Cultural Advice
Aboriginal Peoples are advised the Library Collection contains images, voices and names of deceased people in physical and online resources.
The Library recognises the significance of the traditional cultural knowledges contained within its Collection. The Library acknowledge some materials contain language that may not reflect current attitudes, was published without consent or recognition, or, is offensive. These materials reflect the views of the authors and/or the period in which they were produced and do not represent the views of the Library.
National Close the Gap Day
Thursday Mar 20 2025
National Close the Gap Day is an annual event that raises awareness of the health and life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Aboriginal Australians. Observed on the third Thursday of March, it is a time for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together in support of health equity and social justice. The initiative is part of the broader Close the Gap campaign, which calls for sustainable, community-led solutions to address health inequalities.
Despite some progress, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples still face significant disparities in health outcomes, including lower life expectancy, higher rates of preventable diseases, and reduced access to healthcare. National Close the Gap Day serves as a reminder that these inequalities are not inevitable—they stem from systemic factors such as social and economic disadvantage, discrimination, and inadequate healthcare services. The campaign emphasises the need for policies and programs that are culturally safe, community-driven, and adequately funded to close this persistent gap.
UniSA demonstrates its commitment to reconciliation and health equity through its Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025, which supports Aboriginal engagement, cultural awareness, and community partnerships. By supporting Aboriginal leadership and advocating for systemic change, individuals and institutions can contribute to a future where all Australians have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives. As the campaign states, real change comes when we listen to and work alongside Aboriginal communities to close the gap together.
Attend:
- Wednesday 19 March, 12:30-3:00pm, Hoj Plaza, City West campus: Closing the Gap, A Conversation – UniSA National Reconciliation Working Group
Read:
- Closing the Gap and the Coalition of Peaks – Close the Gap Campaign
- Always Was, Always Will Be: The Campaign for Justice and Recognition Continues – Thomas Mayo
- The Bibliography page in the Library’s Aboriginal Content in Undergraduate Programs provides a list of resources categorised by UniSA Academic Units and disciplines that highlight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture, knowledge and perspectives.
Watch:
- Live stream 10:00am ACDT: National Close the Gap Day 2025 Report Launch
- PM Speaks on the Closing the Gap Statement – Australian Parliament House Streaming Portal.
