National Faculty of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander Health
A vital step in ‘closing the gap’
13 February 2008
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) would like to congratulate the Rudd Government on its landmark apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Today is a historic day in the history of Australia. The RACGP welcomes this commitment from the Government in recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who have long suffered the impacts of government policy and in particular the removal of children,” said Dr Vasantha Preetham, RACGP President.
“We believe this apology is an important first step in the healing process and are committed to working with the Government and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other organisations to ensure appropriate actions follow this important first step.
“As reflected in our position statement, the RACGP recognises that improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is one of Australia’s highest health priorities.
“The RACGP supports the ‘Close the Gap’ campaign and strongly urges the Rudd Government to fund this campaign, which is aimed at closing the 17-year gap in life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
“Again, our sincere congratulations to the Government for its leadership on this issue, which will allow the healing process to begin.”
Read the college’s position statement on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health at www.racgp.org.au/aboriginalhealthunit
Related links
Apology to stolen generations - questions and answers
The RACGP is not responsible for and does not necessarily endorse content on external sites.