National Close the Gap Day (NCTGD) is a national day of action to pledge support for achieving Indigenous health equality by 2030.

This Mental Health March we would like to invite the UNSW community to engage in culture, hear from Indigenous health experts and learn how everyone can take meaningful action in support of achieving health equality for First Nations Peoples.

National Close the Gap Day at UNSW

We are delighted to have two Traditional Owners of Bidjigal Country where UNSW stands join us to mark this important day. At 12pm Aunty Barbara Simms will Welcome us to Country followed by a Smoking Ceremony from Uncle Glen Timbery. This will take place in the Goldstein Courtyard (next to the 'Six Figure Group' Art Installation)

Lunch will be provided before guests take their seats in Colombo Theatre B to hear from our expert panel.

Can't make the event in person?

In order to give all guests the best experience we will not livestream the event. However we will record the Panel Q&A event (please note the Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country will not be recorded). Once we have edited it into a high quality recording we will send a copy to all guests. If you cannot make it in person please register for the event and select online option when selecting your ticket. You should receive the recording within 7 days of the event. If you have a question for our panel you can enter that in the checkout form and we will ask it for you during the event.

What is Close The Gap?

The Close the Gap framework, first launched in 2008 and updated in 2020, aims to address Indigenous disadvantages in the areas of child mortality, early childhood education, school attendance, reading and numeracy, year 12 or equivalent attainment and employment and life expectancy. 14 years on progress has been made however health Inequalities remain unacceptably high.

National Close the Gap Day is a time when we can celebrate the resilience, innovation and success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and demand further meaningful action from our Governments. With continued support from the public, we can ensure the Australian Government continues to work with Indigenous communities, commit additional funding and invest in real partnerships.

(source: antar.org.au)

What is Mental Health March?

Mental Health March is created by UNSW Health Promotions Unit and aims to encourage the UNSW community to engage in conversations surrounding the often challenging topics of mental health and wellbeing. The team offer workshops, resources and mental health services to all UNSW Students and Staff.

Need some support?

If you or someone you know needs some support with their mental health, you can contact the Psychology and Wellness team via Mental Health Connect. Nura Gili also have a dedicated Student Support team offering support to Indigenous Students.