Central Coast

Culture Connect

First Nations Community Wellbeing Program

Supporting the mental health and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal people on the Central Coast.

We’re proud to announce the launch of Culture Connect, a powerful new initiative supported by the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation. This program is designed to strengthen cultural identity, promote connection, and improve health outcomes for First Nations communities on the Central Coast.

Led by a dedicated Aboriginal peer worker, Culture Connect delivers age-appropriate, culturally safe health and wellbeing support through a series of non-clinical, psychosocial programs.

This program is Free for First Nations individuals.

Join Program

Program Focus

Culture Connect is grounded in three core principles:

Recovery-focused: Supporting individual journeys toward healing and empowerment

Culturally safe: Respecting and embracing Aboriginal identity, traditions, and experiences

Socially inclusive: Welcoming and accessible for all community members

Program Outline

Week 1: Yarn’n. What is social emotional wellbeing and why is it important
Week 2: Connection to Body
Week 3: Connection to mind and body
Week 4: Connection to Family and Kinship
Week 5: Connection to Community
Week 6: Connection to Culture
Week 7: Connection to Country
Week 8: Connection to Spirituality and Ancestors

Age Groups

The program is tailored across three age groups:

Youth (12–18 years)
Adults (18–49 years)
Elders (50+ years)

Each group engages in culturally appropriate activities designed to build connection, confidence, and resilience—while offering vital low-intensity mental health support in a community-led, non-clinical environment

How Can I Join The Program?

First Nations people aged 12+ can join the FREE 8 week program for by completing the online form below. One of our team will then contact you to discuss the program and a start date with you.

Join Culture Connect