Allyship: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People leading culturally responsive OT practice
Tracks
Children and families (Paediatrics)
Occupational justice, human rights, equity, and social inclusion (General)
| Wednesday, June 24, 2026 |
| 10:40 AM - 11:05 AM |
| Mezzanine M3 |
Speaker
Dr Yolanda Fernandez
Occupational Therapist
Deadly Ears, Queensland Health
Allyship: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People leading culturally responsive OT practice
10:40 AM - 11:35 AMPresentation summary
Introduction: Allyship is a commitment to listen, learn and walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People; but what does allyship look like in occupational therapy practice? What steps can be taken to ensure services are culturally responsive? How can equity and inclusion in all spaces be advocated for? Learning objectives: Learn about practical examples and experiences of allyship in different contexts. Deepen self-reflection on roles and responsibilities in allyship, and the ongoing journey towards culturally responsive occupational therapy practice. Consider how established practices may perpetuate systemic injustices. Make a personal plan to strengthen allyship through specific actions post-conference. Approach for audience engagement: To set the scene, a panel of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous occupational therapists will share their experiences and examples of allyship in action, including challenges and enablers. A Cultural Lead will facilitate yarns with our panel and then open the floor for the audience to share their perspectives and questions. Through collective yarns, listening and shared stories, deeper reflections and connections will be forged. Relevance to occupational therapy practice: Allyship can grow through deep listening, self-reflection, genuine partnerships, advocacy and action. Occupational therapists are called to stand in solidarity and champion the voices and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues, clients, families and communities. As non-Indigenous allies, occupational therapists must uphold the profession’s core value of client, family and community-centred care through a strong commitment to culturally responsive occupational therapy practice.
Biography
Corrine is a proud Kuku Yalanjii, Wulgurukaba and South Sea Islander woman with 15 years’ experience delivering occupational therapy across diverse areas in Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is the Director Allied Health – First Nations Peoples within the Office of the Chief Allied Health Officer, Queensland Health.
William is a Barunggam man. Shaped by lived experience, community and family. He has years of experience working in Aboriginal Community Controlled health services. A social worker with experience in Forensic Mental Health and Community development. Always encouraging visibility, connection and reflection as core practice.
Jodie is an occupational therapist with cross-sector experience in health, education, and research. She is committed to systems change and improving outcomes for children and families, with a strong belief in community-led solutions. Jodie is the Inclusion and Equity Lead at Logan Together.
Yolanda has Spanish Galician heritage and brings a deep appreciation of culture, connection, and community to her work. Her PhD focused on community approaches that strengthen children’s participation and sense of belonging. As Deadly Ears Occupational Therapy Lead, Yolanda is committed to culturally responsive, relational and strengths-based practice.