Aboriginal Chronic Disease Prevention Project
Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, kidney and heart disease are the leading causes of illness, disability and death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and account for close to 80% of the life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.
Almost half of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live with at least one chronic disease and have complex health needs. Chronic diseases are long-lasting conditions with a persistent impact upon health. They have social and economic consequences that can impact on people’s quality of life.
The urgency of action to help raise awareness of and manage chronic disease and its complications particularly in Aboriginal people is affirmed in the Australian Government Closing the Gap Report and the National Diabetes Strategy 2021 – 2030. Both advocate for a major focus on person-centric care and co-design of programs with consumers, particularly in Aboriginal communities.
About the Project
The Aboriginal Chronic Disease Prevention Project has been developed as an enduring and worthwhile legacy to mark the Centenary of Rotary in South Australia.
The project will fund two Aboriginal PhD scholars over 3 ½ years to undertake research to establish a capability development program that supports the upskilling of an Aboriginal healthcare workforce in chronic disease prevention.
The successful candidates will work within Aboriginal communities to develop culturally appropriate models for improving health outcomes.
Key Objectives of the Project
- Establish a capability development program in partnership with Aboriginal communities that supports the training of Aboriginal practitionersand researchers in chronic disease prevention.
- Understand the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal communities and health services regarding management and prevention of chronic disease.
- Co-design prevention and awareness programmes with Aboriginal communities and health services and support community leadership in their implementation.
- Harness and engage the expertise and capabilities of Rotary and the broader community directly to respond to the needs of Aboriginal communities in relation to chronic disease prevention.
"The School of Public Health at the University of Adelaide has a long tradition of teaching and research in evidence-based approaches to health promotion, disease prevention, and community engagement. In partnership with the Wardliparingga Aboriginal Health Equity Team at SAHMRI we are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander communities.
We strongly endorse Rotary’s initiative for the sustainable development of the next generation of Aboriginal leaders with the foundational knowledge and research skills to develop practical approaches for reducing the incidence and consequences of chronic disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our School is excited to be part of this Rotary Centenary initiative."
Professor Tracy Merlin, Interim Head, School of Public Health, the University of Adelaide and Chair of the University’s Academic Board.
"The Aboriginal Health Equity Theme at SAHMRI in partnership with the School of Public Health at the University of Adelaide strongly endorses Rotary’s initiative for the sustainable development of the next generation of Aboriginal leaders with the research skills to impact the incidence and prevention of chronic disease in Aboriginal communities long into the future. Our team is excited to be part of this initiative."
Associate Professor Odette Pearson Co-Theme & Population Health Platform Lead Wardliparingga Aboriginal Health Equity Team, SAHMRI Adjunct A/Prof Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide
How to support the project
The Centenary of Rotary in South Australia is a unique opportunity for Rotarians to do what we do best. As people of action, we work together to create a better place for our community and the world.
The Aboriginal Chronic Disease Prevention Project is an opportunity to contribute to an enduring legacy for future generations.
Tax deductible donations to fund the project can be made by visiting australianrotaryhealth.org.au/donate-now/
Make sure to include ‘CENT100’ in the comments.
Or simply scan the QR code below.
Our aim is to raise $280,000 over the next 3 years.
For more information email:
Project Partners
To deliver this important project, Rotary Adelaide, Rotary District 9510 and Australian Rotary Health are working in partnership with The School of Public Health at The University of Adelaide and the Wardliparinggi Aboriginal Health Equity team at SAHMRI.
