AIDA Programs Update – September 2025

Cultural Safety

Dr Simone Raye facilitating the AFL Cultural Safety workshop

In September, AIDA marked a significant milestone with the delivery of its 50th workshop, a proud achievement in supporting participants to strengthen cultural safety and improve service delivery to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

Recently, AIDA successfully delivered its sixth workshop for the Australian Football League’s (AFL) AHPRA-registered clinicians, as well as two pre-workshop community yarns in Toowoomba and Ipswich as part of the Darling Down West Mortan Primary Health Network project. This unique model incorporates the Communities perspective of culturally safe clinical care.

AIDA has delivered 16 cultural safety workshops so far in 2025, with seven more scheduled before year-end. Stay tuned for the dates of our workshops in 2026.



CSTPP

The Cancer Services Training Placement Program (CSTPP) is a three-year initiative developed by the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) in partnership with Cancer Australia to address the underrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in cancer specialties. This program aims to create sustainable, culturally safe pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical students to explore and enter cancer care careers.

The CSTPP will provide up to 20 culturally safe placements over two years, offering students direct exposure to cancer care. The program includes scholarships of $7,500 per student, travel support, and mentorship to reduce financial barriers and provide guidance. AIDA in partnership with Cancer Australia are currently liaising with universities seeking interested medical students and cancer services across Australia for potential host sites. If you would like further information, please reach out to AIDA’s Programs team.

Leaders in Indigenous Medical Education (LIME)

AIDA participated in the Indigenous Health Conference hosted by the ANU Rural Medicine Society. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage with medical students, staff, and key stakeholders. Several students expressed interest in AIDA’s work and in becoming Associate Members. The conversations highlighted the importance of AIDA’s role in supporting Indigenous medical students and promoting culturally safe medical education.

Specialist Trainee Student Support (STSP)

AIDA is delighted to invite all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander non-GP specialists in training to register for this residential face to face workshop from 24 to 26 November in Sydney / Gadigal Country. The workshop will provide you with culturally safe opportunity to connect with your peers and engage in education and professional development to support your success on your training journey. All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors in training (non-GP) are welcome including AIDA members and non-members. The 1.5 day workshop is fully funded. Funding will cover a rich program of education, accommodation, and meals.