National Close the Gap Day on Thursday, 18 March highlights the campaign aiming to close the health and life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians within a generation. The gap refers to the vast health and life-expectation inequality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This inequality includes:
- shorter life expectancy
- higher rates of infant mortality
- poorer health
- and lower levels of education and employment
The Closing the Gap strategy has resulted in some improvements, but national statistics indicate there’s still a long way to go.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health is a key priority for SWSPHN. We are working with our community to close the gap by supporting our community to live healthier and longer lives through prevention and better management of chronic diseases.
Find out more: