VACCHO is proud to announce the launch of its Speak Out campaign, a bold new initiative encouraging Australians to make their vote count in the upcoming Federal election.

The campaign aims to inspire individuals to take a stand against the harmful racist rhetoric that is all too often seen in the media and reflected in certain government policies.

Running throughout April, the Speak Out campaign will be broadcast across the national Foxtel network, major free-to-air TV networks in Victoria, and on a variety of online and social media platforms.

At its heart, the campaign seeks to celebrate, embrace, and take pride in the rich, living culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It aims to foster understanding and unity across the country by inspiring all Australians to engage with and celebrate the oldest continuous culture in the world.

The campaign calls for collective action and strong leadership in shaping a future that values equity, inclusion, and respect for all.

“We are excited to launch this campaign at such a crucial time for Australia,” said VACCHO CEO, Dr. Jill Gallagher AO. “This election is an opportunity for all Australians to take a stand against division and to work together towards a future where everyone is treated with dignity, equity and respect.”

Dr. Gallagher said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people still face significant health and wellbeing gaps compared to non-Indigenous Australians. She also highlights that systemic racism deeply affects their access to healthcare and overall health outcomes, urging that this must change if we’re serious about closing the gap.

“Our campaign is about more than politics and the election. It’s about taking responsibility for the future we want to create,” Dr Gallagher said.

VACCHO encourages all Australians to share and engage with the campaign, reflect on the values that unite us, and make their voice heard when they hit the polls on 3 May.

For more information about the Speak Out campaign, visit vaccho.org.au/speakout and follow VACCHO on all social media platforms.