NSW committment to closing the gap recognised
The AMA (NSW) commends the NSW Government and State Opposition for committing to a positive step towards closing the gap after the signing of the NSW Close the Gap Statement of Intent yesterday.
AMA (NSW) President Dr Michael Steiner said it recognised the importance of closing the gap and occurred within the Parliamentary Chamber during a sitting - a first for any State or Territory and effectively recorded in Hansard.
“This shows a firm commitment from the NSW Government and Opposition towards closing the gap to achieve health status equality and life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians by the year 2030,” Dr Steiner said.
Dr Steiner said this was an important step since Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have the poorest health of any group of people living in Australia.
“Over the years medical advances have brought improvements to the health of Australians, yet Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have not shared these gains equally.
“The 10-17 year life expectancy gap is unacceptable. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people deserve access to quality medical services where and when they need them.
“We encourage NSW doctors to join in the close the gap efforts to ensure that by 2030 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children born in Australia have the same opportunities as other Australian children to live long, happy and healthy lives,” Dr Steiner said.
Dr Steiner said he was pleased both the Government and Opposition stood united on such an important issue.
Media Contact: Tanzeem Parkar (02) 9439 8822/ 0419 402 955
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