The sixth annual National Day of Recognition for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.
On 7 August 2026 , the National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners (NAATSIHWP) invites the health sector and all Australians to help celebrate the achievements and evolution of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Health Practitioner workforce.
The workforce occupies a critical and necessary place within Australia’s health landscape. As the only culturally based health workforce underpinned by national training and registration in Australia, they bridge a gap in our healthcare system by focusing on the delivery of quality Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care.
The theme for this year’s National Day of Recognition ‘ Many Paths, Many Ways ’ recognises the diverse journeys that bring people into the professions, the unique paths they follow throughout their careers, and the many ways they make a difference in their communities
'Many Paths' acknowledges that our members come into the workforce through a wide range of personal, cultural, educational, and professional experiences. It recognises the unique stories, motivations, and circumstances that shape each person’s journey.
'Many Ways' focuses on how workforce members continue to build the profession and create opportunities through innovation, advocacy, and everyday practice. Together, the theme celebrates not only where people come from, but also the many different ways they improve health and wellbeing outcomes.
This National Day of Recognition, we would like you to join NAATSIHWP in celebrating the strength, stories and leadership of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners.
On 7 August 2026 , organisations, practices and members across the country are invited to come together, host local celebrations and honour the many ways this vital workforce continues to strengthen health and wellbeing for communities.
The heart of this year’s campaign will be a virtual panel discussion at 11:30 am , facilitated by NAATSIHWP Chair David Follent and featuring Louise Gilbey and Josiah Little. Louise and Josiah are the first AHP credentialled diabetes educators. Together, they will share their journeys into diabetes education, reflecting on the needs they saw in community, the steps they took to build their skills, and the impact they are making through culturally safe care. Click here for more information and to register for the event.
Members are also invited to add their voice to the celebration by sharing a short reflection on the theme ‘Many Paths, Many Ways’. We are proud of the work you do and would love it if you could provide a short 30-to-50-word response to one or both questions below:
- You all had different paths to start and grow your careers as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners. What path led, inspired or motivated you into the professions?
- We make a difference in our communities in lots of ways. Would you be willing to share with others a short story that shows the work you undertake?
These reflections will be transformed into social media tiles and shared in the lead-up to the event, highlighting the personal journeys, everyday contributions and collective strength of the workforce.
Media Release
Media Release - National Day of Recognition 2026
Media Release - National Day of Recognition 2026 - How to Celebrate
Media Release - National Day of Recognition 2026 - Celebrate the Day
