In early 2024, former APA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy Officer Alyce Merritt identified that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Committee was receiving a number of commonly asked queries from staff and members. 

But I do know this: if we want the APA to lead healthcare reform that puts the patient journey at the centre and if we want to see physiotherapy properly funded to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, we must build advocacy alliances with urgency and intent.

For this federal election, the APA was more prepared than ever. 

When cultural safety is talked about in physiotherapy or healthcare more broadly, it’s easily reduced by many to something surface level, like a quick training session, a tokenistic Acknowledgement of Country, a social media post or knowing the right words to say. 

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2021–2031 (Department of Health 2021) defines cultural safety as follows:

National Close the Gap Day is held annually on the third Thursday in March, which this year falls on 20 March. 

It’s a day that holds particular importance for the APA because we are keenly aware of the critical role that physiotherapy can, and should, play in closing the gap in life expectancy, child mortality and education and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. 

The Australian healthcare system is among the strongest in the world, underpinned by Medicare, which ensures that most Australians have access to essential medical services. 

This universal healthcare framework supports equitable health outcomes and reflects the nation’s commitment to high standards of care through world-class hospitals, a skilled workforce and advancements in medical research. 

As I settle into my role as CEO at the APA, I am appreciative of how my clinical background and experience in member organisations have aided this transition. 

As a physiotherapist, I keenly understand the level of training and study required in our profession. 

My own experience delivering clinical physiotherapy, navigating the scope of practice, taking part in professional development and working extensively in the education sector has given me valuable insight that I have brought to this position.