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Our Journey to Reconciliation

Burnside Hospital acknowledges the Kaurna people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, heal, and care for our community.

Untitled design 9

We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and honour the enduring spiritual connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to land, waters, and culture.

We deeply value the knowledge, perspectives, and cultural strengths that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and partners bring to our workplace and patient care. As part of our commitment to reconciliation, we are focused on building a culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.

Our priorities include:

Establishing strong governance and leadership in reconciliation
Creating culturally safe and welcoming workplaces
Improving pathways for the attraction and recruitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
Strengthening internal systems to support inclusion
Supporting the development and success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, employees, and the wider healthcare community
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group at Burnside Hospital is a dedicated team of staff and stakeholders leading our organisation’s reconciliation journey. This group plays a central role in driving meaningful action, fostering cultural understanding, and building respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The RAP Working Group is responsible for:

Guiding the implementation and progress of Burnside Hospital’s Reflect RAP
Engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and partners
Promoting cultural learning opportunities for staff
Embedding reconciliation principles across policies, programs, and services
Supporting initiatives that strengthen cultural safety and inclusion in healthcare

Through collaboration, reflection, and accountability, the Working Group ensures that reconciliation is not a standalone initiative — but an ongoing commitment embedded in the heart of our organisation.

Together, we are working towards a healthcare environment that recognises the past, honours culture, and helps create a more equitable future for all.

Reflect  Action Plan

Burnside Hospital is proud to have commenced its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan — a significant milestone in our journey to strengthen relationships with First Nations peoples and communities.

Toorak Gardens
Burnside Hospital on Kaurna Country is proud to display a commissioned artwork piece (featured above), by Aboriginal artist David Jampin Brunette‑Booth, a proud Warumunga/Yuggera man. 

The artwork reflects our deep respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and honours the ongoing connection to land, water, and community.

Untitled design 9

At the heart of the piece, a central star represents Burnside Hospital, symbolising connection to our staff, patients, and broader community. The lines that radiate from the star reflect the journeys people take, and the meaningful relationships formed through care.

Two large medical cross-shaped symbols represent the hospital’s two sites, portraying healing and the flow of people through our services. A returning boomerang reinforces the idea of patients returning, while the spear and shield speak to strength and protection.

This artwork is more than a visual feature; it is a storytelling piece that reflects Burnside Hospital’s commitment to reconciliation and cultural recognition. We are honoured to share this visual expression of connection, strength, and care with all who enter our hospital.

At Burnside Hospital, we are committed to providing culturally safe, respectful, and inclusive care for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families. We recognise the unique spiritual, cultural, and historical needs of First Nations peoples and are dedicated to ensuring that every patient feels welcomed, supported, and heard throughout their healthcare journey.

This section provides helpful information, support services, and resources designed to enhance your experience with us. Whether you're here for a short visit or a longer stay, our team is here to work in partnership with you to deliver care that respects your culture, values, and connection to community.

Your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do.

Your career 
at  Burnside

With an uncompromising commitment to patient care and our dedication to nurturing a dynamic, team orientated, collegial environment, Burnside Hospital is truly a great place to work.