The 2024 Closing the Gap report revealed a stark truth: 47% of the health gap for Aboriginal people, including life expectancy rates, is related to institutional racism, interpersonal racism, and intergenerational trauma. These numbers make one thing clear: cultural safety isn't optional.

But what does cultural safety actually mean for community service organisations, and how do we achieve it?

In this episode, Nicky sits down with Becky Garrett, Operations Manager at SAHSSI and recent recipient of the 2025 Innovation Community Service Award for her work on cultural safety. Becky shares the transformative work happening at her organisation, and the lessons every service provider needs to hear.

Key insights include:

• Cultural safety as lived experience

• It's about the subjective experience of Aboriginal staff and clients, not just checkboxes on a form

• Moving beyond the RAP

• Despite having a Reconciliation Action Plan, SAHSSI knew something more was needed. Their cultural audit revealed critical gaps and sparked organization-wide buy-in

• Walking the talk: SAHSSI created two dedicated Cultural Lead positions on Dharawal and Yuin Countries, properly remunerating staff for cultural work rather than expecting it on top of regular duties

• The power of listening; As Becky says: "To really understand the impact of colonisation, you have to sit and listen really carefully". Despite not being an Aboriginal Controlled Organisation, SAHSSI took ownership: "These are our clients. We have to get this right." This conversation is essential listening for any leader ready to move from good intentions to genuine change.

Links and Resources:

• SAHSSI website

• Closing the Gap Report

• AIHW Closing the Gap Findings

• The National Anti Racism Framework:

• Information about Reconciliation Action Plans

• 2025 Community Services Awards