National Reconciliation Week 2026 – We’re All In!
National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) is an opportunity for all Australians to reflect on our shared history, learn from one another, and consider the role we each play in advancing reconciliation.
For those working in healthcare, it is a reminder that reconciliation is not something we focus on for one week of the year. It is work that continues every day through the way we deliver care, build relationships and deliver culturally safe care.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have strong connections to culture, family and community that support health and wellbeing. However, they continue to experience a disproportionate burden of stroke, including higher rates at younger ages and poorer outcomes. Systemic barriers can impact access to timely, culturally safe and person-centred care.
As health professionals, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to contribute to improved outcomes through providing culturally safe, person-centred care and forming strong partnerships.
Practical actions you can take
Reflect on your practice
- Do you know how many of the people you support identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander?
- Are you routinely and respectfully asking if someone identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander?
- Do your patients feel safe to identify and share their cultural needs?
- Do you feel equipped to provide culturally appropriate and person-centred care and information?
Build your cultural capability
- Participate in cultural awareness training offered through your local health service.
- Learn about the Traditional Custodians of the Country where you live and work.
- Seek opportunities to learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues and community-controlled organisations.
Strengthen partnerships
- Build relationships with local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and Aboriginal Medical Services.
- Understand referral pathways and supports available in your local community.
Review your resources
- Consider whether the information you provide is culturally appropriate, accessible and relevant.
- Explore stroke resources developed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
Get involved in National Reconciliation Week
- Attend local events and conversations in your community.
- Use this week as a starting point for ongoing learning and action throughout the year. Take time to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures. Read a book or watch a film.
Reconciliation is everyone's business
Improving stroke outcomes takes more than excellent clinical care. It requires culturally safe care, strong relationships, and health systems that genuinely partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
This National Reconciliation Week, we encourage you to reflect on what reconciliation looks like in your role and identify one practical action you can take to support better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by stroke.
Together, small actions taken consistently can contribute to meaningful change.
Additional resources:
Our Stroke Journey and F.A.S.T. resources
Written by the Mob, for the Mob
Reimagining F.A.S.T. on Dunghutti Country
Stroke Foundation respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia, whose sovereignty was never ceded, and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water, sky and community. We pay our respect to the peoples, cultures, and Elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, culture and hope of their peoples.
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