Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Embedding Priority Reforms

Priority Reforms for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander genomics

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap's Priority Reforms outline how governments should work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and communities so that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a genuine say on policies and programs that impact them.

In alignment with the Priority Reforms, Genomics Australia will ensure genomics contributes to closing health gaps and improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Organisations and Partners

Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners

Genomics Australia works alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations to ensure genomics is led by community priorities and cultural values. We are developing partnerships to inform the implementation of culturally safe and responsive approaches to genomic healthcare and research.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement

Building a dedicated engagement mechanism

In alignment with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap Priority Reform One, Genomics Australia will develop a formal engagement mechanism with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This mechanism will ensure that their voices and knowledge shape how genomics is integrated into health, research and policy.

Closing the Gap

Building a culturally safe future in genomics

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap is a commitment between all Australian Governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak organisations. Its objective is to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and governments to work together to overcome the inequality and achieve life outcomes equal to all Australians.

Statement of Commitment

Shaping genomics through respect and partnership

Genomics Australia is committed to working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We recognise the strength, knowledge and leadership that Aboriginal and Torres Islander communities bring to the future of genomics and affirm that their voices must guide how this field develops.

Guiding Principles

Guiding principles for culturally safe genomics

The Ensuring Culturally Safe Health Genomics with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples - the Guiding Principles are currently being developed by the department’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group on Health Genomics.