The plan reinforces Grampians Health’s broader commitment to delivering high-quality, consumer-centred care, workplaces where people thrived and partnered with communities to improve health outcomes.

CEO Dale Fraser said the Intercultural Action Plan would help position Grampians Health as a healthcare service that listened, learned and led with inclusion.

“By aligning our intercultural priorities with our strategic goals, we are strengthening our vision to be a trusted, progressive and inclusive healthcare service,” Mr Fraser said.

“It is a timely and strategic response to the evolving cultural landscape of both our workforce and the communities we serve. As of April 2025, about 25% of Grampians Health staff were born overseas, representing over 100 countries worldwide. The largest groups include staff from India and the Philippines.”

The Intercultural Action Plan consolidates existing and future initiatives under three key priority areas of Safe and Inclusive Workplace; Community Connections, Representation and Accessibility; and Cultural Change.

Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Committee Chair Veronica Furnier said the framework provided clear direction for building a culturally safe and capable organisation.

“This plan supports Grampians Health being an employer of choice for culturally diverse candidates and ensures all staff feel respected, safe and included,” Ms Furnier said.

“It also strengthens engagement with multicultural communities and embeds their voices in how we plan and deliver services.

“Ultimately, the plan will also help to normalise diversity and inclusion as core elements of how we work – not as add-ons – with a focus on building a culturally capable, accountable and empowered workforce.”

Care Assessment Officer Elizabeth Joseph, who was born in Kerala, a state in southwestern India, said she hoped the Intercultural Action Plan would help break down barriers, encourage better understanding and help further deliver care that meets the needs of all people.

“At Grampians Health, we have employees at every level who come from many different parts of the world,” Ms Joseph said.

“I believe the Intercultural Action Plan will ensure equitable access to services, foster an inclusive workplace and build cultural competence among staff.”

Ms Joseph said she’s been fortunate to have wonderful colleagues who have helped her to settle in Australia, especially those who have taught her some useful Aussie slang words.

“Australia offers so many opportunities, and the people here are so welcoming. Just like back home in India, it’s all about showing respect and valuing the cultural beliefs that make this country special.”

The Intercultural Action Plan was developed through extensive consultation with staff and community representatives and will continue to evolve through ongoing engagement and feedback.

It will be implemented and monitored by Grampians Health’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, with clear measures in place to track progress across key initiatives. These include improvements in access, inclusion and cultural capability across the organisation.

More from Care Assessment Officer Elizabeth Joseph;

“I happily followed my husband who chose Australia as his dream destination, and I am very happy with that decision.

“I was inspired to start a career in healthcare by a cheerful and enthusiastic nurse who looked after my cousin when she had her first baby many years ago. She always carried a smile on her face and never looked stressed. I still remember her name and her face as I was touched by her passion towards her job.

“Respect for elders and family cohesion are highly valued in Indian culture and are most important to me. I love our traditional festivals like Onam and Vishu which bring everyone together.

“My favourite food is Parotta – a flaky, layered south Indian flat bread made from refined flour, oil and eggs. It is a popular dish in Kerala and that goes well with beef fry cooked with coconut slice.  This combo will taste the best with enhanced flavour when wrapped in steamed banana leaf.”

Visit www.grampianshealth.org.au/intercultural-action-plan/ to read Grampians Health’s first Intercultural Action Plan.