Background
In Australia, measuring First Nations people’s SEWB has mostly happened through the use of standard instruments developed for the general population. These instruments are based on concepts of mental health and wellbeing that are different to First Nations concepts of SEWB. Such instruments are not always considered culturally appropriate for use with First Nations people if they have not been culturally adapted.
Over the years, there have been attempts at cultural adaptation of standard instruments for use with First Nations populations, to varying degrees of success. Some of these adapted instruments have been and continue to be used. There have also been several new culturally appropriate instruments developed specifically for use with First Nations people to measure SEWB. Many of these instruments have been developed by First Nations people and/or in consultation with First Nations communities.
Social and Emotional Wellbeing Gathering
In March 2021 the first SEWB Gathering took place in Perth with First Nations peak bodies, community organisations, leaders, experts, and front-line workers. The aim was to create a national SEWB blueprint for the future. Five recommendations were agreed to in that first SEWB Gathering:
- To have regular SEWB Gatherings.
- Gaya Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia (GDPSA) to renew and implement the National Strategic Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Social and Emotional Wellbeing 2017–2023.
- Transforming Indigenous Mental Health and Wellbeing (TIMHB) and National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) to establish a SEWB Network and Clearing House.
- An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consortium will be established to develop SEWB measurements. This measurement consortium will be hosted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The principle of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Governance must inform this work at every level.
- A healing consortium to lead advocacy for healing (strong spirit) models and centres across the country.
As a result of the fourth recommendation and to drive progress in SEWB measurement, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Wellbeing Measurement Consortium was established in 2021. It is supported by the AIHW.