Dr Rose Whitau1, Ms Soraya Daniels2, Shikiara Stone2
1Grounded Impact, Wadandi Boodja, Australia, 2Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC, South Hedland, Australia
Biography:
Bio to come
Aim:
This presentation showcases the Nyiyaparli Health and Wellbeing Project’s first phase, focusing on identifying the barriers and challenges Nyiyaparli communities face in managing kidney disease and the development of co-designed, culturally safe solutions to address these issues.
Background:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant health challenge for Nyiyaparli communities, driven by limited dialysis services and systemic barriers in healthcare. The Nyiyaparli Health and Wellbeing Project, led by Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (KNAC) and Grounded Impact, seeks to address these challenges and promote culturally safe healthcare for Nyiyaparli people in the Pilbara and Perth.
Methods:
The project employed Indigenous methodologies, conducting multiple phases of yarning circles, consultations, and co-design workshops with Nyiyaparli members, healthcare providers, and kidney health experts across Perth, Hedland, Karratha, and Newman.
Results:
Key barriers identified include limited dialysis capacity in the Pilbara, cultural safety issues, and the deep spiritual, cultural, and emotional distress caused by displacement for treatment. Nyiyaparli-driven solutions include increasing local dialysis services, culturally appropriate wraparound support, and improved kidney health education. The formation of the Nyiyaparli Health and Wellbeing Committee in July 2025 is the first step in implementing these solutions.
Conclusions:
The Nyiyaparli Health and Wellbeing Project highlights the importance of community-driven solutions in addressing systemic healthcare challenges. Through identifying barriers and co-designing practical solutions, the project lays the foundation for sustainable improvements in kidney care, with the Nyiyaparli Health and Wellbeing Committee guiding future actions.