Gulpa gaka/Welcome

The Department of Rural Health acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the unceded land on which we work, learn, and live on – the Yorta Yorta Nation. We recognise the unique place held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the original owners and custodians of the lands and waterways across the Australian continent, with histories of continuous connection dating back more than 60,000 years.

We pay respect to Elders past, present and future, and acknowledge the importance of Indigenous knowledge in the Academy. As a community of researchers, teachers, professional staff and students, we are privileged to work and learn every day with Indigenous colleagues and partners.

About the conference

The Department of Rural Health will be hosting our 10th Ngar-wu Wanyarra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Conference on Wednesday 15 October 2025 on Yorta Yorta Country the University of Melbourne, Department of Rural Health, 49 Graham Street Shepparton VIC.

Now in its 10th year, the Ngar-wu Wanyarra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Conference is an important and inspiring event which continues to grow in strength and spirit each year as we come together to celebrate, listen and learn. Meaning to ‘listen and act’ in Yorta Yorta language – the Ngar-wu Wanyarra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander conference recognises First Nation voices and knowledge, sharing information on key topics in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health and wellbeing.

Read a summary of our 2024 conference here!