Aboriginal employment
Western Health is committed to increasing and supporting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce. We recognise the important contributions Aboriginal employees make to our workplace, and we are dedicated to providing a culturally safe, inclusive and supportive environment.
Honouring Country and Aboriginal culture
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of all the lands and waterways where Western Health staff, volunteers, patients, families and caregivers come together.
We pay our respects to the Elders and Traditional Custodians past, present and emerging – particularly the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, Boon Wurrung, Bunurong and Wadawurrung Peoples of the greater Kulin Nation.
We are committed to:
- the healing of Country
- cultural safety and respect
- reconciliation and equity in health outcomes.
We follow the principles of relationship, responsibility and respect, guided by Aboriginal voices and leadership.
Please note: The term “Aboriginal” is used to refer to all Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is inclusive of people in Victoria who identify as Indigenous Australians, Koori and Koorie.
Supporting our Aboriginal employees
We are proud to support Aboriginal staff and provide meaningful employment opportunities and career pathways. Some of the key actions we’ve taken include:
- establishing a dedicated Aboriginal Employment Committee that represents and advocates for Aboriginal employees
- participating in Department of Health workforce initiatives, including helping introduce online Aboriginal cultural awareness training across Victorian public hospitals
- implementing our Aboriginal Employment Plan, which outlines strategies to grow, support and retain our Aboriginal workforce.
Culturally safe services and support
Our Aboriginal Health Unit – Wilim Berrbang works to ensure our services are welcoming, respectful and culturally safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families.
We also offer:
- the Koori Maternity Service (KMS), providing culturally safe pregnancy, birth and postnatal care for up to two weeks
- partnerships aligned with the Korin Korin Balit-Djak: Aboriginal Health, Wellbeing and Safety Strategic Plan
- strong community relationships built on trust, respect and cultural understanding.
Commitment to Closing the Gap
Western Health is an official signatory to the Closing the Gap strategy and supports national and local efforts to reduce inequalities in health, wellbeing and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Inclusive recruitment and interview support
We are committed to providing culturally safe and supportive recruitment experiences.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are encouraged to request an Aboriginal support person for their interview.
- This can be arranged by contacting the Panel Chair once you are invited to interview.
We use inclusive and transparent recruitment processes to ensure equity, respect and opportunity for all.
Related resources
Wilim Berrbang (Aboriginal Health Unit)
Western Health Aboriginal Employment Plan
Related external websites