This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, ‘All In’, calls on all Australians to take shared responsibility for advancing reconciliation and improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is reaffirming its commitment to reconciliation through its ongoing partnership with the Cultural Educators and Cultural Mentors Network (CECM).
CECM chair Professor Marlene Drysdale, who received an ACRRM Distinguished Service Award in 2025, says reconciliation depends on shared commitment, listening and learning.
“Our work with ACRRM helps Rural Generalists build the understanding and confidence needed to provide culturally safe care throughout their careers,” Professor Drysdale says.
“Cultural Educators and Cultural Mentors bring community knowledge, lived experience and local perspectives that cannot be learned from textbooks alone. “Those relationships help Rural Generalist doctors better understand the people and communities they care for.
“National Reconciliation Week is an important opportunity to recognise these partnerships, but improving First Nations health outcomes requires an ongoing commitment to listening, learning and walking alongside communities with respect.”
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says reconciliation must lead to meaningful change in
“Reconciliation is not symbolic — it requires sustained action, accountability and genuine partnership,” Dr Martin says.
“ACRRM has a responsibility to ensure Rural Generalists are equipped to provide culturally safe care and to work respectfully alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
“Our partnership with the CECM Network strengthens the way cultural knowledge and lived experience are embedded throughout Rural Generalist training and education.
“We also acknowledge the important contribution of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association, Joint College Training Services and College training partners, who continue to guide and strengthen culturally safe healthcare and medical education.”