The difference in life expectancy between Aboriginal people in NSW and the general population is approximately 7-9 years (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2017). Poor health, including chronic diseases and nutrition are identified as the main reason why Aboriginal people live shorter lives. Preventable chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and related cancers are believed to make up 80% of the life expectancy difference between Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal people in Australia.
There is a strong relationship between socio-economic inequalities and the health gap, including housing, disposition of lands, education, employment, racism and social inequalities. Health programs and policies should be designed to address these contributing factors, which can make a positive contribution to both the health and social determinants for Aboriginal peoples.
The NSW Government is working in partnership with the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW (AH&MRC) to close the health gap and improve outcomes for Aboriginal peoples. The NSW Aboriginal Health Plan 2013-2023 is guiding a service-delivery partnership model that is imbedded in self-determination.