The Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration Framework and Implementation Plan was launched today in Meanjin (Brisbane) on the lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, setting a 10-year roadmap to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, cultural strength, and best practices into Australia’s mental health system.

Led by Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia (Gayaa Dhuwi), the Framework and Implementation Plan provides a strategic approach to achieving the highest standard of social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB), mental health, and suicide prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The document was developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, mental health professionals, and community stakeholders, ensuring a culturally safe, responsive, and self-determined mental health system.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities continue to experience significant challenges in mental health and suicide prevention, shaped by cultural, historical, and social determinant factors,” said Professor Tom Calma AO, human rights advocate and Patron of Gayaa Dhuwi.

“This document marks a significant step in our ongoing journey to improve the social and emotional wellbeing, mental health, and suicide prevention outcomes for our people. It stands as a testament to our collective commitment to honouring the rich cultural heritage, wisdom, and resilience of our communities.” Added Professor Calma AO.

The Framework and Implementation Plan aligns with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, particularly target 14: Significant and sustained reduction in suicide of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people towards zero, reinforcing commitments from all levels of government to work in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“Our people deserve to live long, happy lives with strong mental health and wellbeing, this plan provides a clear path forward to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can access the care and support we need—when, where, and how we need it.” said Professor Helen Milroy AM, Australia’s first Aboriginal psychiatrist and Chair of Gayaa Dhuwi.

The Framework focuses on five key themes:

• Cultural strength
• Best practice
• Best evidence
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander presence
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership & influence

Ms Rachel Fishlock, CEO of Gayaa Dhuwi, stressed the significance of Indigenous-led solutions.

“For too long, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices have been sidelined in the mental health space. This framework will work to ensure our leadership is at the heart of decision-making, service design, and policy implementation. It is a pathway to lasting, meaningful change.” said Ms Fishlock.

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Gayaa Dhuwi reminds the public and media outlets of the importance of responsible and culturally respectful reporting when it comes to issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This includes adhering to the Good Yarn Guidelines and ensuring that crisis support services are promoted effectively.

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24/7 crisis helpline services available to the community include:

• 13 YARN (139276) – a dedicated support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Brother to Brother crisis line (1800 435 799) – providing support for men
• Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) – for young people in need of support

For further information, and resources, or to access support services, please visit www.gayaadhuwi.org.au

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About Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia

Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia is the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing, mental health, and suicide prevention. As a community-controlled organisation, it is governed and controlled by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experts and peak bodies, working to promote collective excellence in mental health care.

Media Contact:
Ethan French, 0481207814 ethan.french@gayaadhuwi.org.au

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