Engaging Indigenous Peoples in Technology Supported Human Service Offerings

Abstract

Loss of historical artefacts arising from colonisation and past social policy continue to cause disadvantage and distress for indigenous peoples all over the world and particularly so in Australia. Social efforts to improve community and family outcomes show little progress despite investment. The provision of culturally appropriate, high quality services could be enhanced through the use of technology, particularly in remote areas. One such application is the development of online options for family dispute resolution services. This study forms part of one example of community collaboration to ensure high quality, culturally appropriate services are available to some of the most disadvantaged groups in Australia. Using an organisational development approach via participatory action research, this chapter details an exercise in community engagement in planning for roll out of services. Data included both focus groups and researcher reflections which were pooled and analysed leading to the development of key themes. Participating communities appear ready and enthused by the concept of online service delivery; however, were wary of service provision that was not tailored to their needs or culturally insensitive. With ongoing modification and consultation with community reference groups, the service could be contextualised and adapted to better suit local needs.