The Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association…

The Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association (AIPA) has launched a new program aimed at strengthening the Indigenous psychology workforce in Australia. The AIPA Culturally Responsive Internship and Supervision Support Project, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, will provide culturally responsive internship placements and supervision support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander provisional psychologists.

The program, launched at the University of Western Australia, is the first of its kind in Australia and marks an important milestone for Indigenous psychology in the country. It aims to improve access to culturally safe mental health care and strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander psychology workforce.

The launch event brought together Elders, psychology students, academics, government representatives, and community members to celebrate the initiative. AIPA Chairperson Professor Victoria Hovane noted that the program is centered around the ancient wisdom of Indigenous ancestors and aims to build resilience, identity, and ways of being in the world for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Professor Hovane expressed gratitude for the funding and support from the Department of Health and Ageing, as well as the Australian Psychological Society. She stated, “AIPA is incredibly grateful for the trust shown in us by the Department of Health and Ageing, through the funding of the AIPA Culturally Responsive Internship & Supervision Support Program. This represents the culmination of AIPA’s long-term advocacy around growing the Indigenous Psychology workforce.”

The event also featured remarks from AIPA’s Patron and Matriarch Professor Pat Dudgeon AM, who spoke about the importance of strengthening pathways into the profession. Psychology student James Hill reflected on his own experiences of tertiary education and cultural load, highlighting the value of culturally responsive supervision and supportive pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

The project is expected to build leadership, expand the pool of culturally responsive supervisors, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Indigenous psychology across Australia. As AIPA Co-Vice Chairperson Shannon McNeair said in response to James Hill’s remarks, “We see you,” acknowledging the importance of recognizing and supporting the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of Indigenous psychology, recognizing that a stronger Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander psychology workforce is essential to improving culturally safe care and supporting better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Article and image source: nit.com.au