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Yesterday the Watarrka Foundation recognised the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year’s theme “Building Forward Together: Ending Persistent Poverty, Respecting all People and our Planet" focuses on the impacts COVID-19 has had on poorer communities across the globe. The theme reflects the needs of our time, with the events of the past few months highlighting the importance of cohesion, communication and working together towards a common cause.

As stated by the UN:

The impact of COVID-19 has been the hardest on the people who – for generations – have lacked equal access to public goods and services, quality healthcare systems and strong social protection, making it harder to cope with any shocks. In addition, the measures imposed to limit the spread of the pandemic often further pushed them into poverty – the informal economy which enables many people in poverty to survive was virtually shut down in many countries."

For the better part of two years Australia has had the privileged of living mostly COVID-19 free which has saved the lives and livelihoods of many. However, 2021 has proved that we are not immune to outbreaks, including those in First Nations communities. In recognising the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2021 theme, this month we are highlighting solutions and initiatives currently underway in Australia designed to support First Nations communities through this time.

1. Priority Vaccination

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are a priority group for the COVID-19 vaccination rollout. For ease of access, vaccines have been made available at local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service centres, Commonwealth vaccinations clinics, participating general practices, community pharmacies and state/territory clinics.

For more on vaccination and how to book, read our past article here.

2. Financial Support

Additional income support has been made available through Services Australia for all individuals, households and businesses affected by COVID-19. This financial support has been particularly imperative to the livelihoods of those already experiencing financial stress or unemployment.

Learn more here: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/subjects/getting-help-during-coronav irus-covid-19/if-you-need-payment

3. Education

The Australian Government Department of Health have developed a range of resources designed to educate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities about the importance of vaccination, what to expect when getting a vaccination and where to book. These resources include information booklets, posters, informative videos, audio files, social media campaigns and translated materials.

Explore them here: https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines/indigenous https://www.niaa.gov.au/covid-1

The Watarrka Foundation are pleased to see the collective efforts of Australia coming into fruition and hope the support provided to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities assists them towards a positive and healthy future.

For more on The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, visit: https://www.un.org/development/desa/socialperspectiveondevelopment/international-day-f or-the-eradication-of-poverty-homepage/2021-2.html

To support the Foundation and our projects within the Northern Territory, make a donation at www.givenow.com.au/watarrkafoundation