For example, it took on board the fact that many Aboriginal people live in urban settings and that their health needs have been neglected in the research agenda. They identified gaps that often exist between the health care deliverers, the policy makers and the researchers, developing strategies to address them. Their plan was to involve all parties in all the research decisions, including defining the most important issues. They are committed to research being of practical use and benefit to the community. Collaboration has been the key to the Koori Health Unit's vision.
Collaboration sounds simple and an obvious way forward.
Yet in a society that is fiercely competitive, it is not always easy to achieve. With demonstrated good will and with participants of such high quality, this Unit signals a turning point in indigenous health in Australia. Many of these graduates are working in indigenous health as teachers, consultants, in public health, and as clinicians. Many are working in their own communities. Many are making significant inputs to the development of new courses in university medical schools.