Department of Rural Health

Cultural Safety Projects and Initiatives

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we live, work, learn and meet. We extend that respect to the wisdom of all Elders, past and present.

We thank First Nations peoples for their continuous connection and care for Country and the land, sky and waterways across the University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health footprint. The Department has a presence on the lands of the Anaiwan, Gumbaynggirr, Kamilaroi, Birpai, Biripi and Awabakal Nations.

We strive so that the work we do together every day helps to close the gap in health access and health education opportunities for First Nations peoples everywhere.

Embedding cultural safety

We champion cultural safety across our department through meaningful initiatives that promote respect, inclusion, and deep listening in all aspects of our work.

By walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we aim to deliver culturally informed projects, resources, and training help our staff and students learn, build stronger relationships, and contribute to culturally safe and responsive practice across the communities we serve.

Our Projects

A celebration of culture, country, and community: DRH Commissioned artwork 2024

Hailing from Northern Gumbaynggirr Country, Josie's deep understanding of our regions has shone through Wild Flowers, a piece that deeply resonates with our local landscapes and ecosystems.

Culturally safe spaces

WALAAYBAA is a space for our students, staff and communities to meet, yarn, work, study and reconnect. Safe places are essential for our wellbeing and to keep grounded.

Cultural safety training for our students

Learn more about embark, our cultural safety training program for students undertaking placements within the Department.

Cultural resource hub: Enhancing our collective knowledge and understanding

The hub was developed to provide an opportunity to learn, connect and understand the diverse cultures that exist within our communities, linking our cultural education and training, resources and information, support and contacts all in the one place.

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.