National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to reflect on the country's shared history, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore how we can work towards achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Health Infrastructure (HI) formalised its commitment to reconciliation with the launch of its
Reconciliation Australia endorsed
Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan in February 2023.
It acknowledges our commitment to listen to and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as we plan and design culturally safe health facilities across NSW.
One way HI is doing that is through the incorporation of Aboriginal stories into the design of health facilities
Following consultation with local Yuin and Dharawal Elders, the design of the five buildings at the new Shellharbour Hospital will be informed by the Five Islands Aboriginal Creation Story, a deeply significant story for the Yuin and Dharawal community.
HI is also implementing its commitment through respecting the local community ties to the land on which health facilities are built.
Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment project team had the pleasure of joining local Wonnarua Elders and community to learn about and experience the cultural and spiritual practices of the Wonnarua people, on Wonnarua lands.
These are only some of the way which HI has incorporated the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples into the delivery of health facilities. We are committed to continue this journey into the future and move towards achieving reconciliation in Australia.