1 April 2026: Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia welcomes the announcement of the Senate Inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, recognising the significant impacts racism continues to have on social and emotional wellbeing and mental health.
Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy requested the Inquiry following recent incidents of racism and violence affecting First Nations communities.
Karen Bates, a Barkindji woman and Executive Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Programs, a social enterprise within MHFA Australia, says racism remains a critical driver of health inequity.
“Racism is not only a social justice issue – it is a significant determinant of social and emotional wellbeing and mental health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Unless it is addressed at both a system and community level, we will continue to see disproportionate levels of distress and suicide among First Nations peoples.”
Ms Bates says effective responses must be led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations, with cultural leadership central to early intervention, prevention, self-determination and safety.
“We recognise the leadership of organisations such as NACCHO, Thirrili and Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia, whose Gayaa Dhuwi Declaration Framework highlights the direct link between racism and wellbeing outcomes.”
Ms Bates adds that strengthening early intervention at the community level is critical, with practical, evidence-based responses needed to support the mental health and social and emotional wellbeing impacts of racism and violence where they are felt.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHFA training is one solution to strengthening early intervention, promoting resilience, and improve culturally informed responses in communities that guide people to appropriate supports.
“A national network of up to 300 First Nations Instructors is delivering this training across Australia, equipping communities to support mental health and social and emotional wellbeing and respond to a range of challenges, including the impacts of racism and violence. This locally led approach supports sustainable, community-driven outcomes.”
Gus Clelland, CEO of MHFA International, said addressing racism requires collective effort. “Addressing racism requires a shared commitment across governments, organisations and communities, alongside the leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations,” Mr Clelland notes.
“Supported through fundraising, MHFA Australia will train up to 20 new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHFA instructors in 2026, and we’re calling on governments, organisations and communities to partner with us to expand these programs and deliver real change for First Nations peoples.”
About MHFA Australia
MHFA Australia is the Australian arm of MHFA International, a global health promotion charity dedicated to the provision of evidence-based and informed programs. Backed by 25 years of evidence and impact, MHFA Australia aims to increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and help people develop the skills to encourage people to seek professional help.
About the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHFA Program
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHFA Program is culturally informed and led, working with communities and organisations across Australia to strengthen understanding of social and emotional wellbeing and mental health and support culturally informed responses. Across almost two decades, the program has trained 70,000 Australians in culturally responsive mental health first aid, equipping communities to recognise, understand, and respond to mental health problems or crises.
