Culture is an important component of identity for all. To ensure that services provided are appropriate, it is important to develop working relationships that embrace what is important to the individual and affects their wellbeing, within the context of their culture and community.
There are many sources of health policy devised by Aboriginal people that can be useful guides for nurses. The Community Controlled Health Sector has been established for over 40 years and consists of individual health services supported by state and national affiliates. The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is a key starting point for nurses (http://www.naccho.org.au/).
The information on the NACCHO website reflects the diverse experiences and ways of living of Aboriginal people. The site provides access to published research and articles written by community members or undertaken in collaboration, while maintaining Aboriginal community control over the use and presentation of data. Research includes information on harm minimisation and health promotion strategies that are suitable for guiding collaboration between mainstream services and the Aboriginal Community Controlled sector. More specific, local information may be obtained by reviewing local Aboriginal services websites.