closing the Gap (2008)

The WHO has information about the global strategy to close the health gap in a
generation. In Australia Close the Gap focuses on health and life expectancy
between ATSI and non-ATSI Australians. The national plan aims to achieve equality
for ATSI health by 2030.
Closing the Gap utilizes the Ottawa Charter action areas in the promotion of health
towards ATSI people in order to close the health gap.
Build healthy public policy
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) committed to close the gap in health
inequities between ATSI and non-ATSI people and the Close the Gap Statement of
Intent was signed in 2008. This was in line with the WHO Closing the Gap in a
Generation policy. In order to close the gap, Australia established a national
indigenous representative body and provided funding to upskill the workforce to
meet the challenges of remote indigenous education. Measurable targets for equality
were also set.
Create supportive environments
To create supportive environments, Closing the Gap seeks to train health
professionals (especially ASI) to deliver primary health care and other services for
ATSI people. Closing the Gap seeks to ensure fresh healthy food is available for ATSI
people and are developing housing and waste supplies/removal systems to improve
housing quality. The federal Police have also recruited ATSI people and developed
training programs on policing in ATSI communities. They have also provided extra
teachers in remote areas.
Strengthen community actions
Closing the Gap strengthens community action by involving ATSI people and
community groups/elders in the panning at local and regional levels. Closing the Gap
also delivers culturally appropriate primary health services by Aboriginal Community
Controlled Health Services.
Develop personal skills
Closing the Gap seeks to increase ATSI education levels and provide primary health
care services through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services. Closing the
Gap also seeks to provide learning support and ensure health care is provided to
ATSI mothers, babies and children.
Reorient health services
Closing the Gap seeks to utilize primary health care to both prevent and promote
health in balance with curative services. It provides education through health
services and promotes healthy lifestyles, while trying to prevent chronic disease.
Closing the Gap also seeks to ensure ATSI communities have housing, water supplies
and system that support health equality.