Health equity and the social determinants of health in Australia

The situation of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) peoples of Australia provides us with a good starting point for an examination of the issues of health inequalities and the social determinants of health in the country. The lamentable gap in life expectancy between this community and the non-indigenous population is a stark illustration of both inequalities in health and the role of the social determinants in the lives of all Australians. Paradoxically, however, the philosophy and understanding of health of ATSI peoples provides all Australians with a more holistic view of health and strengthens our understanding of the social determinants. We have a unique chance to learn with and from the Indigenous population, including gaining insights into the role of spirituality and sense of belonging to 'country', making us different to other Anglophone societies. An Aboriginal understanding of health helps Australia to critically examine the western medical model of health and deepen our understanding of comprehensive Primary Health Care.