NAATSIHWP seeks funding to develop a culturally respectful Image Library that authentically captures the vital contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners.These professionals play a critical role in improving health outcomes through culturally safe care, education, and advocacy. However, their work remains under-recognised in the public domain. While existing NAATSIHWP ...
National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Islander Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners
Image Library Project: Telling the Story of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners
GOAL
$5,000
Australia > National / Multi-state > Metro and Regional
Field of Interest
- First Nations communities
- Health/wellbeing and medical research
Target Population
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Not applicable
National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Islander Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners
The National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners (NAATSIHWP) is truly unique service led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, championing the vital role of same-culture health workers within their own communities. Beyond advocacy, NAATSIHWP provides national training and regulation to support its members.
For nearly a century, these professionals have delivered safe, effective, and culturally responsive healthcare to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Their work combines clinical, cultural, social, and linguistic expertise, creating connections within communities that other health professionals often cannot achieve. Acting as cultural brokers and guides, they ensure care is not only high-quality but also culturally respectful and attuned.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners serve as a vital bridge between culture and care, providing healthcare that respects and integrates cultural traditions. With no equivalent roles in mainstream healthcare, their work is both unique and indispensable.
Trained through the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system, these professionals are equipped with practical skills tailored to the specific needs of their communities. Their contribution is far-reaching. They restore trust in healthcare, guide patients through complex systems, deliver culturally safe care, and support early intervention and prevention, ultimately improving access and outcomes.
Yet, these vital roles are frequently under-recognized and under-supported. NAATSIHWP is dedicated to developing, supporting, and advocating for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they need to continue their essential work.
Project Summary
NAATSIHWP seeks funding to develop a culturally respectful Image Library that authentically captures the vital contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners.
These professionals play a critical role in improving health outcomes through culturally safe care, education, and advocacy. However, their work remains under-recognised in the public domain.
While existing NAATSIHWP images have focused on member engagement and their professional development, this project aims to raise public awareness by telling a broader story—one that reflects their everyday impact.
The project aims to collect a minimum of 100 high-quality, natural photographs from across urban, regional, rural, and remote Australia—each ethically sourced with media release permissions. These images will support NAATSIHWP’s advocacy, outreach, and digital storytelling across reports, campaigns, and social media platforms.
To encourage participation—particularly from Health Workers and Practitioners, three incentive prizes in the form of gift vouchers: $2,500, $1,500, and $1,000 from online retailers. Offering vouchers from retailers (including, Amazon, Officeworks and JB HiFi) ensures inclusivity for participants in remote and rural locations.
This project will not only build a valuable visual archive but also strengthen recognition, pride, and respect for this vital workforce—supporting long-term recruitment and cultural awareness in the health system.
We are seeking philanthropic support to bring this project to life. Your contribution will help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners are seen, heard, and celebrated—building greater recognition, respect, and community understanding.
Together, we can help tell a story that matters.
Project Outcomes
Designed as a powerful storytelling tool the Image Library has the potential to create significant, lasting outcomes across the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health landscape.
Initially, the successful collection and curation of at least 100 high-quality, community-sourced images will be a tangible outcome. These images will span urban, regional, rural, and remote areas across Australia. Following judging, a report will be provided to funders outlining the geographic spread and diversity of the material collected.
Beyond this, the Image Library has the potential to deliver broader social and sectoral impact. By visually showcasing the essential work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, the project aims to:
- Encourage recruitment into the profession, addressing a critical gap in the health workforce.
- Elevate public recognition of the importance of culturally safe health and wellbeing support.
- Strengthen the self-identity and pride of existing Health Workers and Practitioners, affirming the value of their roles.
- Build respect across the broader health sector for the unique contributions these professionals make to improving health outcomes.
With the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population projected to grow from 980,000 in 2021 to nearly 1.2 million by 2031, expanding and supporting this workforce is vital. The Image Library will be a catalyst for long-term workforce development by inspiring future generations to join the profession.
Together, these outcomes will contribute to more equitable and culturally safe healthcare for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Budget Breakdown
TOTAL BUDGET: $8,480
FUNDING
| Funding source | Amount |
|---|---|
| NATTSIHWP | $3,840 |
| Funding Gap | $5,000 |
EXPENSES
| Expense item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Marketing development (including developing and responding to social media, newsletter advertisements and broadcasts to all members) | $1,780 |
| Graphic Design | $500 |
| Administration (internet, phone, collation for judging) | $1,200 |
| Prizes | $5,000 |
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