In the SA Health context, DHW recognises Aboriginal Peoples* as the Traditional Custodians of the lands in which we work and live and we celebrate their cultures and heritage. We acknowledge the impact colonisation has had on the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal Peoples and encourage all staff to take positive steps towards reconciliation.
Reconciliation, at its heart, is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal Peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. There are five dimensions of reconciliation – Race Relations, Equality and Equity, Institutional Integrity, Unity, and Historical Acceptance. Learn about each dimension on the Reconciliation Australia website.
The Department for Health and Wellbeing Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, May 2026 – April 2029 (PDF 7.5MB) (RAP) sets out new targets to drive genuine, sustainable change that advances reconciliation throughout the Department.
This RAP sets out clear actions to embed reconciliation into how we commission health services, shape policy and strategic direction, engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations, and strengthen cultural capability across our workforce. The RAP features new artwork by Eastern Arrernte artist, Pat Caruso, which reflects the journey to co-design between the Department and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Stretch RAP ensures the Department for Health and Wellbeing has a strong foundation to build on when we are ready to undertake the next framework (Elevate).
Reconciliation is not a single action, but an ongoing journey that requires honesty, cultural understanding, and accountability.
* In alignment with the leadership of the South Australian Commissioner for Aboriginal Engagement, the term ‘Aboriginal Peoples’ is used here to be inclusive of people who identify as Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, or both.