From exclusion to engagement and enrolment: single institutional experience of recruiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for a genomic sequencing study

Abstract

Indigenous peoples remain under‐represented in genomic research and clinical trials. This reflects historical exclusion, mistrust and health system barriers. In this article, we describe a single Australian institution's experience in improving engagement and enrolment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in a cancer genomic sequencing study. We reflect on challenges related to rapport, consent and enrolment and outline practical strategies including relationship‐building, targeted resources and a tailored enrolment pathway. We contend that equitable participation in genomic research requires sustained, trust‐based and culturally specific engagement, rather than reliance on purely technical or procedural solutions.