Nicole McCartney is a proud Yorta Yorta woman living on Bunurong country in Victoria. From a long line of strong matriarchs and advocates for Aboriginal rights, Nicole is a respected leader with over twenty years’ experience in Aboriginal health. 

 

As the inaugural Victorian Chief Aboriginal Health Adviser in the Department of Health, Nicole has spearheaded the delivery of an Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Division that is focused on embedding self-determination and cultural safety in the Victorian health system.  

 

Nicole’s work as the Manager of the Aboriginal Policy and Coordination Unit in Western Australia enabled her to work closely with Aboriginal communities on building models of health that reflect the holistic and cultural view of Aboriginal people and communities.  

 

With a strengths-based approach, Nicole brings a perspective to Aboriginal health that is built on respect, empowerment and importantly, an approach that is strong in culture. Nicole works to break down structural barriers to ensure all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can experience health and wellbeing with a strong focus on collaboration, building enduring relationships with stakeholders and the Aboriginal community-controlled sector.  

 

Holding a Science degree from Murdoch University and with significant experience with both State and Commonwealth governments, Nicole is highly skilled at navigating health policy and reform. Over the last 3 years Nicole has worked tirelessly to deliver a culturally safe COVID-19 health response for Aboriginal people in Victoria and is highly regarded by her peers at the Department of Health.  

 

As a proud mother of four wonderful children and a mad Tigers supporter, there is a never a dull moment in Nicole’s day.