Reconciliation Action Plan

HEAL recognises the importance of supporting the national reconciliation movement and as such we are proud to announce that our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – Reflect, has achieved final endorsement.

The HEAL RAP is an important initiative to ensure that HEAL is accountable for the development of respectful relationships and to the creation of meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through the provision of continuing professional development courses to health professionals, HEAL (and the AICG) have an opportunity to improve socio-economic and health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. It can be viewed here.

Cover artwork acknowledgement: Louise Numina, Bush Medicine Leaves (proudly displayed in HEAL's Melbourne office foyer)
Louise paints her Dreaming story, the leaves of the Bush Medicine Plant. This particular plant refers to a species of acacia, which is used as part of traditional indigenous healing. Women collect leaves from this plant and boil them to extract the resin. The resin is then mixed with kangaroo fat, which results in a paste. This paste is used to heal bites, wounds, cuts and rashes and can also be used as an insect repellent. The leaves from the plant can also be brewed to make tea and can be used to alleviate symptoms of the common flu.