$30 million boost Indigenous-led health research

Media release - Minister Wyatt

The Morrison Government continues to invest in Indigenous-led health research to drive better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with $30.5 million secured for the National Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research—also known as the Lowitja Institute.

The Lowitja Institute is supporting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through quality, high impact research and knowledge translation by prioritising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the work of Lowitja encompasses all areas that contribute to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including social and cultural determinants.

“Improving health and social equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is one of Australia’s key heath challenges,” Minister Hunt said. “Research is the drive to deliver safe, quality and culturally appropriate health care.”

“In 2020-21, of the 20 projects supported by Lowitja Institute, 100% were led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers.”

“Through an extensive and comprehensive research program, the Lowitja Institute will continue it’s critical work is identifying opportunities to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s health.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ken Wyatt AM MP, said Indigenous-led research would continue to be an important part of Closing the Gap.

“The institute has built extensive networks with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health researchers, peak bodies, health organisations and communities to drive a comprehensive, collaborative health research program,” Minister Wyatt said.

“Our Government continues to supercharge world class health and medical research because it will contribute to providing all Australians, no matter where they live and what their circumstances, with the best opportunity to live long, healthy lives.”

This funding is a further demonstration of the Morrison Government’s commitment to priorities under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and the newly released Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2021-2031.