Gayaa Dhuwi calls for empathy, understanding and action ahead of January 26
Gayaa Dhuwi is calling for empathy and understanding as Australians choose to recognise January 26 in different ways, highlighting the significant impact the date has on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
For many of our people, January 26 has been a day of mourning and reflection, long before its designation as a national public holiday. For our communities, this is a time to look out for one another, draw strength from culture and community, and seek support where needed.
The ongoing impacts of colonisation continue to impact the social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and suicide risk of our communities. These impacts are compounded by a recent rise in overt racism toward Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people following the Voice Referendum, alongside a rise in racism across the world. This racism and the public celebration of a day of mourning can significantly increase distress for our communities.
Gayaa Dhuwi Chair, Professor Helen Milroy AM, emphasised the importance of care and compassion during this period.
“This is a time of heightened distress and public discourse for our people. It is vital that our communities care for one another and show kindness to ourselves,” Professor Milroy said.
“It is also important to recognise when our own wellbeing is at risk, or when others are experiencing distress. We encourage everyone to be aware of available supports and to come together with community.”
In the lead up to the day, Gayaa Dhuwi reminds governments and decision-makers of the enduring impacts of racism, colonialism and discrimination. It remains urgent for the existing mental health system to be culturally safe and appropriate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We know significant reforms are needed to achieve this.
Gayaa Dhuwi CEO Rachel Fishlock said “Despite the continued work of our sector and communities, mental health complexities and suicide rates continue to increase in our communities.”
“Existing government commitments to improving mental health outcomes must be delivered upon. Gayaa Dhuwi calls for the urgent implementation of the recommendations of the Productivity Commission’s review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.”
“This policy inertia is demonstrated by a decade of repeating recommendations. The persistent gap between the mental health reform and investment that is required continues to undermine meaningful and sustainable progress to increase social and emotional wellbeing and reduce suicide rates. This is despite generations of strong culture and knowledge that we know provides a way forward.”
Governments must commit to implementing the Gayaa Dhuwi Declaration Framework and Implementation Plan 2025-35 in full if our communities are to experience real change.
January 26 is an opportunity to reflect on the fact that unrealised actions and unfulfilled commitments have real impacts for our communities, and to consider the next steps that we can take together to achieve the highest attainable standard of mental health and suicide prevention outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
ENDS
Gayaa Dhuwi reminds the public and media outlets of the importance of responsible and culturally respectful reporting when it comes to issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This includes adhering to the Good Yarn Guidelines and ensuring that crisis support services are promoted effectively.
24/7 crisis helpline services available to the community include:
13 YARN (139276) – a dedicated support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Brother to Brother crisis line (1800 435 799) – providing support for men
Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) – for young people in need of support
For further information, and resources, or to access support services, please visit www.gayaadhuwi.org.au
About Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia
Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia is the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing, mental health, and suicide prevention. As a community-controlled organisation, it is governed and controlled by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experts and peak bodies, working to promote collective excellence in mental healthcare.
Media Contacts:
Kelli Cooper-Durant
Ph. 0437 055 577; communications@gayaadhuwi.org.au
www.gayaadhuwi.org.au