Driving Conversations on Rural Health Equity and Social Justice

The Broken Hill University Department of Rural Health and the University of Sydney recently hosted a successful pre-conference workshop in Adelaide as part of the National Rural Health Conference. The event welcomed 25 participants and provided an opportunity for academics, researchers and health professionals to engage in important conversations about rural health equity and social justice.

Titled Positioning Rural Health Equity and Social Justice in Policy, Education and Practice, the workshop brought together colleagues from across the sector to examine the role of policy, workforce development, education and community partnerships in improving health outcomes for rural Australians.

The afternoon featured keynote presentations from Professor Deb Jones, Professor Brendan McCormack and Dr Kate Harrison Brennan. Topics included community-led health initiatives, people-centred care, human belonging, health workforce education and policy approaches that can contribute to more equitable access and outcomes in rural and remote communities.

Case study presentations highlighted the practical application of these concepts. Catherine Stanford presented Building Better Futures, outlining the positive impact of long-standing local partnerships on child health and development. Danielle White and Heath Pillen shared insights into the Multidisciplinary Longitudinal Integrated Program and Anabranch Framework, demonstrating how rural-focused education models can help develop a health workforce that is both rural literate and committed to health equity.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for discussion, collaboration and knowledge sharing, while also showcasing the significant contribution BHUDRH continues to make to rural health research, education and workforce development.