Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety framework

This framework helps the department and mainstream Victorian health, human and community services to create culturally safe environments, services and workplaces.

The framework is the first phase of a continuous quality improvement approach.

The framework is an important commitment in the department's Aboriginal employment strategy 2016–2021, and in Korin Korin Balit-Djak: Aboriginal health, wellbeing and safety strategic plan 2017–2027. It will support Korin Korin Balit-Djak to achieve the government's vision of self-determining, healthy and safe Aboriginal communities.

About the framework

The cultural safety framework is for:

  • every person and every mainstream organisation to take responsibility and work together to create culturally safe services and workplaces
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and clients, who have a right to culturally safe workplaces and services.

The framework helps the department and mainstream health and community services to strengthen their cultural safety by participating in a process of continuous learning and practice improvement.

The model is designed to guide the department and mainstream organisations as they develop strategies, policies, practices and workplace cultures that address unconscious bias, discrimination and racism.

Important messages

The framework outlines several important principles that will support individuals and organisations as they reflect and continue their understanding and improving cultural safety in the workplace.

The framework is in 2 parts, with Part 2 containing a reflective tool for individuals and organisations to use.

With a shared commitment from the department, mainstream services and Aboriginal organisations, we can together make a positive impact on the health, wellbeing and safety of Aboriginal Victorians.

Cultural safety is the responsibility of all of us – it is everyone’s business.