Reconciliation Action Plan

Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan

At CoMHWA we represent all mental health consumers. In order to do this, it is essential that we take action to achieve justice, equity and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. CoMHWA recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people disproportionately experience mental health distress, trauma and suicidality. If we are not representing the lived experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, then we are not representing all lived experience consumers.

CoMHWA understands that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lived experience recognises the effects of ongoing negative historical impacts and/or specific events on the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It encompasses the cultural, spiritual, physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of the individual, family or community.

We are committed to engaging in reconciliation by contributing to a reduction in the large gap between the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and the broader Australian community, by advocating for holistic and culturally appropriate support. We are committed to advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to have their voices, perspectives and preferences reflected in the services and programs that they engage with and that aim to serve them.

CoMHWA’s hope for reconciliation is to create an environment grounded in mutual respect, strong principles of social justice and empowerment and advocacy support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing mental health challenges.

Download our Reflect RAP here.

Our RAP Artwork

Lived Experiences by Chynna Chadderton

This Artwork symbolises what lived experiences are and one’s journey in finding a space where you can express and overcome the things in life that have made you feel alone and lost. Proving that with a little bit of kindness and respect from others, you can be in an inclusive environment that is empowering and connected to community.
The symbol in the centre of the painting symbolises community and a safe space for anyone to come to when feeling unwell. It encompasses the values and principles of the CoMHWA community, allowing them to express themselves with no judgement and guiding them on a journey where they will have support from those who have had similar or shared experiences, seeing them as their peers. This allows them to be in a space with trust, equality, respect and understanding, allowing them to identify what is their truest and happier selves.

About the Artist
Chynna Chadderton is a proud Yamatji-Malgana woman from Gutharragulda (Shark Bay, Western Australia) and self-taught Aboriginal artist. She has always had a passion for art and craft since she was a little girl. Painting is a form of stress relief and has also been a healing tool to help manage depression due to childhood trauma. Painting allows her to shut out the outside world and calm her mind. She paints because it is the only way she can express herself in a way that others can understand and find beautiful.