Everybody is at risk of contracting COVID-19 so you need to protect yourself and others. This is particularly important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians over the age of 50 who have existing health conditions or chronic illness. Here are some resources:
- Department of Health Resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Sean Choolburra has some tips to stay safe at home, during this time.
- Ensuring cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (Word)
- Physical distancing activities and tips for families with children (Word)
Getting vaccinated
All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 and older are eligible to get a vaccine.
COVID-19 Vaccination information
Other resources
Map of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and medical services
Use this interactive map to find an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Health Service near you.
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation
The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is the national authority on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care. See their website for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander–focused news, information, links and contact.
National Indigenous Australians Agency
The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) is committed to improving the lives of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Visit their website for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander–focused news, information, links and contacts.
Impacts on Ceremony and Sorry Business
Culture and ceremony, such as large gatherings for Sorry Business, are very important to our communities. However, with restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings, we need to look at ways to do this differently to protect our communities from the spread of the virus. Talk to your Elders, family or land council about safe ways to undertake Sorry Business during these times.
Remote community restrictions
From Friday 10 July 2020, all designated areas have been withdrawn from these restrictions, meaning the Determination has been repealed and ceases to exist from this date.
The decision to lift the Determination has been informed by the Remote framework – conditions for easing remote are travel restrictions, which was announced by the Prime Minister on the 15 May 2020.
Some remote communities may still have local restrictions in place for who can enter and leave the community.