The National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners (NAATSIHWP) is the national peak workforce organisation with responsibility for ensuring this workforce is embedded as a vital, valued and professional component of Australia’s health care system. We support a growing national network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners through the provision of ongoing support, training and resources, and consider the professional development of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners as tangible and meaningful action. It recognises their value, promotes recognition, contributes to positive sustainable health, education, and employment outcomes, and greater autonomy and self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia.
For over a century our workforce has cemented themselves as critical to front line efforts to protect their communities. Evidence now consistently demonstrates how strong and effective health services can be when they work collaboratively and employ our people. The 2023 NAATSIHWP Professional Development Symposium, GROWING OUR WORKFORCE provided a significant opportunity to harness the deadly skills of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.
The Symposium was held at Adelaide Convention Centre in South Adelaide. Opening with a Welcome Reception on the evening of 23 October, it was followed by two full days of practical and cultural immersion on 24 and 25 October.