The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) has today launched the second Elder Care Support National Yarning Circle in Adelaide, bringing together frontline workers, health leaders, and policymakers to drive a culturally grounded reform of aged care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Held on Kaurna Country, this year’s gathering builds on the success of the inaugural 2024 event, celebrating the growth of the national Elder Care Support workforce and their critical role in reimagining aged care for older First Nations peoples.
NACCHO Executive Director Monica Barolits-McCabe said the event honours the role of Elders as carriers of culture, wisdom, and history.
“Our Elders carry our culture, wisdom, and stories. Caring for them is a sacred responsibility, not simply a service.”
Monica Barolits-McCabe
“Through the Elder Care Support Program, we are transforming aged care by placing culture, connection to Country, and community at its heart,” Ms Barolits-McCable added.
Delegates at the Yarning Circle will focus on expanding place-based, culturally safe solutions that prioritise connection to Country and holistic support. With an ageing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population and persistent health inequities, the gathering is seen as a vital step toward reshaping aged care services.
Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly welcomed the event, acknowledging the importance of community-led care models.
“I commend NACCHO and the Elder Care Support Workers who demonstrate how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led care models can shift the system,” Ms Kelly said.
“The Elder Care Support Program is helping to put culture, dignity, and connection at the centre of aged care and is addressing barriers that older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have shared with me,” Ms Kelly added.
Over two days, participants will share experiences and solutions across key areas including dementia care, aged care navigation, and systemic redesign. The Yarning Circle aims to foster courage, connection, and collective action in the sector.
The Elder Care Support Program is funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care and delivered by NACCHO in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations nationwide.
