Across the world, Indigenous peoples experience disproportionately poorer health outcomes compared with non-Indigenous populations. These disparities are not rooted in culture itself, but in colonisation, dispossession, intergenerational trauma, marginalisation, and structural exclusion.
This chapter examines life expectancy gaps, chronic disease burden, mental health, suicide, injury, infectious diseases, and access to care among Indigenous communities. It considers how social determinants - land rights, cultural continuity, education, employment, and political representation - intersect with health.
Crucially, the chapter highlights the importance of self-determination, culturally grounded healthcare, community-led initiatives, and respectful partnership. Indigenous health is framed not only through disadvantage, but through strength, continuity, and resilience.
Public health must move from paternalism to partnership.
Key Takeaways
Indigenous populations often experience significant health inequities.
Colonisation and historical trauma remain central determinants of health.
Chronic disease, injury, and mental health burdens are elevated in many contexts.
Cultural continuity and community leadership are protective factors.
Self-determination and Indigenous-led health services improve outcomes.
Structural reform is required to close health gaps.
Respectful partnership is foundational to progress.
