NAIDOC Week: Celebrating Culture, Connection and the Strength of First Nations Communities
- Shane Warren
- Jul 5
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE / AWARENESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
5th July 2026
During NAIDOC Week, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) proudly celebrates the rich cultures, histories, knowledge, and enduring contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to come together in respect to learn, to listen, and to recognise that the world's oldest continuing cultures continue to shape and strengthen our nation.
Culture is far more than heritage. It is identity. It is connection to Country, family, language, Elders, and community. These connections are powerful protective factors for mental health, resilience, and social and emotional wellbeing.
VMHPAA Chair Shane Warren said:
"One of the greatest lessons First Nations cultures teach us is that wellbeing is built through connection to Country, to family, to community, and to one another. These are principles that strengthen not only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, but all Australians." [Shane Warren]
NAIDOC Week also reminds us that reconciliation is not simply about acknowledging historyit is about walking together into the future with respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to equity.
As mental health practitioners, VMHPAA recognises the ongoing impacts of intergenerational trauma, racism, and social disadvantage experienced by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also recognise the extraordinary resilience, leadership, knowledge, and strength demonstrated by First Nations communities across Australia.
VMHPAA Secretary Susan Sandy said:
"Healing grows where people feel culturally safe, respected, and connected. When we honour culture, we honour identity and identity is fundamental to mental wellbeing. Every Australian has an opportunity to contribute to reconciliation through listening, learning, and building respectful relationships." [Susan Sandy]
Throughout NAIDOC Week, VMHPAA encourages Australians to:
Learn about the history and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Attend local NAIDOC Week events and celebrate First Nations achievements.
Listen to Indigenous voices and lived experiences.
Promote culturally safe and inclusive communities.
Recognise that reconciliation is strengthened through everyday actions.
Strong communities are built on respect.
Healthy communities are built on belonging.
This NAIDOC Week, let us celebrate the wisdom, resilience, and enduring contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recommit ourselves to walking together with respect, understanding, and hope.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
Philip Armstrong, CEO