Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) envisions a world where every child receives the best healthcare, no matter when, no matter what. Alongside our dedicated Movement of Many, we are committed to reconciliation and to helping close the gap to achieve equality in health and life expectancy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort.  

At SCHF, we are proud to have formalised our commitment to reconciliation by establishing our first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This plan will guide us in discovering new opportunities and deepening our understanding and appreciation for the histories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including the role healthcare entities have played in the past. 

Kristina Keneally, SCHF CEO, says: 

“Our commitment to our Reflect RAP is the right and logical next step in our journey dedicated to improving healthcare and services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in NSW and around the country.” 

“Building on the foundation we already have in place across the organisation, our first RAP confirms our unwavering commitment to expanding our contribution towards reconciliation.” 

Every year SCHF pledges unrestricted donations received during National Reconciliation Week to support Aboriginal Health priorities identified by the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.

Since we launched this initiative in 2019, we have been able to dedicate an additional $500,000 to research, community programs, traineeships and culturally safe spaces across the Network, on top of our annual fundraising support for the work of the SCHN Aboriginal Health Directorate. This year, we are again pledging unrestricted funds raised during National Reconciliation Week (27 May and 3 June) to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families have access to the best possible care.  

This year, we are once again committing unspecified funds raised during National Reconciliation Week directly to the AHU – ensuring all children have access to the best possible care, when and where they need it.  

“Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation is committed to the health and wellbeing of all children, and we know that our actions today will impact generations to come,” Kristina says. 

“To that end, we are determined to drive meaningful action that can make a difference to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families during National Reconciliation Week and beyond.” 

SCHF staff talk about what reconciliation means to them and how we can make Australia a brighter,
more inclusive place for all.

The Aboriginal Health Unit provides support and assistance to children and their families and communities in a culturally safe manner. 

To support their work, you can donate by visiting schf.org.au or calling 1800 770 122. 

Header image: "In Unity We Heal." artwork by David Williams at Gilimbaa