Peak Body Welcomes SA Aboriginal Health Worker Exemption
Friday, February 19, 2010
The Aboriginal Health Council of SA Inc. has welcomed the Equal Opportunity Tribunal’s decision to grant an exemption under the Act to enable health services to advertise specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to fill Aboriginal Health Worker positions over the next 3 years.
Chairperson of the Aboriginal Health Council Ms Yvonne Buza says the exemption recognises the unique role and skills of Aboriginal Health Workers in meeting the complex health needs of Aboriginal people.
The application made by the State Government and supported by the Aboriginal Health Council resulted in the exemption being granted to the State of South Australia in addition to members of the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia.
The exemption applies to government operated health services and Aboriginal community controlled health services that employ Aboriginal Health Workers.
Ms Buza said it should be noted that the exemption is only for a period of 3 years and only for the occupation of Aboriginal Health Worker not the many other positions for which applicants are sought. At the end of this period, a new application will have to be made.
“We are pleased that this exemption has been allowed. It will certainly benefit the Aboriginal community controlled health services that the Aboriginal Health Council represents.”
“The employment of Aboriginal people in Aboriginal Health Worker positions is extremely important for local communities. Aboriginal people understand the culture, language, social and health issues of their communities in a comprehensive way and, therefore, are more able to assist with closing the gap initiatives.”
The Aboriginal Health Council of SA Inc. is an Aboriginal community controlled organisation and is the peak body for Aboriginal health in South Australia. The Council represents Aboriginal health and substance misuse services, and Aboriginal health advisory committees across the state.