Quitline has proven to be one of the most successful methods to support people to quit for good, and it is an increasingly popular support method for Aboriginal people to cut down or quit.
The Aboriginal Quitline is a culturally-sensitive, free and confidential telephone service providing customised assistance to help you with your quit smoking attempt. You can access the Aboriginal Quitline by calling 13 7848 and asking to speak to an Aboriginal Quitline counsellor.
The Aboriginal Quitline for Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Northern Territory has three Quitline counsellors: Jamara, Beige and Glen. They have a range of backgrounds and skills while also learning more and more from each caller they speak to. Each Quitline counsellor has the experience necessary to provide a culturally safe environment for the caller. This enables them to feel comfortable in discussing their smoking and other life circumstances which may be contributing to their smoking.
The service is available 8.00 am to 8.00 pm Monday to Friday. Aboriginal Quitline counsellors are professionals with comprehensive training to assist people with smoking cessation in a culturally appropriate way. They will provide callers with a plan for quitting that is tailored to their individual needs, as well as information on different quitting methods and products, and written and other resources. They can also link callers up with local support groups if requested.
They can also call you back to provide further support and check how your quit smoking journey is progressing.
Hear from two of our Aboriginal Quitline counsellors below!
Suggested Resources
Smoking in the Aboriginal community
Smoking prevalence within Aboriginal communities is still much higher than in non-Indigenous communities. Stark figures, such as a life expectancy 10 years younger than non-Indigenous people, reaffirm the need for continued commitment to Aboriginal programs to tackle smoking.
How to support your mob to become smoke free
Quitting smoking can be a team effort. If someone in your community is trying to quit smoking, there are steps you can use to guide them through the journey.
Naomi's story
When life was stressful, Naomi looked to cigarettes for support. Through ups and downs, smoking was a solid constant. Quitting helped to remind Naomi of her own strength. Find out how that confidence led to a healthier life for her and her daughter.