Indigenous leaders, health experts, and policymakers have gathered in Canberra to stress the urgent need for greater education and support around Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

FASD disproportionately affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, with lifelong impacts on physical ability, language, memory, learning, and behaviour.

On Monday, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (NOFASD), the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) and FASD HUB came together at Parliament House.

The event included an address from Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler and a panel discussion featuring NACCHO Board Chair Donnella Mills, who said community leadership was central to change.

"When we give our young people the right support from the start, we are investing in their futures and in stronger, safer communities," Ms Mills said.

"This is more than awareness, it's about action that ensures no family is left without the help they need, no matter where they live."

FASD, caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, is widespread among First Nations children in detention.

NACCHO says awareness, early detection, and culturally informed support are key to ensuring people with FASD are "better understood, valued and given the chance to live life to their full potential".

NACCHO CEO Pat Turner said governments must back approaches already proven to work in communities.

"Our communities have led the way in responding to FASD for decades," she said.

NACCHO's Strong Born campaign works with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations nationwide to deliver strengths-based health information, safe conversations, and prevention strategies aimed at breaking down the shame, blame, and stigma that can stop families seeking help.

"We know what works: culturally informed care, early diagnosis, and wrap-around support for families," Ms Turner said.

"The justice system must see FASD as a health issue, not a criminal one, and work alongside us to ensure our people get the care they need."

More information about FASD can be found online.