VAADA is pleased to announce the appointment of Aunty Suzanne Nelson, a proud Yorta Yorta and Wiradjuri woman, as Co-Chair of our newly established Aboriginal Advisory Committee. VAADA’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee will support two-way learning across the organisation and by virtue of being a member led peak body, the Victorian AOD sector.
The Aboriginal Advisory Committee will oversee the development and implementation of our first Aboriginal Engagement Plan, which will guide VAADA on improvements to cultural safety across the AOD sector and how we can continue to support First Peoples’ quest for truth, justice and self-determination in the area of health.
Aunty Suzanne brings more than five decades of experience from the health sector and Aboriginal community to this role, with deep understanding and extensive expertise in AOD and Mental Health. She is passionate about advancing a holistic understanding of health, as defined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This perspective emphasises the interconnectedness of spiritual, physical, emotional, and cultural wellbeing. Aunty Suzanne is a strong advocate for building meaningful partnerships with key stakeholders who need to be accessible, appropriate and acceptable to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
From VAADA Board Member and Aboriginal Advisory Committee Co-Chair Craig Holloway.
“It’s an absolute pleasure and honour to be walking alongside Aunty Suzanne Nelson in leading this important work for VAADA. Like many others, Aunt has always led with passion and commitment in all that she has done and continues to do. Having cultural overlay and guidance from a Respected Elder will ensure VAADA not only talks the talk, but more importantly walks the walk”.
Appointment of additional Aboriginal community representatives to VAADA’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee will be confirmed soon.