Communicating positively - A guide to appropriate Aboriginal terminology

A useful guide from NSW Health that explores the correct terminology to describe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as well as terms associated with Aboriginal communities and community organisations.

'Communicating Positively' is a guide for NSW Health staff which provides background information and guidance on the use of appropriate words and language when working with Aboriginal people and communities, and when developing policy and programs to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people.

It is also a very useful resource for workers in other government and non-government agencies. Please note that this resource is specific to NSW aboriginal communities.

NSW Health sought input from the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW, Area Managers of Aboriginal Health and aboriginal staff to ensure that accurate and non-offensive language, an essential component of Aboriginal cultural respect and communication training, was used throughout the guide.

The Terminology Guide starts on page 9 and lists a number of commonly used terms under four major categories:

• Collective names used to describe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Terms associated with Aboriginal communities and community organisations
• Other terms
• Terms not to be used.

A description of each term, as well as its recommended usage and issues for consideration, is provided in the remaining part of the document (pages 9-30) with additional reading and useful websites listed on page 31.

Follow this link to Communicating Positively - A guide to appropriate Aboriginal terminology (opens in new browser window)

For further information

Contact

:

NSW Department of Health

WWW

:

http://www.health.nsw.gov.au