Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience higher rates of cancer and are more likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
A Voice gives the Traditional Owners of this Country a voice to be heard and considered, with the aspiration of informing decisions that reduce health disparities and improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Cancer disproportionately affects First Nations people in Victoria. Aboriginal Victorians are twice as likely to be diagnosed with cancer and three times as likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal Victorians.
To address this disparity, Cancer Council Victoria has for many years worked with organisations like the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) within a framework of self-determination to support the development and delivery of high-quality care in a culturally appropriate way to Aboriginal Victorians.
“As part of our commitment to reconciliation and to closing the gap on health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Cancer Council Victoria supports The Voice” - Todd Harper AM, Cancer Council Victoria CEO
Cancer Council Victoria believes the Referendum provides an important opportunity to advance reconciliation and the involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in improving their health and cancer outcomes.
*Pictured: Aunty Marg. Photography: Bri Hammond. Artist: Dixon Patten Jnr - Yorta Yorta and Gunnai.