Stroke Foundation has marked a significant new milestone in its reconciliation journey by launching its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), as part of the organisation's commitment to improve stroke outcomes for First Nations peoples.
Stroke Foundation elected to launch the Innovate RAP during this year's National Reconciliation Week Bridging Now to Next, which calls on all Australians to learn from the past, act in the present, and work towards a better future through its commitment to ongoing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.
The Innovate RAP focuses on four key areas; Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance and follows on the progress of Stroke Foundation's Reflect RAP completed in September 2023.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says the launch of the Innovate RAP is an important step forward for the organisation, particularly while disparities in stroke health outcomes for First Nations remain stark.
"We recognise the strengths, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in driving positive health outcomes, and our Innovate RAP is a step forward in walking alongside communities to support culturally safe, community-led stroke prevention and recovery initiatives," Dr Murphy said.
"Stronger Together 2025". Artwork by Carissa Paglino. Digital Illustration.
Compared to other Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are up to three times more likely to experience a stroke and are nearly twice more likely to die from a stroke. First Nations peoples are also more likely to experience stroke at a younger age.
"Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face a disproportionately high burden of stroke compared to other Australians and also face additional systemic barriers in receiving care and adequate supports throughout their recovery," Dr Murphy said.
Courtney Rubie, a proud Wiradjuri woman, member of Stroke Foundation's RAP Working Group and a survivor of stroke, says she is deeply encouraged by the genuine respect, commitment, and willingness to listen, to learn and to act meaningfully that the Stroke Foundation has shown throughout its Reconciliation Action Plan journey. She is excited to see the Foundation take larger strides with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and leaders in the spirit of building relationships and partnerships for meaningful change.
"Stroke Foundation is guided by the understanding that our vision of an Australia with fewer strokes, better outcomes, and support and care for all can only be achieved when we listen to, learn from, and work alongside First Nations peoples," Dr Murphy added.
