Aboriginal culture intuitively embodies and interconnects the threads of life that are known to be intrinsic to human wellbeing: connection. Therefore, Aboriginal wisdom and practices are inherently strengths-based and healing-informed. Underpinned by an Indigenist research methodology, this article presents findings from a collaboration of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples to develop an Australian Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Indigenous Framework during 2021 to 2023. The FASD Indigenous Framework unfolds the changes that non-Aboriginal clinicians and Aboriginal peoples each need to make in their respective ways of knowing, being and doing in order to facilitate access to healing-informed, strengths-based and culturally responsive FASD knowledge, assessment, diagnosis and support services among Aboriginal peoples. Drawing on the Aboriginal practices of yarning and Dadirri, written and oral knowledges were gathered. These knowledges were mapped against Aboriginal cultural responsiveness and wellbeing frameworks and collaboratively and iteratively reflected upon throughout. This article brings together Aboriginal wisdom (strengths-based, healing-informed approaches grounded in holistic and integrated support) and Western wisdom (biomedicine and therapeutic models) in relation to FASD. From a place of still awareness (Dadirri), both forms of wisdom were drawn upon to create Australia’s first FASD Indigenous Framework, a new practice in the assessment and diagnosis of FASD, which offers immense benefit to equity, justice, support and healing for Aboriginal families with a lived experience of FASD.

Objectives: This study aims to systematically review screening and assessment approaches and therapeutic interventions for young people with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in the youth justice system (YJS). Method: Five databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science and PsycINFO) for studies evaluating effectiveness of screening, assessment or interventions, targeting people aged 10–18 years in youth justice with a NDD. Results: Eighteen peer-reviewed articles (9 screening/assessment; 9 intervention studies) were eligible. More comprehensive assessment appeared to be superior to brief screening for identifying NDDs. Interventions addressed social and emotional wellbeing, educational, employment, language and communication and behavioural outcomes, community engagement, quality of life factors and recidivism. Limited consideration was given to cultural diversity in evaluations of screening, assessment or interventions. Conclusions: The limited amount of evidence retrieved suggests further research is urgently needed in the provision of culturally competent and holistic screening, assessment and treatment for young people with NDDs in the YJS.

Harmful use of alcohol consumption in Australia is a serious socio-political and public health issue that is exacerbated by exploitative marketing campaigns by the alcohol industry. In Indigenous populations harmful alcohol use is directly related to the legacy of colonisation that has led to complex social issues and adverse intergenerational trauma. To effectively address alcohol-related harm in Australia, it is necessary to critically apply the ‘Three Pillars of Harm Minimisation’, which are demand reduction, supply reduction, and harm reduction. This can be facilitated through approaches such as the ‘Interplay Wellbeing Framework’, which situates concepts of wellbeing and risky alcohol use within the context of systemic inequities across all social determinants of health. Culturally responsive approaches embody a holistic view of community, mutually respectful collaboration, culture, healing, and self-determined change. This is underpinned by Indigenous leadership that promotes existing resistance, resilience, interpersonal relationships, and strengths that instil healing to counter the harms associated with alcohol use.

This Indigenous-led qualitative study explores the lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people involved in child justice systems, highlighting both protective factors and systemic challenges. Thirteen participants shared stories that revealed the importance of hope, identity, supportive relationships, and culturally safe spaces in fostering resilience and positive change. These strengths were often developed in the context of significant adversity, including early trauma, systemic racism, and harmful institutional responses. Sub-themes were organized under two overarching themes: Negative Childhood Experiences and Positive Influences and Protective Factors . Findings underscore the need for culturally responsive, strengths-based justice reforms that center lived experience and promote healing, belonging, and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities.