The land, sea and waters of the Brisbane south region is home to 13% of Queensland First Nations peoples and is the traditional countries of Yuggera (Ugarapul, Jagera); Turrbal; Quandamooka / Minjerribah / Mulgumpin (Nunukal, Ngughi and Gorenpul) and Yugambeh (Mununjahlii, Gugingin, Bollogin, Wangerriburra, Minjungbal, Birinburra, Migunberri and Kombumerri) First Nations (and sub-clans).  

Brisbane South PHN’s vision is to deliver the best possible health and wellbeing for every person in the Brisbane south region, especially to those who are most vulnerable. 

Today Brisbane South PHN hosted the second annual First Nations Primary Health Forum, bringing together First Nations organisations, Elders and community members to discuss the health needs and concerns of their communities. As an outcome of the forum, Brisbane South PHN will undertake a First Nations Regional Needs Assessment that will help to shape the health system for First Nations peoples in Brisbane south, supporting delivery of efficient and effective health services, and coordinated care.  

‘We believe that if we can closely engage, listen and advocate together, we can make a significant leap forward in addressing the health needs of First Nations peoples within our region’ said Nyaree Mewett, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Programs Manager, Brisbane South PHN.  

The forum facilitated a collaborative process between First Nations local communities and system partners that generated deep insight into First Nations health care in the region.  

Brisbane South PHN values community conversation and partnership as the cornerstones of better health for all. Our thanks to Tribal Experience, for their excellent traditional dancing, Welcome to Country speech, smoking ceremony and Didgeridoo show. Our thanks also to the attendees who so generously shared their insights, expertise and experience.