National Close the Gap Day: Strengthening futures through agency, leadership, and reform

Despite efforts from the Close the Gap campaign, the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians remains unacceptably wide.

At NASCA, we stand with the Indigenous-led Close the Gap campaign in calling for real, measurable action to achieve health and life expectancy equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by 2030.

For 30 years, NASCA has championed agency, leadership, and reform, ensuring that Indigenous young people have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

Despite efforts from organisations like NASCA and the wider Close the Gap campaign, the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians remains unacceptably wide – with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people dying, on average, 10 years younger than other Australians.

Health is not just about hospitals and doctors; education, employment, cultural strength, and self-determination are all crucial factors.

As a 100% Indigenous-governed and led organisation, we understand that education is not just about academic achievement – it’s a vital tool for improving health outcomes. By supporting educational attainment, we are directly contributing to closing the health gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Educational Attainment: NASCA’s programs foster strong academic foundations, with a 95% high school graduation rate (2022–2024), exceeding national averages. Education equips young people with the skills and confidence needed to pursue healthier lifestyles, access better healthcare, and make informed decisions about their well-being. This contributes directly to the Close the Gap campaign by promoting better long-term health outcomes through increased knowledge, access to resources, and opportunities for personal and community growth.

Employment and Economic Participation: We know that securing higher education and career opportunities leads to economic independence and improved physical and mental health. NASCA creates direct pathways to education and employment which influences health outcomes by reducing the stressors associated with unemployment and poverty, and by fostering a sense of agency and self-worth.

Connection to Culture: At NASCA, we believe that true health and well-being come from more than just physical care – they come from a deep connection to culture and identity. Our programs focus on connecting young people to Aboriginal ways of being, knowing, and doing, which provide unique pathways to health and resilience. Cultural connection fosters a sense of belonging, pride, and self-worth, which is essential to mental and emotional well-being. By engaging with traditional practices, language, and stories, our young people develop a stronger sense of purpose and empowerment, which has a direct, positive impact on their health and well-being in ways that are meaningful and special to Indigenous peoples.

Justice and Community Well-being: By focusing on education, we address the root causes of disadvantage and help reduce the involvement of our young people in the justice system. Strong educational outcomes lead to healthier, more resilient communities. It is through education that we can empower young people to make positive choices for their future and well-being.

On National Close the Gap Day (20 March 2025), we acknowledge the resilience, innovation, and success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. But we also call for real partnerships, additional investment, and meaningful collaboration from government and corporate Australia. Change is possible – but only when we centre Indigenous agency, leadership, and expertise.

We invite corporate partners, policymakers, and the wider Australian community to stand with us. Together, we can drive real reform and build a future where Indigenous young people thrive.

Join the movement. Support Indigenous-led change.