Our Tackling Indigenous Smoking and Vaping (TIS-V) program brought together frontline staff for a two-day Workforce Development and Training Workshop in Adelaide earlier this month.

As part of the program’s recent transition to a regional delivery model, AHCSA is now working in partnership with four Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services—Nganampa Health Council, Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, Nunyara Aboriginal Health Service Inc, and Pika Wiya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation—to deliver targeted smoking and vaping prevention activities across their respective regions.

The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to strengthen their knowledge and skills in smoking and vaping prevention, community engagement, and health promotion, supporting the delivery of TIS V activities across their respective communities.

Delivered in partnership with the National Best Practice Unit for Tackling Indigenous Smoking, the training was designed to build workforce capability and confidence while reinforcing culturally safe approaches to community-based health promotion. Participants reported that the workshop content was highly relevant to their roles and reflected the needs of the communities they serve.

Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of the training in strengthening understanding of effective community engagement, partnership development, and the practical delivery of TIS V initiatives. Participants also reported increased confidence in implementing program activities and supporting positive health outcomes within their regions.

The workshop fostered a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment, with participants acknowledging the importance of sharing knowledge, experiences, and strategies with peers from across the sector.

Strong support was expressed for ongoing workforce development opportunities, with participants recommending regular workshops to continue building skills, strengthening networks, and supporting the successful delivery of the TIS V program across South Australia.

AHCSA remains committed to supporting Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services through  workforce development initiatives that strengthen local capacity and contribute to reducing the harms associated with smoking and vaping in Aboriginal communities.