First Nations
Healthcare disparities continue to affect First Nations communities, with significant gaps in maternal and infant health outcomes compared to the general population. These disparities include higher rates of preterm birth, maternal complications, and limited access to culturally appropriate and safe healthcare services.
At WIRF, we are committed to addressing these inequities through dedicated research that focuses on the unique health needs of First Nations women, babies, and families.
By working closely with First Nations communities, we aim to create culturally relevant solutions that improve health outcomes and ensure equitable access to quality care. Through collaboration, innovation, and respect for cultural perspectives, WIRF strives to reduce health disparities and improve the wellbeing of First Nations communities across Australia.
Lyfe Languages in the Spotlight
The Lyfe Languages project, in partnership with WIRF, aims to reduce the language and cultural barrier between patients and healthcare providers. The pioneering Pilbara-born medical and scientific platform was built by and for Indigenous people to enable healthcare providers to consult with patients and families in their first language, in a culturally appropriate way. The initiative aims to transform healthcare access and delivery, and improve health outcomes, by helping to close the healthcare communication gap. WIRF is proud to be working with the Lyfe Languages team on this innovative program that pairs the world’s oldest continuous culture with the world’s newest technologies to help close the gap for First Nations patients.
First Nations projects
Enable us to fund innovative research and vital support services
What’s new at WIRF
Stay up to date on our latest research breakthroughs, community initiatives, events and ways to get involved.
Boronia Gala Day raises $32,800 to support women and babies in crisis through WIRF
WIRF has received a generous $32,800 donation from this year’s Boronia Pre-release Centre for Women’s Gala Day, helping strengthen vital support programs for King Edward Memorial Hospital patients facing crisis.
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From premature baby to paediatrician: Jamie’s journey comes full circle
Thirty-three years ago, Jamie Hullick was welcomed into this world six weeks early. He spent his first few weeks of life in an incubator in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Royal Darwin Hospital. Today, he walks those same corridors - this time in scrubs, caring for premature and sick babies as a paediatrician.
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