Special considerations regarding family history collection and
Indigenous Australians or Torres Strait Islanders
- It is important to note that for families with an Indigenous Australian or Torres Strait background, the
concept of family history may hold a different meaning.
- When collecting a family history or drawing a pedigree for people with this background, consider issues
pertaining to the Lost and Stolen Generations. In some cases, this historical background will mean that
family history is unclear or unattainable.
- Kinship patterns within families of Indigenous Australian or Torres Strait heritage also require special
attention. For the purposes of genetic risk assessment, it is important to take the time to clarify whether
individuals within a family tree are biological relatives or not.
- Intra- and inter- familial adoptions should be considered when collecting a family history from someone
of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background.
- It is recommended to consult the Aborginal Liaison officers based in hospitals or public health units in
your State.
Under the Commonwealth’s Privacy Act 1988, a Temporary Public Interest Determination (No. 2001–1) allows health information to be collected from an individual about another individual (see http://www.privacy.gov.au/act/public_interest) in certain circumstances that include family history taking.