STAUNCH Research Project

About the Research Project

This Indigenous-led research aims to drive lasting structural reform that achieves health equity by empowering First Nations self-governance and re-negotiated relationships with non-Indigenous governments – placing First Nations as the source of policy solutions. The Stronger Together As Unified Nations for Community-led Health (STAUNCH) research project seeks to unshackle the colonial constraints faced by Australian First Nations by:

• strengthening their capacity for self-governance
• preparing policymakers to adopt new relationship-based ways of working
• supporting holistic health and community wellbeing, as defined and monitored by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled Health (ATSICCH) sector

STAUNCH promotes genuine partnerships that respect Indigenous leadership and priorities in health policy and practice. 

Impact

With the rejection of the Voice to Parliament, processes of Indigenous Nation Building are more important than ever to enable First Nation communities to organise and prepare for renegotiated power relationships with government. Governments also need to prepare for new ways of working with communities, to deeply listen and operate more holistically and inclusively. STAUNCH melds nation building and health in all policy approaches to realise self-determined community health and wellbeing plans.

Partners

• University of Sydney