About
We provide culturally secure, community-based healing services that utilise a trauma-informed approach to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people, and adults
The name “Yorgum” is a Noongar name for a large red flowering gum tree which has healing properties. Aboriginal people have used the gum for many years in the treatment of numerous ailments, including diseases of the eyes.
The name is an expression of the life-sustaining image of the living tree. The deep roots, rising sap, branches reaching to the sky, the shelter given and the home provided to the many forms of life-insects, reptiles, birds and other animals. It is a symbol of connectedness and inter-dependence in the diversity of living beings.
Yorgum was established in 1991 by a group of Aboriginal women, some of whom worked in women’s refuges, who were concerned about the lack of appropriate counselling support for Aboriginal people experiencing spiritual, emotional and psychological pain. They founded a service with a ‘healing’ approach rather than an ongoing, crisis-driven ‘patch-up’ approach.
Over the years Yorgum has grown in size and scope of its services, to become a well-respected Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.
YORGUM THROUGH THE YEARS
See how a powerful idea has grown over 30 years.
Our Vision
The social challenges faced by Aboriginal communities are complex and interwoven. We understand the significant inter-generational trauma that Aboriginal people have experienced arising from colonial history and adverse policies that have eroded their cultural identity, spirituality, kinship, knowledge, practices and cultural connections. Many Aboriginal Australians continue to be traumatised by racism, incarceration, identity issues, exploitation and abuse.
The effects of trauma experienced by many Aboriginal people impact on their social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) in areas such as their health, relationships, education, lifestyle, finances, livelihood, involvement with the justice system and identity. Aboriginal concepts of SEWB also highlight the importance of country, language, culture, spirituality and ancestors.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to provide all Aboriginal people and their families with a wide range of culturally secure, community-based healing services that utilise a trauma-informed approach to positively impact their social and emotional wellbeing.
Yorgum provides all Aboriginal people and their families autonomous, community-based healing, counselling, support and advocacy services that are culturally secure, trauma-informed and work within an Aboriginal Family Worldview.
We support Aboriginal people to rebuild connections that have been ruptured within their lives, with a view to enhancing their SEWB. We strive to offer a holistic service that supports the whole person in the context of their family and community.
Our Values
Our Mob First
We put Aboriginal people first in our priorities.
Aboriginal Culture
We base our work around Aboriginal culture and practices.
Safety
We provide safe, welcoming, culturally secure, trauma-informed services.
Respect
We believe in the dignity and worth of all people, and this underpins our behaviour.
Integrity
We are honest, do what we believe is right, are transparent and reliable.
Knowledge
We value knowledge and seek to build up our understanding.
Our Strategic Themes
Healing Services
Evidence-Based Reform
Partnerships
Sustainable Organisation
Our Partners
To deliver culturally secure, trauma-informed services that address the underlying drivers of social challenges for Aboriginal people.
