Report outlines progress made towards 'Closing the gap' in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians

The Indigenous chronic disease package annual progress report 2009-10 has outlined progress towards Closing the gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.  The report, which focuses on tacking chronic disease in Indigenous Australian communities detailed the achievements thus far, including: 294 new positions added to the Indigenous Health Workforce across Australia; the completion of 29,799 Indigenous adult health checks (a 26% increase on 2008-09); 138,055 Indigenous Australians using chronic disease management plans (35% increase on 2008-09); the employment of the first National Coordinator (Dr Tom Calma) who will lead and mentor the Tackling Indigenous Smoking Workforce; and the expansion of specialised health care for rural and remote areas.  Minister for Indigenous Health, Mr Warren Snowdon said the report is 'testament' to the progress being made towards Indigenous Australian health outcomes.

Contacts

Australian Government
The Hon Warren Snowdon
Minister for Indigenous Health
Minister's office
Ph: (02) 6277 7820

Links

• View information: Closing the gap, tackling Indigenous chronic disease
• View media release: Early Successes in Efforts to ‘Close the Gap’
• View website: Australian Government, Department of Health and Ageing