A welcoming new space for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community has opened at Monash Medical Centre.
The relocated Aboriginal Health and Engagement Office includes a lounge – featuring Aboriginal artwork, couches, a kitchenette, tables and chairs – where our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and staff can ‘take a breath’ and gather to have a ‘yarn’.
‘It is a space that our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community can visit, feel safe, sit down have a cup of tea, relax and chat to our team,’ said Chief Aboriginal Health Adviser, Dan Carter.
Expansive floor to ceiling windows offer views out over the Aboriginal Healing Garden just a few steps away.
‘The space is so colourful, filled with natural light, and also culturally safe with the wonderful artwork. I think our patients, visitors, and staff will really enjoy the dedicated area,’ said Aboriginal Health Promotion Officer, Emily Williams.
The office is centrally located, making it easily accessible for patients and families attending Monash Medical Centre and adjoining Monash Children’s Hospital.
‘Before we had this space, our Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers would generally have to either meet on the ward at the bedside or in the cafe. The lounge offers more privacy to families when they want to talk about what is going on in their lives, what their needs are and how we can meet them,’ Mr Carter said.
The Aboriginal Health team work in a space off the lounge. The team’s location in a bustling, patient-focused section of the hospital has increased their visibility and prominence.
‘With this dedicated space our staff have been recognised by the hospital as an important unit within the hospital,’ said Operations Director of Aboriginal Health, Sarah Ong.
The space is designed to foster a sense of belonging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and employees.
‘There is a real sense of accomplishment and pride to see the project from conception to fruition,’ said Ms Ong.
