While many Indigenous children thrive within strong cultural networks, it’s hard to ignore the large health differences that still exist between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are more likely to experience barriers to healthcare, poorer health outcomes, and social disadvantage. Schools, healthcare providers and community organisations are increasingly working together to turn this around and create culturally safe environments that support Indigenous children physically, emotionally, socially and academically. By strengthening these partnerships and listening to Indigenous voices, Australia can help improve outcomes for future generations.

For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, health is holistic. It includes physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual wellbeing, alongside strong family and community connections. The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) describes health as including the social, emotional and cultural wellbeing of the whole community. This understanding is essential when supporting Indigenous children in schools and communities.

Children who feel connected to culture, language and Country often experience stronger wellbeing outcomes and a greater sense of identity. Programs that incorporate Indigenous perspectives, Elders, storytelling and cultural activities can help children feel valued and supported. Although we have seen many changes and improvements over the years, there’s still health challenges that need to be addressed.

1. Chronic Health Conditions
Indigenous children experience higher rates of several chronic health conditions, including asthma, diabetes, rheumatic heart disease and obesity.

According to Closing the Gap, many of these are linked to social situations, including housing insecurity, poverty, food access and healthcare availability.

Schools can support children with chronic conditions by ensuring staff understand care plans, medication requirements and emergency procedures. Nurses, Aboriginal health workers, and local healthcare providers can also assist schools in delivering coordinated care.

2. Ear and Hearing Health
Hearing issues are a big concern for Indigenous children, particularly in rural and remote communities. Otitis media, commonly known as a middle ear infection, can affect speech, learning and classroom performance if left untreated.

According to the National Indigenous Australian Agency, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experience some of the highest rates of otitis media in the world. Poor hearing can sometimes be mistaken for behavioural difficulties or disengagement at school.

3. Mental Health and Social Wellbeing
Mental health struggles for Indigenous children can be linked to many different things, including racism, family stress, grief, trauma and disadvantage. The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet says it’s important for mental health support to respect culture and understand how connection to family, community and Country can help children heal and feel supported.

Schools can also play a big role by creating safe and welcoming environments, offering mentoring programs and including cultural activities and support. Programs led by Indigenous communities are often the most successful because they are designed around what local children and families actually need. For Indigenous children, schools can either become a source of inclusion and empowerment or a place where disadvantage is reinforced.

Access to nutritious food can also be challenging for some families. School breakfast and lunch programs can help, while also improving concentration and classroom participation.

The NSW Department of Education Aboriginal Education Policy encourages schools to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal families and communities. Simple but meaningful actions may include:

• Engaging local Elders and community leaders
• Celebrating Indigenous events and achievements
• Including Indigenous histories and perspectives across subjects
• Supporting Indigenous languages and storytelling
• Providing cultural competency training for staff

Early childhood is a critical period for long-term health and development. Early intervention programs can identify concerns before they become more serious and provide families with support as soon as possible.

Areas where early intervention can make a significant difference include:

• Speech and language delays
• Hearing problems
• Developmental concerns
• Mental health difficulties
• Nutrition and growth
• School readiness

Many Indigenous children living in rural and remote Australia experience additional barriers to healthcare and education access. These challenges can include limited access to specialists, long travel distances, higher food costs, housing overcrowding and more. Telehealth services have improved access in some regions, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, digital access gaps still exist in many remote communities.

Supporting Indigenous children’s health requires long-term commitment, collaboration and respect for Indigenous knowledge and leadership. While healthcare access is important, health outcomes are also shaped by education, housing, cultural identity, social inclusion and connection to community.

Schools and local organisations have enormous potential to create environments where Indigenous children feel safe and respected. Programs that are designed and led alongside Indigenous communities are often the most successful because they reflect local strengths, needs and cultural values.

Australia has made progress, but more is needed. Continued investment in culturally safe healthcare, community-controlled services, early intervention, and inclusive education will be critical in helping Indigenous children achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes for generations to come.