Bandok Tati dancers at First Nations Health Unit opening
First Nations Health Unit team and Tim Richardson
Aunty Marl and Steve Portelli outside the First Nations Health Unit
Ribbon cutting ceremony
Board Chair of the RMH Ms Linda Bardo Nicholls AO
Bandok Tati, Wurundjeri mens dance group perform at the opening of the RMH First Nations Health Unit1/5

The Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) is proud to announce the official opening of the First Nations Health Unit.

Manager of the First Nations Health Unit at the RMH, Steve Portelli says this new space represents a significant step towards closing the gap in healthcare for First Nations people.

“Our team is dedicated to providing a holistic approach to healthcare that considers the cultural needs of our patients,” said Steve. “This new space will allow us to do that in a meaningful way.”

The RMH’s space will provide improved access to care and support for our First Nations patients, while also offering a safe and culturally appropriate space while at hospital.

“As a team, our focus is really on breaking down barriers and building bridges.

“Every positive experience which we can help facilitate will really have a ripple effect out in the wider community,” said Steve.

By working together with colleagues across the RMH and with groups in the wider community, the team is focused on building wider awareness of cultural sensitivities when engaging with First Nations patients.

“At the end of the day, we want to ensure that everyone receives the care they need, and by working together we can all play our part in ‘closing the gap,’” added Steve.

The RMH launched our First Nations Health unit space. This is a significant step towards closing the healthcare gap for First Nations people, as the space provides improved access to care and support while also offering a safe and culturally appropriate environment.

Mobile Stroke Unit with Ambulance Victoria paramedic and the RMH Stroke team
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