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Objective: There is limited research available regarding the prevalence rates of psychiatric illness in Indigenous Australians, and the available literature varies widely in terms of methods and findings. Culturally valid and appropriate tools are needed to ensure accurate outcomes. The purpose of this review is to examine the methods used to diagnose psychiatric disorders in Indigenous Australians and identify whether these are culturally appropriate or valid. Method: A systematic search of available literature was undertaken in electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, PsycArticles, Web of Science, Medline, and Informit Health Indigenous Australians Peoples Collections). Narrative synthesis was used to analyse the data obtained, with a quantitative evaluations of study quality and cultural validity. Results: Twelve articles were included for review. Six studies were of diagnostic tools and none had been validated for use with Indigenous Australians. Another six used practitioner assessment. Some studies indirectly referenced cultural competence on behalf of the practitioner, but again on the whole this was lacking. Conclusions: Further validation of the use of diagnostic instruments in Indigenous Australians is needed so that the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in this population can be accurately determined. In addition, practitioners working with Indigenous Australians should have some training in cultural awareness or competence, and consider the cultural appropriateness of diagnostic tools when applied to this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concern exists that the growing over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people in out-of-home care (OOHC) across Australia is perpetuating historical, discriminatory child removal policies and practices. The disproportionate number of Indigenous children in OOHC is increasing at the same time as growing multi-jurisdictional policy and legal mandate for Indigenous self-determination, leadership, and cultural connectedness in the OOHC space. This study aims to provide evidence and instruction to social work educators, policymakers and practitioners in Australia’s complex child protection, wellbeing, and justice systems about why and how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-controlled organizations are best placed to lead OOHC service delivery for Indigenous children, their family and community. The qualitative research, located in Queensland, engages the knowledge and experience of Elders, Indigenous child safety professionals and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young adults who have recently exited OOHC to explore the importance of Indigenous-led OOHC service provision for generating genuine, intergenerational systemic change. Ten themes or authoritative Directives to non-Indigenous stakeholders are elicited and discussed. The paper concludes with three recommendations that press for a shift in the Western values and practices that underscore the monitoring and evaluation of Indigenous-led OOHC service providers by government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]