No abstract

Issue addressed Evidence suggests that participation in a Chronic Disease Self‐Management (CDSM) program improves the health of clients. Many factors are known to influence participation in these programs for the broader Australian population. However, less is known about why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders choose to participate. This study identifies key factors that support or enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to participate in a CDSM program in an urban setting. Methods Twelve focus groups were undertaken with a total of 102 participants who were diagnosed with or at risk of chronic disease. These participants were recruited from the Work It Out program, a CDSM program comprising exercise and health education. The Work It Out program is specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and delivered by an Aboriginal led and community‐controlled organisation in South‐East and Central Queensland. The study received ethical clearance through the Behavioural and Social Sciences Ethical Review Committee at The University of Queensland (Approval Number 2011001283). Results Findings indicate that key features of program design based on a culturally responsive approach influences participation. The main features are as follows: providing easy access to the program; permitting flexibility in attendance; a group environment; the approach of program staff that prioritises relationship building; personalised and integrated care; communicating result regularly; and ensuring community ownership of the program. Conclusion These findings are useful to consider when designing a health program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Programs which are culturally responsive and include the design features identified in this study are more likely to increase participation amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. So What? Increasing participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in CDSM programs using the design features identified in the paper may contribute significantly in closing the health disparity gap.

Extractive industries have significant social, economic, and environmental impacts on the communities in which they operate; and, if well governed, the sector can contribute to sustainable local development. With this paper we analyze public sector dimensions of efforts to manage the development pressures associated with mining in Australia by examining the legislative and policy framework of various levels of government. We outline recent legislative trends and variations across jurisdictions. We also identify gaps and inadequacies in the regulatory framework and the implications of these with respect to emerging governance challenges and practices in mining-intensive regions of Australiaparticularly for local governments. We identify forms of networked governance in mining regions involving initiatives of and relationships between local governments, state governments, mining companies, and other stakeholders. These governance arrangements are characterized by (1) variety of institutions, (2) attention to mining-specific impacts, and (3) dispersal of resources, responsibilities, and authority.

No abstract

No abstract