Wounds Australia is pleased to announce the membership of its First Nations Advisory Committee (FNAC), reinforcing the organisation's commitment to strengthening culturally safe wound care education, awareness and advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The committee brings together clinicians and healthcare professionals with diverse expertise to provide strategic advice and guidance on programs and activities that promote improved wound care for First Nations communities. 

New South Wales-based podiatrist and Wiradjuri woman Kayla Sale was appointed Chair in May. Ms Sale said she was pleased by the high calibre of applications and looking forward to working with appointees.

Joining Ms Sale are Wounds Australia Life Member Dr Jenny Prentice, Health Sociologist and Educator Ricki Spencer (also a member of the Be Wound Aware Consumer Advisory Group), WoundRescue Director and proud Wodi Wodi woman Hayley Ryan CNC, MBA, Maclean Medical Owner Haley Hodgson RN and Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Wound Care CNC Neenu Antony. 

The committee will guide Wounds Australia's engagement with First Nations communities, ensuring programs are informed by cultural knowledge, lived experience and clinical expertise, and provide advice on culturally appropriate education and awareness activities, contributing to the development of consumer resources and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations.

The committee will also help inform broader organisational priorities, supporting Wounds Australia's commitment to reducing the burden of chronic wounds through evidence-informed education, advocacy and meaningful collaboration.

Wounds Australia CEO Jeff Antcliff welcomed the establishment of the committee and thanked members for contributing their expertise.

"The First Nations Advisory Committee represents an important step in ensuring our work is informed by the communities we seek to support," Mr Antcliff said. 

"We're committed to listening, learning and working alongside First Nations peoples to develop culturally safe resources, strengthen partnerships and improve access to wound care education across Australia."

Wounds Australia looks forward to working with the committee to advance culturally safe education, awareness and wound care for First Nations peoples across Australia.