MORE than 180 people came together at a recent forum to discuss how the local Aboriginal community could better benefit from existing health care services in the catchment – and even consider career opportunities in these.

The Aboriginal Community and Youth Health Forum took centre stage at the Basil Hanna Theatre in the Stan and Jean Perron Child Advocacy Centre, with members of the Aboriginal community, respected Elders, health staff and high school students all gathering for a day of meaningful dialogue.

Organised by the East Metropolitan Health Service (EMHS) in partnership with the Swan Aboriginal Network, the forum began with a warm Welcome to Country by Aunty Vanessa, followed by a traditional dance performance that set the tone for a day grounded in culture and connection.

EMHS Area Director of Allied Health, Simon Rosser, spoke about the importance of listening to community voices, especially younger people.

“Your voices are central to shaping the way we deliver care,” Mr Rosser said.

“Your insights help us ensure our health system is more inclusive, culturally safer, and more responsive to the needs of the Aboriginal community.”

The forum proved a valuable platform from which to assure attendees that the hospitals and health services which make up EMHS were committed to providing culturally safe and inclusive health care, with several EMHS Aboriginal staff sharing their experiences.

EMHS Aboriginal health area director Francine Eades, reflected on her 36 years in health, describing her current role as “one of the most satisfying of my career – getting to work across the service and help Aboriginal people”.

Ms Eades also spoke about the value of Aboriginal advisory committees, annual reviews of Aboriginal health data, and the importance of increasing Aboriginal health practitioners in hospitals.

“When Aboriginal people are part of the hospital workforce, it changes the experience for patients. It makes care more culturally safe,” she said.

Royal Perth Hospital (RPH) mental health nurse Phyllis Spencer spoke about her experiences in nursing and the importance of building trust with patients through culturally safe care.

EMHS Aboriginal acute care coordination team members Stafford Eades and Shannon Theil shared how their work supports patients and families through complex health journeys.

RPH dietician Max Romaine reflected on his entry into the health field and the importance of supporting others to pursue similar pathways.

“When our mob see us in these roles, it shows what’s possible, and it helps the next generation believe they can get there too,” Mr Romaine said.

For staff like Dana Bonson-Ugle, the forum was a chance to speak directly with Aboriginal students about their future pathways.

“It’s always inspiring to meet Aboriginal students, hear about their interests, and see how activities like netball and AFL keep our mob active, connected, and healthy.”

Aboriginal health and wellbeing team member Shaila Newbery also valued the opportunity to connect with families.

“It was really special to connect with students and parents who were curious about my traineeship, sharing my story felt like planting seeds for the next generation of Aboriginal health workers.”

A highlight from the event was the insightful yarning circles, where students shared their experiences and aspirations for the future with community members and other attendees.