Cultural safety statement

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land where our Sunshine pharmacy operates. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and communities.

We recognise the importance of self-determination, connection to Country and community-controlled care.

What we mean by cultural safety

Cultural safety is determined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receiving care. We aim to listen, respect identity and choices, and address racism and barriers to care. You can ask questions, decline care, request support or tell us when the service falls short.

Planning your visit

• You can choose whether to identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. This can help a clinician assess health recommendations and funded eligibility.
• Tell us if you would like a family member, Elder, friend or health worker involved. We will discuss consent, privacy and practical arrangements.
• Ask about a private discussion, more time, language support or rebooking.
• Before vaccination, the clinician should explain the expected benefits, risks, alternatives, costs and aftercare and seek informed consent.

Funding and clinical recommendations

NIP eligibility generally requires Medicare eligibility as well as age and clinical criteria. Eligible NIPVIP services at this pharmacy have no patient charge. Pharmacist age and service authorisation also applies.

• Influenza is NIP funded from six months for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; the pharmacy vaccinates from age five within scope.
• Current adult pneumococcal funding starts from age 25 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Shingles funding starts from age 50, or from 18 with specified immune conditions or treatments.
• Current older-adult RSV funding starts from age 60 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Childhood and catch-up programs have separate eligibility and provider arrangements.

Check the current Victorian adult funding guidance with a clinician. A recommendation does not always mean a service is funded.

Community-controlled care

You can choose an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation. Ask about record sharing or a referral with the appropriate consent and authority.

• Victorian Aboriginal Health Service
• VACCHO, the Victorian peak body
• NACCHO, the national peak body

Learning and accountability

Cultural safety requires ongoing learning and reflection. This statement is an expression of our aims; it does not claim community endorsement, accreditation or a verified training history. Feedback about the service and this information is welcome.

Feedback and complaints

Call (03) 9364 7133 and ask for the Pharmacist in Charge, or email smpchemist@gmail.com. Avoid sending sensitive health information by ordinary email.

You may also contact the Health Complaints Commissioner or Ahpra for guidance within their respective roles.

Language and communication

Tell us your preferred language and communication needs before booking. Ask about professional interpreter support through TIS National (131 450) or a suitable local service. Language availability, eligibility and costs vary. Automatic website translations have not been clinically reviewed.