Wilim Berrbang (Aboriginal Health Unit)

Western Health acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of all the lands and waterways on which our staff, volunteers, consumers and caregivers come together. As we work, learn and grow, we pay our deep respects to the Elders and Traditional Custodians past, present and emerging of the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung, Boon Wurrung, Bunurong and Wadawurrung Countries of the greater Kulin nation.

The name Wilim Berrbang, provided by the Wurundjeri Land Council, means “Place of Connection” in Woi wurrung language. Wilim Berrbang offers cultural support and assistance to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that attend Western Health, and aims to:

• Ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are aware of, and have access to, all Western Health services.
• Guide and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to navigate the hospital setting.
• Ensure that Western Health is culturally sensitive, safe and welcoming to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Wilim Berrbang provides support across a wide range of units and specialty areas, including:

• the Emergency Department
• maternity (Galinjera and Koori Maternity Service)
• inpatient wards
• mental health
• drug and alcohol services.

Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers (AHLOs)

Wilim Berrbang includes Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers (AHLOs) who can:

• provide emotional, social and cultural support to you and your family while you are an inpatient of the hospital
• support you with your rights and responsibilities
• help you to participate in decisions about your care
• provide information about hospital services
• attend appointments if you would like their support
• help with basic material aid e.g. emergency clothing, car parking costs
• help with referrals to Aboriginal and other community services
• help you prepare to go home.

Koori Maternity Service

The Koori Maternity Service AHLO works alongside Western Health staff to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their families attending maternity clinics (including Galinjera) through pregnancy, labour and birth and the first 8 weeks after the baby is born.

Galinjera Maternity Program

Galinjera means “to come together and connect with love”. Galinjera is a dedicated service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families having a baby. The team consists of 4 midwives, 2 obstetricians and a social worker providing culturally safe services to you and your family.

At Western Health, your identity is important to us. We ask every patient if they are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin. By answering this question, you help us plan for the right services, so that we can provide the best possible patient care. If you choose not to answer the question, you will continue to be provided with the best quality healthcare available.

All inpatient referrals should come through EMR.

Place/Role: Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer (AHLO)

Phone: (03) 8345 0952

Place/Role: Koori Maternity Services and Galinjera AHLO

Phone: (03) 8345 0949

Place/Role: Manager of Aboriginal Health, Policy and Planning

Phone: (03) 8345 0951

Email: [email protected]