South Australian peak body for Aboriginal health
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Chairperson of the Aboriginal Health Council of SA Inc., Yvonne Buza said their Board of Management congratulates Professor Mick Dodson on being named Australian of the Year.
Ms Buza said the Aboriginal Health Council SA Board is encouraged by Dodson’s award saying this is another step forward for reconciliation begun by Prime Minister Rudd with the Apology.
“Professor Dodson’s commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through his involvement in the review of Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, the Stolen Generations, and more recently spearheading the Apology has gone a long way toward increasing recognition and equity for our people.
“We believe in a holistic approach to health in that the life expectancy gap cannot close with improved health services and education alone. There must first be recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the owners of this land to heal the spiritual and emotional wellbeing of our people before any real advancements in health can be made.
“We are pleased to have a strong political voice at the national level through which the AHCSA Board can represent our members and their respective communities to ensure everyone’s views are heard. AHCSA continues to work with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation and now with Professor Dodson’s position believes that a greater mutual understanding of Aboriginal people’s needs can be engendered at the national level, said Ms Buza.
The Aboriginal Health Council of SA Inc. is the peak body representing Aboriginal health and substance misuse services, and Aboriginal health advisory committees in South Australia at a state and national level. Their primary role is to be the 'health voice' for all Aboriginal people in South Australia. They achieve this by advocating for the community and supporting workers with appropriate Aboriginal health programs.
