Aboriginal Support

GV Health acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which its many sites are located. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and celebrate the continuing culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We would also like to acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are receiving care in our services.

GV Health’s Aboriginal Liaison Officers provide emotional, social and cultural support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families.

Aboriginal Liaison Officers can support you with:

• Advocating for your needs
• Attend appointments with you
• Liaise with community services and facilitate some referrals
• Help you understand and plan your hospital discharge with the medical treating team
• Help you navigate the hospital service
• Work across the health service to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients receive culturally safe care

Aboriginal Liaison Officers are located in the Minya Barmah Room. The Minya Barmah Room is a place where you can come for chat, a cuppa or just to sit. It is a friendly place where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are welcome.

An Aboriginal Liaison Officer is available weekdays from 8:30am to 5pm. If you have any questions or would like to access this service, please ask a nursing staff member in your treatment unit or call (03) 5832 2322.

GV Health’s Mental Health Aboriginal Liaison Officer provides emotional, social and cultural support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families when they use the mental health services at GV Health.