Driving equity in genomics

28 January 2025
Call for collaboration in groundbreaking research
The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), in partnership with ALIGN, Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI), is leading a groundbreaking initiative to improve genomic care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Indigenous Genomic Health Equity project aims to create a more equitable genomic healthcare system – one that’s accessible, culturally safe, and Community centred. By analysing gaps in health equity, the project paves the way for systemic change in healthcare delivery that prioritises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.
We need your support
Now, VACCHO is calling on the ALIGN community to help.
If you’re an Indigenous Community member with lived experience of genomic care, or an academic, clinician, or healthcare provider who works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in genomics – and you’d like to refer patients to participate – we want to hear from you.
Your contributions can help shape a more inclusive and impactful future for genomic healthcare.
‘This project is about understanding the wins and challenges in accessing genomic services,’ said Sara Alden, Strategic Project Lead at VACCHO. ‘We’re committed to identifying barriers, that can lead to actionable recommendations, to make genomic care safer and fairer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.’
How to get involved:
Community input is central to the project’s success. Participating is easy – sessions can be done online or in person, and all responses remain confidential.
Your stories will help shape real, meaningful change.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Sara Alden, Strategic Project Lead at saraa@vaccho.org.
Together, let’s create a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices lead the way in genomic healthcare.