First Nations care expert appointed to National Aged Care Advisory Council

The Federal Government has appointed Jody Currie, a Yugambeh woman with years of experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) health and aged care, to the National Aged Care Advisory Council. Jody has held several community and government sector board positions, including the former Aged Care Sector Committee, and has worked in senior roles at organisations such as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service Brisbane.

“A seat at the table means our voices are heard at the national level to drive and action the aged care reforms. It means our Elders ageing on Country are not a second thought, they are front and centre of the Government’s response to the Royal Commission’s recommendations. “I hope that our ways of caring for our Elders can also help mainstream Australia to understand the importance of stewardship of our Elders. Walking, working and learning together, we can strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged care and health services, and together care for our precious Elders,” she said.

Malarndirri McCarthy, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, said Jody’s appointment would go some way to addressing barriers to aged care for First Nations people.

“To address service gaps and improve access to care, we must include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices in the design, discussion and implementation of aged care reforms. “Jody brings a wealth of aged care and health knowledge and experience including roles in government, not-for-profit and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services. Her appointment is a significant step in the right direction for bringing meaningful change to aged care services for older First Nations people,” she said.

The Government this month announced a $221 million investment into expanding ATSI access to home and residential care.