At Ability Assist, we are committed to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with respect, understanding, and cultural humility. We recognise the ongoing strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and their deep connection to family, culture, and Country.

Across all our services — including disability supports, Out of Home Care, and Targeted Care Packages — we strive to deliver care that is culturally safe, inclusive, and responsive.

Our work is grounded in key principles and reforms that support self-determination, cultural connection, and community voice. We align our practice with:

• The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle (ATSICPP)
• The Wungurilwil Gapgapduir Roadmap for Reform
• Evaluation Readiness Toolkit
• Partnership Audit Tools and Training Manuals

These tools guide our teams to listen, reflect, and act in ways that uphold the rights, choices, and identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We take a range of meaningful steps to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities:

• Respectfully inviting participants to share if they identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
• Working closely with families, extended kin, and community networks when requested
• Supporting cultural connection through tailored care and support plans
• Displaying a Statement of Traditional Owners in our workplaces and therapeutic residential homes
• Sharing information about culturally significant events and ensuring respectful observance
• Ensuring communication processes are culturally appropriate and participant-led
• Using evidence-based resources that are Aboriginal-led or approved
• Maintaining strong networks with local Aboriginal organisations and community leaders

We are proud to work in partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, including:

• Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA)
• Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS)
• Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services
• Girraway Ganyi Consultancy

These collaborations help us strengthen cultural integrity, improve outcomes, and ensure the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are central to service delivery.

Cultural safety is not a checklist — it’s a continuous journey. At Ability Assist, we are committed to:

• Reflecting on our practices with humility and care
• Learning from Aboriginal communities, staff, and partners
• Supporting each individual’s cultural, spiritual, and community identity
• Championing Aboriginal leadership, voice, and self-determination

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we work and live, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Together, we’re building partnerships grounded in trust, respect, and a shared vision for a more inclusive future.