Celebrating our Indigenous communities

Today marks the beginning of National NAIDOC Week in Australia, an important week for recognising the culture, history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The theme of this year’s NAIDOC week is ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’, and we’re celebrating this with a week of programming spotlighting the importance of the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, and the role the RCH plays in caring for these children.

The RCH, supported by the RCH Foundation, is committed to providing culturally appropriate care and support to all its patients and their families, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Please enjoy a very special message from the N’arweet Dr Carolyn Briggs AM, Senior Boonwurrung Elder and Aunty Joy Murphy AO, Senior Wurundjeri Elder. Both leaders co-chair the RCH Foundation RCH150 Aboriginal Steering Committee, and we thank them and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for the significant contributions they make to the hospital.

We look forward to sharing more content with you throughout NAIDOC Week including a spotlight on the Indigenous services supported by philanthropy at the hospital, the team behind a specialised outreach services focused on the health of Indigenous children, and some exciting upcoming RCH Foundation projects including the RCH150 Aboriginal Art Project and the Me and UooUoo: RCH150 Anniversary Art Trail.

Happy NAIDOC Week!