Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities

Curated Australian and Torres Strait Islander resources and research

Aboriginal-and-Torres-Strait-Islander-flags

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) happens when a baby is affected by grog before they are born.

It is important that women who are planning a pregnancy or pregnant, don’t drink alcohol.

People with FASD can have a range of challenges with physical activities, language, memory, learning and behaviour.

Globally and in Australia, the prevalence rates of FASD are disproportionate amongst Indigenous populations as a direct consequence of colonisation; racism and poor social health determinants.

It is essential that approaches to FASD are culturally safe, trauma-informed, and led by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

If you or a family member are feeling worried or need support, don’t be ashamed to ask for help. There are services available which are run by, and for, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who can help you and your family.

If you think that a family member may have FASD, it is important to get help as early as possible so that support can be provided. Families, health professionals, school and service providers all need to work together to ensure people with FASD grow up happy and strong.

A pair of children in an outdoor setting playing with a soccer ball in a jovial manner

What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder?

Learn more about what FASD is and the challenges that people with FASD may face.

Vector graphic image of a pregnant person sitting cross legged in a meditative state

Alcohol and Pregnancy

See a list of frequently asked questions around alcohol, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A line of people standing with interlocked arms facing outwardly

FASD Assessment and Diagnosis

Learn more about the assessment and diagnosis process for FASD in Australia and why a diagnosis is so important.

Visit the FASD Hub's library of resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities

Resources

Strong Born

The national Strong Born FASD Campaign, developed by the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) in collaboration with the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisation (ACCHOs), provides a culturally safe framework to prevention, health promotion and supporting children and adults with FASD and their extended families.

A couple hold their newborn baby while supported by their mother and an Aboriginal Health Worker

Health Professionals Booklet

This resource has been created to raise awareness of FASD among multidisciplinary ACCHO staff and other health professionals.

A young girl sits on a table next to her mum and an Aboriginal Health Worker.

Community Booklet – Urban

This booklet has been created to raise awareness of FASD among community members who may play a role in supporting alcohol-free pregnancy; or support a person with FASD.

A young pregnant couple stand together, holding hands with their extended family.

Community Booklet – Rural and Regional

This booklet has been created to raise awareness of FASD among community members who may play a role in supporting alcohol-free pregnancy; or support a person with FASD.

Research Spotlight

New research lights path for improving FASD knowledge, assessment, and support services for Aboriginal peoples.

Nicole Hewlett, lead author and researcher at the University of Queensland, explains how a new Australian FASD Indigenous Framework offers hope and healing for all Australians living with FASD.

Dr Nicole Hewlett looks straight at the camera in front of a piece of Aboriginal Artwork

Need a yarn?

National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)

Culturally safe help is available from your local Aboriginal Health Worker or practitioner. Find the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) or affiliate nearest to you.

13YARN

Contact 13YARN for a free, confidential and culturally safe yarn with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.

SMS4DeadlyDads

SMS4DeadlyDads is a free service sending short text messages with tips, info and links for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dads to help connect with bub, support mum and look after themselves.

Video series: True or Gammon by the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress

Ep. 1 Is it safe to drink when you're pregnant?

Ep. 2 What about Dad?

Ep. 3 Helping kids with FASD

Beyond the FASD Hub

These resources have been created by other organisations.

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre website has a FASD portal which includes resources and information on policies and programs.

Australian Indigenous Health Bulletin

Watch videos featuring community members who share information with one another about drinking alcohol and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

Stay connected

Join our mailing list to hear more from the FASD Hub, including our monthly newsletters, webinar invitations, and new publications.

Acknowledgement of Country

FASD Hub Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and we recognise their connections to land, water and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.