At Werribee Mercy Hospital, we are excited to have Jake as a key member of our Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer (AHLO) team. Jake, a proud Jawoyn man with links to the Torres Strait, joined us in March 2025, bringing extensive experience from his roles in the Australian Army, Ambulance Victoria, and the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency.
Jake’s role involves providing cultural support, advocacy, and creating a safe environment for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. His background in emergency management and community care makes him uniquely qualified to address the challenges faced by our patients.
“If you visit the hospital, ask to meet with the AHLO team. Even if it is to say hello or have a cuppa and a yarn,” Jake encourages. ”There is support available across your time at Mercy, and we are here to assist you.”
Health disparities are stark. For instance, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are five times more likely to suffer from diabetes and four times more likely to have chronic kidney disease compared to non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Additionally, 80 per cent of the mortality gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 35-74 years is due to chronic diseases.
At Mercy Health, we are committed to Closing the Gap by providing culturally safe, compassionate care. Jake’s work is integral to this mission, helping to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all our patients.
Find out more about Aboriginal Programs and support here.
