability for improved

outcomes: Reforming the behind-the-scenes

arrangements and incentives to ensure services areas seamless, connected, and timely as possible.

6 The report has quoted QAIHC, NACCHO and

other affiliate and ATSICCHO responses; and has incorporated actions that are specific to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ mental health outcomes. These include:²

Designating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ATSICCOs) as preferred providers of mental health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (action 23.6).

1. Australian Government, Productivity Commission (2020). Mental Health Inquiry Report. pc.gov.au/inquiries/completed/mental-health/report/mental-health.pdf 2. Australian Government, Productivity Commission (2020). Mental Health Inquiry Report. Mental Health Factsheet: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. pc.gov.au/ inquiries/completed/mental-health/report/factsheets/mental-health-factsheet-atsi.pdf

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Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

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POLICY

WITH

GOVIND OJHA, SENIOR POLICY OFFICER, QAIHC

Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to prevent suicide though selfdetermination and local leadership by:

• implementing a renewed Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander-led “National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Strategy and Implementation Plan” to guide suicide prevention in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities (action 9.2)

• ensuring ATSICCOs are the preferred providers of

suicide prevention activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (action 9.2)

• providing culturally capable aftercare to anyone

who presents to a hospital, GP or community mental health service following a suicide attempt (action 9.1).

Undertaking an evaluation of programs that use traditional healers, in partnership with conventional mental health services (action 8.3).

Expediting and resourcing the development of an implementation plan for the National Strategic Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Mental Health and Social and Emotional Wellbeing 2017–2023. Determining that development of this plan should be led by Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia (action 22.2).

Engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in discussions to develop any targets for key mental health and suicide prevention outcomes that may affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (action 24.4), including targets to reduce the gap in life expectancy between people with severe mental illness and the general population (action 14.1).

The Commission has also recommended a regional governance approach that incorporates elements of both the ‘re-build’ and ‘renovate’ funding models proposed in the draft report. The recommended approach is for Primary Health Networks (PHNs) and Local Hospital Networks (LHNs) to be given another opportunity to work together to deliver regional planning. If they fail, the Commission then recommends state and territory governments impose a new regional commissioning model under their own legislation, with pooling of PHNcommissioned funds, state and territory community funding, and psychosocial support funding (outside of the NDIS) for that region, with regional planning to incorporate

the provision of services from (un-pooled) Medicare and hospital funding (pages 1148–1156).

While the Report goes a long way towards identifying solutions that are needed in the mental health system, QAIHC has found that the report does not adequately address some key issues specific to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, such as institutional racism and connecting actions with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap priority reforms. The table below shows QAIHC’s recommendations and the extent to which each was addressed in the Commission’s final report.

QAIHC recommendations

Level of inclusion in the final report

Eliminate institutional racism

Some actions recommended, however need further clarification and actions on addressing institutional racism

Mandate partnership with ATSICCHO’s to deliver culturally safe mental health services as preferred providers

Some actions recommended.

Some actions need more clarification

Support improved service integration for sustainable mental health outcomes

Some actions recommended, not adequate

Put greater focus on developing rural remote health workforce adopting a place-based approach

Some actions recommended, however very limited opportunity for ATSICCHO Sector capacity development

Effective monitoring and evaluation; and data sharing mechanism

Some actions recommended, however lacking links with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap targets

If implemented in a timely and appropriate manner, the Commission’s report will drive necessary systemlevel changes that are imperative to meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Creating an effective and culturally safe mental health system will support targets identified in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, specifically, target one (Everyone enjoys long and healthy lives) and 14 (People enjoy high levels of social and emotional wellbeing). However, more advocacy is needed to ensure the recommendations are implemented and that the reformed mental health system truly meets the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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HR

WITH

NICOLE BRIGGS MANAGER, HUMAN RESOURCES QAIHC

Changes to the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2010 The Fair Work Commission recently made changes to the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2010, which is one of the awards underpinning employment within the ATSICCHO sector.

As of 21 December 2020, this award is now titled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2020 and the award has been heavily reviewed and expanded in consultation with the National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners (NAATSIHWP).

Part of this expansion is to ensure that the award applies to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers who operate in private practice and mainstream clinics, and not just within ATSICCHOs. With this change, there has been no amendment to the hourly rates paid across the grades and levels, however, there has been several changes that you need to be aware of: Progression: At the end of each 12 months’ continuous employment, an employee will be eligible for progression from one level to the next within a grade, provided competency and satisfactory performance has been achieved

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Recognition of Prior Service: On appointment, an employee will be classified and placed on the appropriate level according to their qualifications and experience as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner. Prior Part Time work will accrue at a pro-rata rate and Casual work will accrue based on the calculation of 200 casual days = one full time equivalent year.

Rest Breaks—Working in Heat: A new requirement is in place whereby an employer is responsible for monitoring temperature and where work continues for more than two hours in temperature exceeding 46 degrees Celsius, employees will be entitled to a 20-minute rest break every two hours without deduction from pay.

Allowances: Several new allowances have been included in the award in the following areas: Nauseous Work Allowance Medication Administration Allowance Telephone Allowance Blood Count Allowance Replacement, Cleaning or Repair to Damaged Clothing Allowance.

Ceremonial Leave: An employee who is legitimately required to be absent from work for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander ceremonial purposes, including for bereavement related ceremonies and obligations, will be entitled to up to 10 working days unpaid leave in any one year, with the approval of the employer.

New Classification Structure: The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner classifications have been expanded from 4 Grades to 5, and the required qualifications have been included within each of these new grades.

For most of your staff, these changes should not bring about a change in their rate of pay, however you do need to determine if they need to progress through grades based on prior service, if they need to be regraded based on their qualifications, and if they are being paid enough to cover any applicable allowances.

A review of all your Health Workers and Practitioners against these new requirements would be recommended to ensure you are meeting the needs of the new award, and amendments to your hours of work and leave policies could also be required to ensure compliance.

If you have any questions regarding these award changes, you can utilise the Fair Work portal and help line for questions. Alternatively, QAIHC’s Human Resources team are always happy to answer your questions, or to support you with wage and policy reviews as required.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2020 Classification

Qualification requirements

GRADE 1

Enrolled in Certificate II in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care

Level 1 $22.03 p/h GRADE 2 Level 1 $23.61 p/h Level 2 $24.41 p/h

Completed Certificate II in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care or equivalent

GRADE 3 Level 1 $25.69 p/h Level 2 $27.03 p/h

Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care or equivalent

Level 2 $28.34 p/h GRADE 4 Level 1 $29.13 p/h Level 2 $29.92 p/h

Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care or equivalent

Level 3 $30.61 p/h GRADE 5 Level 1 $31.34 p/h

Level 2 $32.08 p/h Level 3 $32.85 p/h

Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice Advanced Diploma/Diploma in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care or equivalent Diploma in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice

Lastly, a handy tip regarding award changes, make sure you bookmark the award from the Fair Work website rather than printing or downloading it—that way you know that when you open the award you are always viewing the most up to date version. awardviewer.fwo.gov.au/award/show/MA000115

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SEWB

WITH

SAMONE SALLIK MANAGER, SEWB WDSU, QAIHC

NARRATIVE Therapy Cairns

2020

The Dulwich Centre held a five-day intensive workshop on narrative therapy and community work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners in Cairns on 9–13 November 2020.

This workshop explored ways in which narrative practices can contribute to decolonising identity stories, linking stories between communities, and sharing practices of culture and healing.

This workshop was facilitated by Tileah Drahm-Butler, and designed with guidance from Aunty Barbara Wingard who has been a key member of the Dulwich Centre Faculty for 20 years.

Tileah is a graduate of the Master of Narrative Therapy and Community Work (University of Melbourne/Dulwich Centre).

QAIHC Workforce Support Development Unit (WSDU) utilised this opportunity; unfortunately, narrative therapy courses are not available within Queensland through any RTO.

Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

Luicianne Warrack Apunipima Health Council, Hopevale

“The Narrative Therapy workshop was a big eye opener for me, it empowered and inspired me. It gave me the ability to feel culturally connected to the land, our home, and our people, it made us feel proud to be First Nation people of Australia. I not only gained extra experience, but I have the confidence that I need in my field of work.”

“I felt very comfortable and safe with the group, and the facilitator was mindful and respectful when dealing with topics around intergenerational trauma, grief and loss and people sharing their own life experiences around case studies.

Genevieve Meldrum Wuchopperen Health Services Edmonton, Cairns

This intensive workshop introduced key narrative practices of externalising, re-authoring, outsider witness, documentation, and the Tree of Life, all through an Aboriginal lens. This workshop also acts as the necessary pre-requisite training to then apply for the 2021 Master of Narrative Therapy and Community Work.

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Ashton Schrieber Gindaja Community, Yarrabah

“This workshop made me more aware on how I can engage better with my Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients on a more culturally based communication level.

It was very culturally appropriate, with everyone identifying themselves from their experiences during their journey.

I was so proud of how the participants crossed barriers to achieve their goals.

The sharing of stories really helped develop links with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and acted as a healing process.”

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The training for me, particularly around narrative practices, gave me value and strength as an Aboriginal woman and social worker to ensure my work with clients has a dialogue.”

Aden Brim Ngoonbi Community Services Indigenous Corporation Community, Kuranda “I enjoyed the weeklong intensive workshop, I learned ways that empower and inspire me. It made me feel connected culturally. The most valuable part was connecting again. This helped me connect culturally and make new friends and I gained a lot of new knowledge.

This workshop will help me in the future to do more professional development to help myself and others in their healing journey.”

Congratulations

to the SEWB graduates of 2020

QAIHC’s Social Emotional and

Wellbeing (SEWB) Workforce Support

The QAIHC SEWB

funding to National Indigenous

Workforce Support

staff to undertake specified

Development Unit

of the NIAA Queensland workforce

would proudly like to

undertaking study, successfully

congratulate all of the

and Training were instrumental in

graduates of 2020

Development Unit (WSDU) provide Australians Agency (NIAA) funded accredited training. In 2020 many who committed themselves to graduated. Gallang Education

providing culturally appropriate

Diploma in Counselling Dean Hegarty—Wuchopperen Health Jayden Kynuna—Gindaja Joshua Thompson—LinkUp Cairns Tamara Yeatman—Gindaja Raeleigh Deem—CACH Thalep Ahmat—Helem Yumba Nathan Anderson—Helem Yumba Vernal Anderson­—Helem Yumba Brooke Edwards—Helem Yumba Carolyn Fyfe—Apunipima Health Council Gregory Mitchell—Helem Yumba

accredited training in Certificate

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Sandra Mitchell—Helem Yumba

Counselling and the Diploma in

Kimberley Gibson—Gungarde Aboriginal Corporation

Cecilie Schuler—Helem Yumba

Rosalyn Doyle—Gumbi Gumbi

Marilyn Thomas—Helem Yumba

Donna Gowa—Gumbi Gumbi

Peta Steedman—Helem Yumba

IV in Mental Health, Diploma in Leadership and Management.

QAIHC SEWB would also like to

thank the individual organisations of all the graduates in supporting the students on their individual learning journey, increasing the numbers of qualified individuals

Vivienne Schwartz—Gumbi Gumbi

Richard Sedan—Apunipima Health Council

Diploma in Leadership and Management

Edwina Smith—Gidgee Healing

Owen Richardson—Gidgee Healing

working in the SEWB and Alcohol and

Certificate IV in AOD—Upskilled

Other Drug (AOD) sector in QLD.

Steven Colbran—ATSICHS Mackay

Note: Some students graduated early in 2020 and were unable to attend the graduation ceremony due to COVID-19.

Photo caption: Rockhampton Cohort Graduation Ceremony December 2020

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Deadly reading and viewing Young Dark Emu (2019)

Zach’s Ceremony (2016)

Author: Bruce Pascoe Bruce Pascoe has collected a swathe of literary awards for Dark Emu and now he has brought together the research and compelling first person accounts in a book for younger readers. Using the accounts of early European explorers, colonists and farmers, Bruce Pascoe compellingly argues for a reconsideration of the hunter-gatherer label for pre-colonial Aboriginal Australians. He allows the reader to see Australia as it was before Europeans arrived—a land of cultivated farming areas, productive fisheries, permanent homes, and an understanding of the environment and its natural resources that supported thriving villages across the continent. Young Dark Emu, A Truer History asks young readers to consider a different version of Australia's history pre-European colonisation.

Director: Aaron Petersen Zach’s Ceremony is an extraordinary, featurelength documentary captured over ten years that shows one boy’s journey to manhood in a complex, emotionally driven story. Zach’s Ceremony celebrates the beauty of Aboriginal culture and to empower emerging generations to change the story to one of positivity and hope. For more information visit zachsceremony.com

For more information visit magabala.com

The N Word (2005)

National Indigenous Times

Author: Stephen Hagan

nit.com.au

Stephen Hagan goes all the way to the United Nations with his battle to remove the word ‘Nigger’ from a sign at a Queensland sportsground. Discover the man behind the public face and see how a childhood growing up in a fringe camp fired his determination to fight for human rights. An uncompromising insight into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander politics.

The National Indigenous Times (NIT) strives to be the most comprehensive Indigenous online news site in Australia by offering rigorous reporting on the issues that affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

NIT celebrates positive stories and achievements, advocate for reconciliation, and offer a balance of stories across news, politics, business, the arts, and sport.

For more information visit magabala.com

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Sector Leader M AG A Z I N E

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EVENTS CALENDAR SIGNIFICANT EVENTS April

2

World Autism Day

2

May

3

Labour Day

Good Friday

9

Mother's Day

4

Easter Sunday

15

National Sorry Day

5

Easter Monday

7

World Health Day

25

ANZAC Day

26

ANZAC Day Observed

27–

3 June

National Reconciliation Week

FREE QAIHC Member Events For more information or to register for an event, email tiana.lea@qaihc.com.au MONTH

DATE

MEMBER EVENT

LOCATION

DURATION

April

13

Human Resources Forum

Brisbane QAIHC office

1 day

14

Finance Forum

Brisbane QAIHC office

1 day

20

Sexual Health Workforce Workshop

Cairns QAIHC office

1 day

20–21

Data Systems and Reports Workshop

Cairns QAIHC office

2 days

References

page 2 National News: Housing for Aboriginal Health 1. Shanaka, H., Bentley, R. (2017). Crowding, housing and health: An exploratory study of Australian cities. Accessed 24/1/2020

page 19 Data Room 1. Australian Health Policy Collaboration, Australian Dental Association. (2018).

Australia’s oral health tracker. Melbourne: Victoria University.

2. National Advisory Council on Dental Health. (2012). Report of the National Advisory Council on Dental Health 2012. Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing.

3. Australian Medical Association. (2019). AMA Report Card on Indigenous Health— No More Decay: addressing the oral health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Barton: ACT 4. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2019). National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey, 2018–19. Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics.

5. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2020). Oral health and dental care in Australia. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dental-oral-health/ oral-health-and-dental-care-in-australia 6. Do, L., and Luzzi, L. (2019). Oral health status. pp 38-91. In: ARCPOH. Australia’s Oral Health: National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017–18. Adelaide: The University of Adelaide, South Australia 7. Do, L., and Spencer, AJ. (2016). Oral health of Australian children: The National Child Oral Health Study 2012–14. Adelaide (Australia): University of Adelaide Press.

page 20 Let's talk about healthy sex 1. Miller, G. C., McDermott, R., McCulloch, B., Fairley, C. K., & Muller, R. (2003).

Predictors of the prevalence of bacterial STI among young disadvantaged Indigenous people in north Queensland, Australia. Sexually Transmitted Infections, 79, 332–335.

2. Ward, J., Bryant, J., Wand, H., Kaldor, J., Delaney-Thiele, D., Worth, H., Betts, S., Waples-Crowe, P., Cairnduff, S., Coburn, T., Donovan, B., & Pitts, P. (2016). Methods of a national survey of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people regarding sexually transmissible infections and bloodborne viruses. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 40, Suppl 1: S96-101. doi: 10.1111/17536405.12427. Epub 2015 Aug 10.

3. Ward, J., Elliott, S., Bryant, J., Donovan, B., Pitts, M., Wand, H., & Kaldor, J. (2020).

The GOANNA Survey 2: Results of the second Australian survey of knowledge, relationship, behaviour and health service access relating to sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and blood borne viruses (BBVs) among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. South Australian Health and Medical Institute. https://youngdeadlyfree.org.au/goanna2/ 4. Ward, J., Elliott, S., Bryant, J., Donovan, B., Pitts, M., Wand, H., & Kaldor, J. (2020).

The GOANNA Survey 2: Results for Queensland. South Australian Health and Medical Institute.

page 22 HIT 1. Department of Health. (2020). Australia's COVID-19 vaccine national roll-out strategy. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/ australias-covid-19-vaccine-national-roll-out-strategy 2. Australian Institute for Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2020). Chronic kidney disease. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-kidneydisease/chronic-kidney-disease/contents/how-many-australians-have-chronickidney-disease

page 24 Conducting research, the right way 1. Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS).

2020). AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research.

Canberra: AIATSIS. 2. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Research Council and Universities Australia. (2018). Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research. Canberra: Commonwealth Australia.

3. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Research Council and Universities Australia. (2018). National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2007 (Updated 2018). Canberra: Commonwealth Australia.

4. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). (2018). Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities: Guidelines for researchers and stakeholders (2018). Canberra: Commonwealth Australia.

5. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). (2018). Keeping research on track II: A companion document to Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities: Guidelines for researchers and stakeholders (2018). Canberra: Commonwealth Australia.

6. Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS).

(2020). A Guide to applying the AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research. Canberra: AIATSIS.

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QAIHC Board Members

Matthew Cooke Chairperson

Sue Andrews Deputy Chairperson

Paula Arnol Far North Queensland Director

David Collins South East Queensland Director

James Cripps North and North West Queensland Director

Sheryl Lawton South and South West Director

Stevan Ober Central Queensland Director

QAIHC Members Members Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service Brisbane Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service Mackay Limited Apunipima Cape York Health Council Bidgerdii Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service Carbal Medical Services Charleville and Western Areas Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Limited Cherbourg Regional Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Service Cunnamulla Aboriginal Corporation for Health

Galangoor Duwalami Primary Healthcare Service

Mamu Health Service Limited

Gidgee Healing

Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation

Girudala Community Co-Operative Society Limited

Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Service

Gladstone Region Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Service t/a Nhulundu Health Service

North Coast Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health

Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Co Limited

NPA Family and Community Services Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation

Goondir Health Services

Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Services

Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

Wuchopperen Health Service Limited

Injilinji Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Children and Youth Services

Yulu-Burri-Ba Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health

Kalwun Health Service Kambu Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health

Regional Members Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Northern Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Alliance 0238