Tara Murray
The construction of the Sunshine Private Hospital took an important step forward last week with a smoking ceremony for NAIDOC Week.
Australian Unity and constructor Built last week held the traditional smoking ceremony along with cultural performances to celebrate the culture of the traditional custodians of Sunshine, the Wurundjeri People.
Built national director Ross Walker said events at the site were important to acknowledge the traditional custodians and their continuing connection to this land.
“It’s also a great opportunity to better educate and engage our teams and project partners in the importance of reconciliation and to motivate us all to consider what social impact we can create throughout this project to provide pathways for direct and indirect employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.
Australian Unity healthcare property general manager Chris Smith said Australian Unity together with the team at Built will look to positively engage with key partners and stakeholders including contractors and subcontractors for the Sunshine Private Hospital development, to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have the ability to participate in pathways to
employment, and training.
He said the two groups would also look to support Indigenous business capability through economic development and procurement channels, as well as seek input through consultation with community leaders and organisations.
The first stage of the development which is set for conclusion next year, will include a 30-bed medical and surgical ward, along with high dependency beds, a dedicated private mental health inpatient unit, operating theatres and an endoscopy suite.
