Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

St George Hospital acknowledges and pays deep respect to the traditional custodians, the Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation who have cared for the land.

We acknowledge Elders past, present and pay respect to their unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.

Asking the Question: Are you Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander?

To support you better, we ask all patients if they are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Telling us if you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person assists us with providing culturally supported healthcare and services to make your stay more comfortable.

Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Service

Coming into hospital can be stressful. Our Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer (AHLO) can provide emotional, social, and cultural support. Our Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Service can provide you with the following support:

Emotional, social, and cultural support
Information about hospital and community services
Advocacy and support for patients and families
Services that respect Aboriginal culture
Sorry Business (grief and loss)
Women’s or Men’s Business
Anxiety or loneliness while in hospital
IPTAAS forms (for travel and accommodation if you’re from the country; ensure your doctor fills in their part).

Our AHLO works Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm. You can telephone our AHLO directly on 02 9113 2707 or contact the hospital’s Social Work Department on 02 9113 2494. You can also call our switchboard on 02 9113 1111 and ask them to contact the AHLO for you.

Bidjigal Family and Carers Lounge

Bidjigal Family and Carers Lounge is a special room for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families, and carers. You can come here to have a cuppa, a yarn, or just relax while a loved one is in the hospital.

The room is open every day from 8am to 8pm. You can use this room to talk about any concerns you have about the hospital in a private and confidential way, so we can help you.

The Bidjigal Family and Carers Lounge is located on Level 4, Ward Tower Block. Turn left when exiting the lifts.

Bidjigal Family and Carers Lounge door