National Close the Gap Day is a powerful reminder that health equality is still not a reality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and that meaningful change requires collective action.
It shines a light on the ongoing disparities in life expectancy, child mortality, education and employment outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non‑Indigenous Australians. It also recognises the remarkable strength, resilience and leadership of the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
At its core, Closing the Gap is about self‑determination.
Recognising that the best outcomes are achieved when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a genuine voice in the decisions, policies and programs that affect their lives.
The National Agreement on Closing the Gap represents an important shift in approach, bringing governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities together in shared decision‑making. This partnership supports First Nations leadership on the issues that matter most to their communities.
At Umwelt, we understand that Closing the Gap requires:
- Commit to adequate, long‑term funding to achieve health equality
- Invest in genuine partnerships and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander‑led health services
- Address the critical social determinants of health, including housing, education and self‑determination
By raising awareness and showing support, we can improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and contribute to lasting change.
This year, we are proud to announce a donation on Close the Gap Day, supporting MooGoo’s Prevent Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Project. This community-led initiative, delivered in partnership with the Take Heart Foundation and the Yarrabah Community near Cairns, aims to reduce RHD risk and support better long-term health outcomes for First Nations Australians. Rheumatic Heart Disease is a preventable condition and a significant contributor to health inequity in Australia, and this project focuses on improving skin hygiene practices in First Nations communities.
Umwelt acknowledges the enduring resilience, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We support the Closing the Gap initiative through our Reconciliation Action Plan.
Learn more, sign the pledge and join the movement for health equality at Close the Gap.
