The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council (NATSIAACC) acknowledges the federal government’s $115million funding for the construction of new Aged Care Beds and urges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and Older People are considered.

As the national peak body representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Ageing and Aged Care, NATSIAACC provides leadership and advice to ensure Aged Care systems recognise the cultural, social and community determinants that shape the wellbeing of our Elders and Older People.

Kim Whiteley, CEO of NASTIAACC, says, “The needs of our Elders and Older People must not be forgotten during this challenging period for the Aged Care sector. Our Elders and Older People are the holders of knowledge, customs, beliefs and cultural authority within our families and communities. When they are left waiting in hospitals not designed to support their care, and where their cultural needs are not properly recognised, it becomes harder to achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes.”

We urge the Australian Government to consider the following needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders when addressing Bed Block:

• Cultural Safety to be Respected as a Foundational Principle
• Self-Determination at the Forefront
• Pathways must be Co-designed and Transparent

Click here to download a copy of NATSIAACC’s Position Statement