First Nations Consultations For the Australian Human Rights Commission The inclusion of First Nations voices in the creation of health programs and services was another critical point. Participants suggested establishing health equity teams in all hospitals, akin to those in Queensland Health, and involving First Nations people in decision-making processes. They stressed the necessity of mandatory consultations with elders and community for all programs, services, and policies affecting First Nations people. One participant proposed, "Like the Voice, something set up to hold organisations accountable." Addressing the health needs of First Nations people facing racism and other forms of marginalisation requires targeted strategies. Participants called for increased funding for healthcare services in regional and rural areas, ensuring that services are adequately financed to support all marginalised groups, including those with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ communities. They also emphasised the need for a clear and accessible reporting process for incidents of racism. "The reporting process for racism needs to be clear and easy for mob to report racism," a participant stated. Furthermore, there was a call for the media to be held accountable for misinformation and for promoting positive health narratives. "Health research needs to be positive, stop writing papers and having a negative lens on mob," one participant remarked. Participants identified several critical components for developing an anti-racism framework. These include the active involvement of First Nations people throughout the entire process, collaboration with communities, and securing adequate funding. They stressed the importance of co-designing the framework with First Nations communities, using clear language, and implementing legislation to support the framework. "Co-design with mob," one participant emphasised, along with the need for "clear language" in communications. Building and maintaining strong relationships and adopting an open-minded approach that recognises the diversity of needs were also highlighted. Continuous consultation with all First Nations communities with no fixed end date for the framework's effectiveness was deemed essential. "Consult all mob, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities." one participant advised. Racism in healthcare has profound and far-reaching effects on individuals, healthcare providers, and health outcomes. For individuals, racism contributes to significant health disparities, including higher rates of chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, and lower life expectancy compared to non-First Nations patients. The psychological impacts of racism, such as diminished self-esteem and heightened stress, further exacerbate these health inequities. For healthcare providers, First Nations staff often face workplace discrimination, leading to job dissatisfaction, burnout, and difficulties in staff retention, which undermines efforts to develop a culturally safe, First Nations health workforce. Systemic racism creates barriers to accessing care and perpetuates health inequities. Participants highlighted the need for clear and accessible processes for reporting racism, increased accountability from service providers, and the promotion of positive narratives about First Nations people in health-related research and publications. An Anti-Racism Framework: Voices of First Nations Peoples Page 40