The concept of 'Closing the Gap' has been a central focus in addressing Indigenous health disparities in Australia for over a decade. Introduced in 2008, this national strategy aimed to reduce inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians across various domains, including health, education, and employment.

While well-intentioned, the language of 'closing the gap' has limitations.

The idea of 'closing' a gap suggests a finite endpoint, where Indigenous health outcomes would match those of non-Indigenous Australians. However, this framing fails to acknowledge the dynamic nature of health improvements and the interconnectedness of population health. As Indigenous health outcomes improve, so do those of the broader population, creating a moving target that may never be fully 'closed.'

Progress on the Closing the Gap targets has been mixed since their inception. While some areas have seen improvements, such as increased Indigenous school attendance and higher rates of Indigenous youth completing Year 12, other targets, particularly those related to life expectancy and child mortality, have not been met. This uneven progress highlights the complexity of addressing deep-rooted health disparities and the need for a more nuanced approach to measuring success.

A more appropriate framework might involve measuring change on a scale of improvement rather than aiming to close a perceived gap. This approach recognises that progress is not linear and allows for a more holistic view of health advancements. It acknowledges that as Indigenous health improves, it contributes to overall population health improvements, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits all Australians.

Moreover, focusing on improvement rather than gap closure respects the unique cultural and historical contexts of Indigenous health. It allows for the celebration of progress and achievements without the implicit suggestion that Indigenous health must conform to non-Indigenous standards. This shift in perspective encourages a more culturally responsive and strengths-based approach to Indigenous health policy and practice.

The interconnectedness of Indigenous and non-Indigenous health is evident in various public health initiatives. For instance, improvements in Indigenous maternal and child health programs often lead to advancements in overall perinatal care practices. Similarly, efforts to address chronic diseases in Indigenous communities have contributed to broader population health strategies for managing conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

By reframing the discourse from 'closing the gap' to measuring improvement, we can foster a more inclusive and realistic approach to Indigenous health. This perspective acknowledges the ongoing nature of health advancements and the mutual benefits that arise from addressing health inequities. It encourages sustained effort and investment in Indigenous health initiatives, recognizing that progress in this area lifts the health standards for all Australians.

As we move forward, it is crucial to continue supporting Indigenous-led health initiatives and to value Indigenous knowledge and practices in healthcare. By doing so, we not only work towards improving Indigenous health outcomes but also enrich our overall understanding of health and well-being. The journey towards health equity is ongoing, and by focusing on continuous improvement rather than gap closure, we can create a more nuanced and effective approach to addressing health disparities in Australia.

Listen to Australian National University's Associate Professor Ray Lovett speak about this here: