Why do mob need to VACCINATE their young kids? Can we Hug and Kiss our family we haven’t seen for a while? What rules do we need to adhere too so as to keep us SAFE? These are some of the questions that we will ask The Victorian Chief Aboriginal Health Officer so tune in and hear from this amazing woman who has been home-schooling her own family while trying to keep mob safe within the Kulin Nation. Nicole McCartney is the Victorian Chief Aboriginal Health Officer at the Department of Health and Human Services. Nicole is a Yorta Yorta woman, from a long line of strong matriarchs and advocates for Aboriginal rights.
Nicole brings a perspective to Aboriginal health that is built on respect, empowerment and importantly, an approach that is strong in culture. Nicole works to break down structural barriers to ensure all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can experience health and wellbeing with a strong focus on collaboration, building enduring relationships with stakeholders and the Aboriginal community controlled sector. She holds a Science degree from Murdoch University and with significant experience with both State and Commonwealth governments, Nicole is highly skilled at navigating health policy and reform. Nicole has worked tirelessly to deliver a culturally safe COVID-19 health response for Aboriginal people in Victoria and is highly regarded by her peers at the Department of Health. As a proud mother of four wonderful children and a mad Tigers supporter, there is never a dull moment in Nicole’s day.