I first joined NSW Health in 1993. At that time, HIV/AIDS was a major issue in terms of prevention, treatment, education and community attitudes. One of the things that struck me at the time was the way that diverse communities and the health system (both public and non-government) worked together to address this great challenge. We learnt an important lesson then, which is still true today: effective prevention, treatment and education is best delivered by a health workforce that is part of, and reflects, the community it is serving.

The questions are simple. When I go to a hospital or health service, or listen to messages about my health - is there anyone delivering these services and messages who understands me? Do any of the people responsible for my health or my treatment have my experiences, understand my culture, or even look like me? And if they don’t, will they listen and try to understand what makes me feel safe? These are important questions for people of all genders, ages, abilities, family backgrounds, religious and cultural beliefs.

The answers, however, are more complex. We have come a long way, but we have a lot more to do. At the heart of our work in NSW Health is our statement of commitment: we welcome people from diverse backgrounds and we are committed to having a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Everyone has a role to play. Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging is not something that happens to you. It is something that we all create: by our actions, omissions, values and attitudes. NSW Health’s commitment can be seen at Diversity Inclusion Belonging. Most important, however, is kindness and respect, both in the way we treat each other and the way we treat our patients and communities.

I would like to acknowledge the importance of the Mardi Gras and the parade to our LGBTQI+ staff throughout NSW Health. The theme for Mardi Gras 2021 is “We Rise”. To quote from the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras: When we rise together through love, compassion, respect and understanding, we will all arrive to a better place.

Deborah Frew
Director, Workforce Strategy and Culture, Ministry of Health

Current as at: Wednesday 3 March 2021
Contact page owner: Strategic Communications and Engagement