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International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples: Honouring Culture, Rights, Knowledge and Connection
MEDIA RELEASE / AWARENESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
9th August 2026
On the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, the Australian Association of Mental Health Practitioners (AAMHP) joins communities around the world in honouring the cultures, knowledge, rights and enduring contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
This day is an important reminder that Indigenous Peoples are not only custodians of rich cultural traditions, languages, histories and knowledge systems; they are also leaders in community, environmental care, healing, advocacy, education and social change. Across the world, Indigenous communities continue to demonstrate strength, resilience and wisdom grounded in deep connection to land, waters, culture, family and community.
AAMHP Chair Shane Warren said:
“Indigenous Peoples around the world have long understood that wellbeing is relational. It is shaped through connection to place, culture, family, community, language, spirituality and belonging. Modern mental health practice has much to learn from these holistic understandings of wellbeing, especially at a time when so many people are experiencing such as strong sense of disconnection.” [Shane Warren]
AAMHP recognises that Indigenous Peoples globally continue to face the impacts of colonisation, displacement, discrimination, intergenerational trauma and unequal access to services. These realities must be acknowledged honestly, while also recognising the leadership, strength and self-determination of Indigenous communities.
Mental health and wellbeing support must be culturally safe, community-led and grounded in respect. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, and for Indigenous Peoples globally, social and emotional wellbeing cannot be separated from culture, Country, kinship, identity and community.
AAMHP Secretary Susan Sandy said:
“When people are respected in their identity and connected to culture and community, wellbeing is strengthened. Listening to Indigenous voices is not symbolic; it is essential if we are serious about building systems of care that are safe, respectful and effective.” [Susan Sandy]
On this International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, AAMHP encourages all Australians to listen deeply, learn respectfully, recognise Indigenous rights, support community-led initiatives and honour the cultural knowledge that continues to strengthen families, communities and future generations.
Inclusion begins with respect. Healing begins with truth. Stronger communities are built when we value culture, protect dignity and walk together with understanding.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
Philip Armstrong, CEO
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