OUR RAP
The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health is committed to reconciliation between Australia’s First Nations peoples and non-indigenous Australians. This is laid out in QAMH’S first Reconciliation Action Plan, which was formally endorsed in March 2023.
In keeping with Reconciliation Australia’s framework, our first plan is a Reflect RAP, allowing QAMH to scope and develop relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, lay out its vision for reconciliation and explore opportunities in our sphere of influence.
Embarking on a reconciliation process resonates strongly with our sense of social justice and working towards a fair and equal society. We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are often over-represented in mental health statistics.
Concerningly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples report that they are often treated poorly in mental health systems which are not delivering culturally appropriate models of care. Historical and ongoing colonisation, including the forced removal of children, lack of self-determination and structural racism contribute to this.
We believe, as the peak body representing the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Sector in Queensland, we have an obligation to be part of the process of righting these historical wrongs.
QAMH acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, learn and work and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to Elders both past, present and emerging.