Western Australia has launched Australia’s first culturally-grounded eating disorder screening tool for Aboriginal young people in the Kimberley today.
Developed by WA Country Health Service, Feelings about my body and eating will support culturally safe early identification and timely referral for Aboriginal young people aged 12-24 years.
The screening tool has also been guided by Aboriginal health professionals, youth services, clinicians, and cultural advisors and has been developed with extensive community consultation to ensure it meets cultural and healthcare needs, said Medical Research and Kimberley Minister, Stephen Dawson.
“The launch of this new screening tool is a proud moment for Western Australia with our health services at the forefront of culturally grounded care for eating disorders,” said Mr Dawson.
“Combining cultural, clinical knowledge, and innovation, we’re putting our best foot forward to support Aboriginal young people living in the Kimberley.”
The project also marks an important workforce milestone with the appointment of the first Aboriginal Health Coordinator in a dedicated eating disorders support role.
The screening tool will be embedded into healthcare delivery at WA Country Health Service’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service clinics in the Kimberley, as well as community-based services including Wunan Health & Well-Being Centre and Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service.
“Developing culturally safe ways to screen for eating disorders is an important part of improving health outcomes for Aboriginal young people,” said Health Minister, Meredith Hammatt.
“By embedding the screening tool in Aboriginal and community health services, we’re able to give more young people access to this care closer to home and on Country.”
Supported by a Telethon grant, the pilot is expected to help at least 40 young people in its initial phase and will run until June 2027, with an evaluation to determine the future scope of implementation.
