SOAD9213 Social Work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

This topic introduces students to the values, ethics and competencies required to work in culturally respectful ways with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and relevant policy makers and service providers. The learning process aims to increase student's awareness of self and the complexity of social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities today. Students will critically reflect on the ways that non-Aboriginal people and social policies have contributed to contemporary challenges, reflecting on how to develop alternative ways that promote respect and genuine collaboration with Aboriginal and Islander people, families and communities. Interpersonal communication skills are focussed on, particularly those relating to engagement of diverse populations through reflective listening and the critical use of self.

This topic aims to:

• Explore the meaning of the term 'Social and Emotional Wellbeing' (SEWB) and how ethical social work practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities needs to demonstrate this holistic approach
• Increase students' knowledge of the effects of past social policies and colonisation, in particular the assimilation era policies, on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities
• Focus analysis on the power dynamics of white privilege and Indigenous oppression as they unfold in diverse situations, including social work history, education and contemporary practice
• Explain how a narrative approach in interviews can assist effective relationship building between social workers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities

1. Recognise and describe the significance of colonial history on current social policies and practices in Australia that involve Indigenous people
2. Critically reflect on the potential implications of white privilege and Indigenous oppression for contemporary practice
3. Understand how to work in a culturally safe manner using a social justice perspective when working with Indigenous clients, families and communities, taking account of their emotional and social wellbeing
4. Critically reflect on the use of a narrative approach when interviewing a client