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We are proud to present Monash Health’s Manamiiyt-dha Aboriginal Health Plan 2026-2031, an integrated roadmap that strengthens how we work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to deliver culturally safe care.
Our new plan sets out a clear pathway and the actions we will take to continue closing the gap and improving life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The plan brings together and builds on the work of our previous Reconciliation Action Plan and Cultural Safety Plan, as well as the Monash Health Strategy 2026-2031, Care, Reimagined.
‘I see this plan as an important step in continuing to strengthen how we walk alongside our community, and ensuring First Nations’ voices are head, respected and reflected in the care that we provide,’ says Dan Carter, our Chief Aboriginal Health Advisor and a proud Ngarrindjeri/Wergaia man.
About Manamiiyt-dha
Manamiiyt-dha (pronounced: MUH-nuh-mee-dthuh) means ‘moving towards health’.
It is the Bunurong-language name Elders and Knowledge Holders chose for this Plan, with the formal support of the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation.
The word ‘manamiiyt’ carries a richness of meaning: ‘good’, ‘right’, ‘well’, and ‘healthy’. In naming this Plan, Bunurong Elders and Knowledge Holders gave expression to something deeper than a title. The name reflects a commitment to doing things the right way, in a healthy way, and to moving together towards a stronger, healthier community.
That journey is what this new plan is about.
The vision
Our vision is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to experience equitable health outcomes, culturally safe care and services that are shaped in partnership with community.
Improving health outcomes is a collective effort. It is shaped by the actions of our clinicians, leaders, teams and community partners.
This plan ensures that Aboriginal health remains a priority across Monash Health, guiding how we plan, deliver and improve care.
What’s in the plan
Improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples requires more than just clinical care; it requires culturally safe systems, strong partnerships and a commitment to self-determination. The Manamiiyt-dha Aboriginal Health Plan 2026-2031 reflects the voices, knowledge and priorities of Aboriginal communities, Elders, organisations and our people.
The plan outlines 40 key actions across 4 priority areas:
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Leadership and governance
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Community-defined health priorities
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Employment and procurement
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Recognition and celebration
Our Manamiiyt-dha Aboriginal Health Plan 2026-31 serves as both a roadmap for progress in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and engagement, but a celebration of the journey and achievements so far.
