Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
We acknowledge the Dharawal people, particularly the Gweagal and Norongeragal clans, as the Traditional Custodians of the Sutherland area, and extend our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Our Commitment
At Shire Family Medical, we are committed to providing culturally respectful and inclusive care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our team understands the importance of connection to Country, culture, and community in supporting health and wellbeing.
We listen, take time, and provide care in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients are welcome at all our services, and we actively work to reduce barriers to access where we can.
You are always welcome to bring a family member, friend, or support person to your appointment. Let our reception team know when booking if this would help you feel more comfortable.
Medicare-Funded · All Ages · No Out-of-Pocket Cost
Free for eligible patients
The 715 Health Assessment, formally known as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Assessment, is a comprehensive, yearly health check specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages.
It is fully funded by Medicare with no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients, and can be done once per calendar year.
What the 715 Health Assessment covers
- Your health history and current concerns
- Blood pressure, weight, and physical measurements
- Chronic disease risk factors — diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney health
- Mental health and social and emotional wellbeing
- Immunisation review and any outstanding vaccinations
- Ear health and hearing (especially for children)
- Eye health
- Oral health discussion
- Smoking, alcohol, and lifestyle factors
- Blood tests and other investigations where appropriate
- A care plan tailored to your individual needs
- Referrals to specialists or community health services if needed
How We Support You
Beyond the 715 Health Assessment, all of our general GP services are available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, along with specific support services.
715 Health Assessments
Comprehensive yearly health checks, fully funded by Medicare with no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients.
Chronic Disease Management
Support for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney health, respiratory conditions, and other ongoing health concerns.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Culturally sensitive mental health support, including care planning and access to Medicare-subsidised psychology.
Immunisations
Vaccinations following the National Immunisation Program, including additional vaccines available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Care Coordination & Referrals
Help navigating specialist referrals, follow-up care, and connections to Aboriginal community health services.
Family & Community Health
Care for patients of all ages and life stages — children, adults, and older community members — always with family welcome.
Identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
To access Medicare-funded services designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including the 715 Health Assessment, patients need to identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander when registering.
You can let our reception team know at any time — when booking, on arrival, or at any appointment. This information is kept strictly confidential and will never be shared without your consent.
You only need to tell us once. Once your Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status is recorded in your patient record, we can note it for all future appointments without you needing to repeat it.
Additional Support Services
We can help connect you with community health services and other organisations in the Sutherland Shire and broader Sydney area.
Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Service
Aboriginal community-controlled health service providing culturally safe care. tacams.com.au
13YARN — Crisis Support
24/7 crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Call 13 92 76.
Link-Up NSW
Support for Stolen Generations survivors and those affected by family separation. linkupnsw.org.au
NACCHO Member Services
Find Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations near you. naccho.org.au
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
A 715 Health Assessment — formally known as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Assessment — is a comprehensive, yearly health check specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages. It helps identify health needs early and enables your GP to develop a care plan tailored to you. It is fully funded by Medicare with no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients.
Yes. The 715 Health Assessment is fully covered by Medicare and there is no out-of-pocket cost for eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. It is available once per calendar year.
Yes. Medicare-funded services designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people — including the 715 Health Assessment — are available to patients who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. You can let our reception team know at any time, and this information is kept strictly confidential.
The 715 Health Assessment is available once per calendar year. Your GP may recommend additional follow-up appointments or referrals based on the findings of your assessment, which are separate to the annual check itself.
Yes. You are always welcome to bring a family member, friend, or support worker to your appointment if it helps you feel more comfortable. Please let our reception team know when booking so we can ensure there is space and time for them to be present.Yes. You are always welcome to bring a family member, friend, or support worker to your appointment if it helps you feel more comfortable. Please let our reception team know when booking so we can ensure there is space and time for them to be present.
Yes. Our GPs can provide referrals, develop care plans, and help coordinate your care with other health providers — including Aboriginal community-controlled health services in the region. Please let your GP know if you would like help navigating other services.
Yes. All of our GP services are available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, alongside the specific support services and Medicare-funded programs described on this page. We welcome patients of all backgrounds and are committed to providing respectful, inclusive care to everyone we see.
We Welcome You
You are always welcome at Shire Family Medical. Book online or call our reception team — and feel free to bring someone with you.
Health Articles
Guidance on the 715 Health Check and culturally safe GP care.
What Is a 715 Health Check?
A GP guide to the free 715 Health Check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: who it's for, what it covers, and what happens…