PHONE NUMBER :

1300 769 620

EMAIL ADDRESS :

servicedelivery@homecareaustralia.com.au

Caring For ATSI People

​ATSI stands for Aborignal and Torres Strait Islander people.

ATSI is a term that defines a person who is of ATSI descent, who identifies as indigenous and is accepted by the indigenous community. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have distinct identities, histories and cultural traditions.They are culturally and genetically Melanesian people, as are the people of Papua New Guinea. ATSI people,  have been administered by a system of elected councils. ​ ATSI culture includes a number of practices and ceremonies centered on their beliefs about their ancestors and the land.

ATSI Attitudes And Behaviors

ATSI people speak different languages and have different values, but they do have some things in common.Some people may be shy and uncomfortable asking or answering questions, or asserting themselves.Some ATSI people may not speak, read or write English very well.Many ATSI people will not tell you if they do not understand what you are saying and will not ask questions.ATSI people have  very different spiritual beliefs to mainstream religionsATSI people are not permitted to mention the name of a deceased personATSI people are generally not used to having non ATSI visitors in their homes and may still have strong fears of outside visitors because of the long history of the stolen generation.

Working With ATSI Clients

Helpful Tips For Caring For ATSI Clients

Non-verbal communication – In some ATSI cultures it is disrespectful to look into a person’s eyes as the eyes are the window to the soul. An ATSI client who avoids looking into your eyes may be showing you respect – not that they are not interested in what you are saying.They may use a soft voice which will be signaling respect. In return, use a soft tone back to them.Be patient  – Sometimes an ATSI client will respond to your question with what seems a long-winded story, the reply may contain both the information you want and also an indication of their feelings so listen carefully. Allow time for silence whilst they process what you are saying.Be a good listener – it is important that clients  hear your opinions, you may anticipate that they will also expect you to hear theirs.Treat the client, not the illness – Try to learn about the whole person, ATSI people  view health in terms of overall balance so it is important that you assess more than just the physical symptoms.Avoid generalizations and make no assumptions about your clients–You need to observe and ask what’s best for them, so you can provide the most appropriate services.Always feedback to your coordinator any concerns or information that may be of value for other ATSI care workers.

“ ATSI Clients Expect Health Care Professionals To Respect Them And Their Beliefs “

ATSI Culture , Practices And  Ceremonials

ATSI community controlled health organizations and palliative care services can work together to meet the needs of our ATSI clients whilst respecting their  culture. Palliative care is available to support ATSI people with an illness that is likely to shorten their life.

Ceremonial Life

Ceremonies play an important part in ATSI life.Small ceremonies or rituals are still practiced in some remote parts of Australia, such as in Arnhem Land and Central Australia, in order to ensure a supply of plant and animal foods. These take the form of chanting, singing, dancing or rituals to invoke the Ancestral Beings to ensure a good supply of food or rain.Men

are decorated for the ceremony, holding an object representing an important totem. ​ The most important ceremonies are connected with the initiation of boys and girls into adulthood. Such ceremonies sometimes last for weeks, with nightly singing and dancing, story telling, and the display of body decoration and ceremonial objects. During these ceremonies, the songs and stories connected to each of the Ancestral Beings are told.

Funeral Ceremonies

Another important time for ceremonies is on the death of a person, when people often paint themselves white, cut their own bodies to show their remorse for the loss of their loved one and conduct a series of rituals, songs and dances to ensure the person’s spirit leaves the area and returns to its birth place, from where it can later be reborn. ​ Burial practices vary throughout Australia, people being buried in parts of southern and central Australia, but having quite a different burial in the north. Across much of northern Australia, a person’s burial has two stages, each accompanied by ritual and ceremony. 

There is plenty of information on the internet to assist you with understanding your ATSI clients.

Useful sites for further information: ​ http://www.community.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/321308/working_with_aboriginal.pdf http://www.workingwithatsi.info/content/pi_family.htm
http://www.workingwithatsi.info/content/pi_image.htm

Facebook
LinkedIn
Email
Picture of Author: Gaynor Lowndes

Author: Gaynor Lowndes

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Lisa Bycroft

Care Partner

Lisa is an experienced Care Partner at HomeCare Australia, supporting clients across Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and the Hunter. With over 20 years in aged care and disability services, Lisa is known for her calm leadership, person-centred care, and deep empathy.

Her career includes frontline care, case management, and regional operations leadership with providers such as Mercy Services and integratedliving. She has coordinated services across CHSP, HCP, and NDIS programs and is particularly skilled in dementia-specific care and behaviour support.

Lisa builds strong relationships with clients and care teams alike. She empowers care workers through mentoring and hands-on support, ensuring services are respectful, flexible, and aligned with client goals.

Her qualifications include Certificate IV in Service Coordination (Ageing & Disability), Certificate IV in Leisure and Health, and Certificate III in Aged Care. She also holds credentials in medication management, dementia care, infection control, and behavior support. Lisa maintains First Aid, NDIS Worker Screening, and Working with Children Checks.

At HomeCare Australia, Lisa supports people with high and complex needs, assists with transitions to Support at Home, and ensures care plans reflect dignity and choice. Her calm presence and strong values make her a trusted guide for clients and a leader among peers.

Bronwyn

Case Manager

Bronwyn brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her role as a Case Manager at HomeCare Australia. With a background in managing and running childcare centres, as well as hands-on experience as an NDIS disability support worker, Bronwyn has built a career centred around supporting and empowering vulnerable individuals. Her time in the highly legislated childcare sector has honed her strong case management skills, making her an invaluable asset to our team.

Driven by her passion for helping others, Bronwyn recently returned to the Central Coast from Sydney to be closer to her family. A proud aunty to many nieces and nephews, she cherishes time spent with her loved ones and her pets. When she’s not working, you’ll often find her enjoying the slower pace of life on the coast, indulging in her love for cooking, and soaking up the peaceful coastal lifestyle.

Bronwyn’s blend of professional expertise, heartfelt compassion, and dedication to making a difference ensures she provides exceptional support to every client she works with. We’re delighted to have her as part of the HomeCare Australia team.

Patricia

Roster Team Leader

As a Roster Manager, I specialize in creating efficient and effective schedules that keep our team running smoothly and ensure the highest quality of care for our clients. My goal is to optimize operations, support our incredible staff, and contribute to seamless service delivery.

My diverse career journey—from brewing the perfect cup of coffee as a barista to coordinating campaigns as a marketing administrator and ensuring compliance as a KYC agent—has given me a unique skill set. I bring adaptability, precision, and

a customer-focused mindset to everything I do, qualities that align perfectly with HomeCare Australia’s commitment to excellence.

Outside of work, I’m a passionate reader, a foodie at heart, and an avid fan of K-dramas and binge-worthy series. I also love attending K-pop concerts, where I get to immerse myself in the electrifying energy of live performances.

With a blend of professional expertise and a vibrant personal life, I strive to bring energy, focus, and dedication to my role every day, ensuring our team and clients receive the best possible support.

Brittany

Case Manager

We’re excited to introduce Brittany, one of our compassionate and highly skilled Aged Care Case Managers at HomeCare Australia. Brittany brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, having worked in the community services industry since 2019. Her strong academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, a Diploma of Community Services, and additional certifications in Mental Health First Aid, Applied Suicide Intervention, and Naturopathy.

Brittany’s diverse qualifications—combined with her Certificates 3 and 4 in Fitness—enable her to take a holistic and personalized approach to supporting clients in achieving their goals and maintaining independence.

Originally from a farm outside of Tamworth, Brittany grew up riding horses and caring for an array of animals, which instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility and compassion. Today, she shares her life with her partner, their lively one-year-old daughter, and their playful border collie.

Brittany is passionate about personal growth, journaling, neuroscience, and living a balanced, low-tox lifestyle. She thrives on creating meaningful connections with her clients, helping them navigate their aged care journey with kindness, empathy, and expert guidance.

Her approachable nature, love of gardening, and belief in the importance of protecting your energy ensure that she brings warmth and positivity to every interaction. Whether she’s coordinating services or simply sharing a light-hearted moment (along with her signature “funny” jokes), Brittany is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care and support.

We’re confident that Brittany’s expertise and genuine care will make her an invaluable partner in helping you or your loved one live comfortably and independently at home.

Myckayla

Delivery Team

We’re excited to shine a spotlight on Myckayla, one of our incredible team members here at HomeCare Australia. Myckayla recently moved from the Central Coast to the beautiful south of Brisbane, where she continues to make a positive difference in the lives of those she supports. A proud mum of two little boys, Myckayla loves spending time outdoors—whether she’s gardening, enjoying the beach, or connecting with nature. Her passion for art and spirituality adds to her warm and compassionate approach to care.

Myckayla has been dedicated to the aged care and disability support sector since the age of 16, when she began her journey as an aged care nurse. From a young age, she has been driven by a deep desire to help others and improve their quality of life. Her unwavering commitment and heartfelt care make her an invaluable part of our team, and we’re so grateful to have her making a difference every day.

Sheryll

Foundational Member of HomeCare Australia

Sheryll has been an integral part of HomeCare Australia since the very beginning, bringing her wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to our team. As a seasoned accountant and bookkeeper with over 18 years of expertise, Sheryll’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in supporting the success and growth of our organization.

A proud mother of four, Sheryll balances her professional responsibilities with her vibrant family life. Her warmth and organizational skills extend beyond the office, where she is known for her love of baking and cooking—delighting friends and family with her culinary creations.

Outside of work, Sheryll embraces life with enthusiasm. She enjoys traveling and exploring new places, channelling her creativity into crocheting unique items, and playing the guitar during her downtime. Whether she’s embarking on outdoor adventures or sharing stories with loved ones, Sheryll brings energy, joy, and a sense of purpose to everything she does.
As one of our longest-standing team members, Sheryll’s dedication, expertise, and passion continue to be an inspiration to