Aboriginal health advocate inducted into WA Women's Hall of Fame

Janinne Gliddon, Regional Aboriginal Health Consultant for the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Wheatbelt, was one of 16 trailblazing women recently inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame.

Janinne is a proud Badimia Yamatji and Ballardong Nyoongar woman with more than 30 years’ experience in the public sector across the fields of both health and housing.

As part of the WACHS Wheatbelt executive team, Janinne provides cultural support and advice, and is a voice for Aboriginal communities across the region.

“Aboriginal health has always been my passion,” Janinne said.

“Ensuring care is available on country and close to home is such an important part of what we do.”

Over her career, Janinne’s dedication to her community has had a lasting impact – on the lives of mothers and young families in particular. 

As the Senior Aboriginal Health Promotions Officer at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Janinne initiated, coordinated, and managed Australia’s first hospital-based Aboriginal Volunteer Program. 

The program was built to support Aboriginal mums-to-be and help them have safe and secure experiences while away from home.

Supporting Aboriginal women to give birth on country, without the need to travel to Perth, is another area Janinne is passionate about. 

“Pregnancies in Aboriginal women are automatically considered high-risk,” Janinne said.

“Supporting women to give birth close to home – with access to family, friends and broader support networks – is vital to maternal wellbeing.” 

Janinne’s Hall of Fame recognition is just the latest in a string of accolades. In 2018, she was acknowledged for her commitment to women’s health with a Churchill Fellowship and she’s also received NAIDOC honours.

WACHS Wheatbelt Acting Regional Director Russell Colyer-Cockburn, said Janinne’s induction into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame was thoroughly deserved in recognition of a distinguished career.

“This is a wonderful celebration of Janinne’s work to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal families,” he said.

“Since joining WACHS Wheatbelt in 2019, Janinne has continued to be a strong voice for Aboriginal communities.

“Her contribution to Western Australia – particularly in the field of women’s health – is exceptional. On behalf of WACHS, I extend to Janinne my most sincere congratulations.”