Praise for Aboriginal healthcare workers

MORE than 20 Territory health professionals were awarded at the 2021 Northern Territory Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner Excellence Awards on Thursday night.

The winners were announced at a celebration event in Darwin recognising the significant contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals to their communities.

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners employed in the Northern Territory were eligible for nomination, as well as students studying relevant qualifications.

Health Minister Natasha Fyles praised the outstanding contribution of Indigenous health workers.

“I congratulate the 21 health professionals recognised tonight as well as all other frontline health workers in the Territory who make a positive difference to their communities,” she said.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers play a vital role in the delivery of services and provide a conduit between traditional health and western medical services.”

The awards are held in partnership with the Australian government Department of Health, NT Health, Darwin Sunrise Rotary Club, United Workers Union, Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory and the National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.