Call for Close the Gap commitment

Victoria’s Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation has called on the re-elected Labor government to make good on its commitment to Close the Gap and improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

First Nations people continue to experience poorer health outcomes culminating in a substantial gap in life expectancy between Aboriginal and non-Indigenous Australians.

VACCHO CEO Dr Jill Gallagher, said she was pleased to see both Senator Penny Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese deliver an Acknowledgement of Country in their victory speeches on election night.

“This election outcome has shown us that Australians have voted against divisive and racist politics and voted for fairness, equality and unity.”

Dr Gallagher said she felt people could breathe a sigh of relief and feel hopeful that the needs of communities could be talked about more.

“The outcome of this election should mark the end of my people being used as a political football. Despite numerous promises and commitments, there’s no denying that the gap still remains wide, but with a renewed leadership comes a renewed sense of hope,” she said.

VACCHO has said it would like to see the government invest in Aboriginal Community-Controlled health infrastructures to ensure the delivery of culturally safe and effective care and help close the gap.

“I implore the re-elected Federal Labor Government to prioritise adequately resourcing Aboriginal organisations and make meaningful commitments that go beyond election cycles,” she said.