Women’s Health Matters has confirmed that its Health in My Language program will keep running beyond June, thanks to renewed funding, continuing to support culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Canberra in accessing health information in their own languages.
What the program covers
The initiative focuses on several key health priority areas, including cancer screening, mental health, and sexual and reproductive health. The goal is to empower migrant and refugee communities to make informed decisions about their health by removing language as a barrier to understanding and accessing care.
According to Women’s Health Matters, the program is also developing new in-language “Where to Go” video resources, designed to guide community members toward low-cost and no-cost health services available across Canberra. These videos are expected to launch in August.
New resources on the way
In addition to the video series, the organisation is preparing to release a new factsheet offering guidance on where to find support for people experiencing domestic, family, or sexual violence in the ACT. A companion wallet-sized resource is also being developed to help both individuals and support workers respond appropriately when someone discloses experiencing violence.
Why this matters
Language barriers can make it significantly harder for people to understand their health options, know their rights, or feel confident seeking care — particularly for newly arrived migrants and refugees who may be unfamiliar with the Australian health system. Programs like this play an important role in making sure health information is genuinely accessible, not just technically available.
For organisations supporting people with additional needs — including disability and community services — initiatives like this highlight the broader importance of designing health resources and pathways that meet people where they are, in language and format that actually works for them.
Looking ahead
With the new video resources and factsheet expected in August, Canberrans from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds will soon have more tools to help them navigate the local health system with greater confidence and independence.
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