Climate and environmental crisis: effects on ear and hearing health in Australia and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

As a collaborative research team, we acknowledge the diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultural knowledges that shape our work. We are united in our commitment to examining health and climate through the lens of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, recognising the profound and disproportionate impacts these intersecting issues have on Indigenous communities globally.

Our team includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers, clinicians and allies who bring deep cultural, professional and personal insights to this work. Professor Kelvin Kong AM, a Worimi man and Australia's first Indigenous ear, nose and throat surgeon, has dedicated his career to addressing health inequities, particularly in ear health, guided by cultural values and respect for community leadership. Dr Georgia Tongs, a Wiradjuri woman and emerging researcher, contributes her passion for Indigenous-led health research, strengthened by mentorship and collaboration within the team.

Non-Indigenous team members — Associate Professor Robert Eisenberg, Professor Jennifer Martin, and Dr Isabella Ludbrook — bring their expertise in surgery, public health, climate advocacy, and infectious diseases, while actively engaging in culturally safe, Indigenous-led research practices. Their work is informed by long-standing partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, guided by principles of self-determination, reciprocity and respect.

This research is grounded with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community priorities driving its direction. The project emerged from discussions at the Otitis Media Australia (OMOZ) conference (www.omoz.com.au), where Indigenous health leaders highlighted the urgent need to address otitis media — a condition disproportionately affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children — alongside the growing threats of climate change.

We recognise that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a critical health justice issue for First Nations peoples, who face systemic inequities compounded by ecological disruption. Our collective approach centres Indigenous knowledge, resilience, and leadership in developing solutions that promote health equity and climate resilience.

Through this work, we strive to amplify Indigenous voices, uphold cultural authority, and contribute to a future where health and climate policies are shaped by the wisdom and needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.