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Social determinants On all socio-economic indicators Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples suffer the most disadvantage of any population group in Australia. In many communities housing is inadequate with significant overcrowding, poor sewerage, limited access to clean water and limited food storage facilities. In general compared to the non-Indigenous population, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are more likely to have: - Lower levels of household incomes
- Higher rates of unemployment
- Lower levels of educational achievement, attendance and retention to Year 12
- Higher rates of incarceration of men, women and youth
- Higher rates of child removal under care and protection orders
There may also be limited recreational, training and employment opportunities. As well, in more remote communities, the increased cost and poor availability of fresh and healthy foods may impact significantly on diet and nutrition.
Combined with the high levels of health and mental health morbidity, prevention and treatment of and recovery from mental disorders is complex and requires a broad range of strategies that also address the fundamental pre-requisites for good development and healthy lifestyles.
Recommended Reading
AIHW reports
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Key issues 
