Using Policy and Workforce Development to Address Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellbeing

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this paper is to discuss the New South Wales (NSW) Aboriginal Mental Health and Well Being Policy and its key workforce initiative, the NSW Aboriginal Mental Health Workforce Training Program.

Conclusions: The Policy provides a strong framework guiding the development of Aboriginal mental health and wellbeing programs throughout NSW Mental Health Services. However, the effectiveness of the Policy will be determined by the success of its implementation. The NSW Aboriginal Mental Health Workforce Training Program will support implementation of the Policy by growing an Aboriginal mental health workforce in NSW.

Keywords

Aboriginal people mental health policy social and emotional wellbeing workforce

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References

National Strategic Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Mental Health and Social and Emotional Well Being 2004–2009. Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing; 2005:

NSW Aboriginal Mental Health and Well Being Policy 2006–2010. Sydney: NSW Department of Health, 2007;