The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), in partnership with award-winning creative agency Think HQ, has launched a remarkable campaign designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to pursue careers in health and wellbeing.
At the heart of the campaign is a powerful reminder: “You have 65,000 years of experience. Start a career in Aboriginal health today.” This simple yet profound message emphasizes the strength, knowledge, and cultural depth that Aboriginal people already carry, making them uniquely suited for roles in the health sector.
Think HQ worked closely with Aboriginal stakeholders, health professionals, and community members to develop a campaign that resonates deeply. Through open “yarns”with Indigenous healthcare professionals like GPs, midwives, and wellbeing workers, the agency uncovered a vital insight: many Aboriginal people don’t realize that their lived experience is one of the most valuable qualifications for a career in healthcare.
To bring this message to life, the campaign features a series of compelling videos, including a hero film and four stories from inspiring Aboriginal healthcare professionals. Produced by a team of First Nations creators, led by Wiradjuri director Jack Steele, these films showcase the real-life impact that culturally sensitive and community-driven care can have.
Beyond the videos, the campaign includes posters, audio stories, and a dedicated online hub with resources and links to job opportunities. This hub not only answers the “how” of starting a career in health but also the “why”—highlighting the difference Aboriginal people can make in their communities through culturally informed care.
Abe Ropitini, VACCHO’s executive director of Population Health, praised the collaboration with Think HQ: “Combining cultural and creative expertise was key to translating our vision into a concept that truly speaks to our people.”
Lisa Gumbleton, group head of creative strategy at Think HQ, added, “Empathy is at the core of great care. This campaign aims to show that Aboriginal people already have the foundational skills needed to make a real difference in healthcare.”
Running until March 2025, this initiative is part of the Victoria Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing Workforce Strategy 2022–26, which seeks to create meaningful opportunities and build a workforce that reflects the strength of Aboriginal culture.
If you’re ready to make a difference, this is your call to action. Your cultural knowledge and lived experience are powerful tools to help heal and uplift communities. Explore the possibilities and start your journey in Aboriginal health today.