Let's close the gap

Across Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women live on average 8.8 and 8.1 years less than non-Aboriginal men and women, respectively. 

In recognition that this must change, staff and Community recently came together for National Close the Gap Day. 

Events were held at Sutherland, St George, Sydney/Sydney Eye hospitals, Randwick campus and the PaCH William Street offices, where staff got to yarn with Elders and Community members about how we can work together to build a better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

“I am proud of the work we are doing and the progress we have made, but this work is far from over,” says Skye Parsons, Director of Aboriginal Health. 

“National Close the Gap Day is an important opportunity to acknowledge where we are at, have honest conversations, and hear from Aboriginal people about their experiences in the healthcare system and how we can improve the care they receive.” 

Community voices and co-design are central to Healthy Mob, Strong Community: Aboriginal Health Plan 2024-2026. The Plan commits SESLHD to the following strategic actions: 

• Community Informed Decision-making 
• Equity and Access 
• Working in Partnership 
• Aboriginal Workforce 
• Cultural Safety 
• Data Sovereignty and Governance. 

There are many examples of Healthy Mob, Strong Community in action: from the success of the Aboriginal School Based Trainee Program, to the launch of the Gadigal Eye Clinic. Keep a look out on our channels to learn more about the programs and people across our District who are dedicated to closing the gap. 

Published 2 April 2025