We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work, research and distribute medications all around Australia. We want to pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present, and acknowledge their continuous connection to land, waterways and culture.
We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Cammerygal people, the Traditional Custodians of the lands in North Sydney, where our head office is located.
At Novo Nordisk, our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases. With more than a 100-year heritage in diabetes, we are pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure chronic diseases.
We recognise and deeply respect the over 60,000 years of First Nations science and knowledge around medicine and health. First Nations people have long had an intimate understanding of the natural world, harnessing the medicinal properties of native plants and traditional practices to maintain health and wellbeing. This profound connection to the land and its resources has fostered a holistic approach to health that emphasises balance, community, and sustainability.
Our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of First Nations people and communities is informed by our RAP initiatives, community collaborations, involvement in the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) Pharma Collaborative Committee and collaborative learning across the industry. These help us deliver on our vision for Reconciliation and actively contribute to social change as we strive for equitable health outcomes in First Nations communities.
We focus on addressing chronic disease through advocacy, targeted projects and tailored medication distribution models, to help meet their specific needs.
Chronic disease is prevalent among First Nations people due to a complex interplay of historical trauma, socioeconomic disparities, cultural and lifestyle factors, environmental challenges, and barriers to healthcare access.1
Addressing health disparities among First Nations populations demands a comprehensive understanding of interconnected social, economic, and cultural factors. Novo Nordisk understands that it is essential to focus not only on clinical interventions, but also to take a holistic approach to address the root causes of health inequities.
In consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors and communities, we developed our Reconciliation Action Plans to formalise Novo Nordisk’s commitment to strengthening our understanding of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander and Australian colonial histories, creating meaningful and long-term relationships, and working together to find solutions to address health inequity.
In March 2025, Novo Nordisk established an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Advisory Council with the goal of improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living with diabetes, obesity, and related chronic conditions.
In a first for Australia’s pharmaceutical industry, Novo Nordisk’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Advisory Council comprises nine prominent healthcare professionals and academics with lived experiences, and/ or a deep understanding of chronic disease in Aboriginal health.
The council’s mission is to provide Novo Nordisk with independent and expert insights, strategic advice, and cultural guidance to foster better health outcomes within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
We enlisted the help of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned consultancy firm, The Bulwul Njindiwan Group (TBNG), to assemble and manage the Council.
“Establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Advisory Committee within Novo Nordisk allows us to create a platform, which gives voice back to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and our Communities. This initiative not only ensures that we are heard but also empowers us to shape the agenda and drive health outcomes that align with efforts to close the gap.”
Sian Graham, Bardi-Jawi and Noongar woman; Chair of Novo Nordisk’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Advisory Council.
This artwork symbolises Novo Nordisk's connection to history and investment in the future, reflecting the values established by the Novo Nordisk Way that have guided science and innovation over time.
The kangaroo tracks represent the tradition of storytelling in Aboriginal culture and the fast pace of progress, while the colors in the background symbolise Novo Nordisk's therapeutic areas of focus.
The large circular graphic represents traditional meeting places and the Novo Nordisk community, while native plants surrounding the graphic elements reflect support and commitment to improving physical health and wellbeing.
The arc-like symbols reflect generations, past and present scientists, doctors, governments and communities working together to enhance physical health and well-being. These elements come together to represent the Novo Nordisk community.