17 September 2024

The NACCHO Sector News is a platform we use to showcase the important work being done in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, focusing on the work of NACCHO, NACCHO members and NACCHO affiliates.

We also share a curated selection of news stories that are of likely interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, broadly.

Kimberley Aboriginal Men’s Health Gathering celebrates success

The Kimberley Regional Aboriginal Men’s Health Gathering, proudly hosted by the Kimberley Aboriginal Men’s Health Sub-Committee of the Kimberley Aboriginal Health Planning Forum, concluded successfully (on 12 September) after three days of critical discussions and collaboration at Djarindjin Campground on the Dampier Peninsula, Western Australia.

With the theme “STRONG MEN, Strong Culture, Strong Community,” the gathering brought together over 40 men each day, representing various Kimberley communities, services, and organisations. The gathering focused on key health and wellbeing issues, including cultural safety, role models, the importance of regular 715 health checks, alcohol and other drugs, family and domestic violence, and chronic disease. The event provided a platform for men to connect, share their experiences, and work towards a healthier future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men in the Kimberley. It aimed to strengthen Culture throughout life, improve health and wellbeing, and promote the use of culturally appropriate health services.

To read more, go here.

Photo of participants Kimberley Aboriginal Regional Men’s Health Gathering.

50 recommendations to ensure access to latest treatments

The federal government has released the final report of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review. The report makes 50 recommendations to improve access to new health technologies, tackle inequity, and simplify HTA processes for consumers and clinicians. It will inform decisions on funding and subsidising health technologies.

The government is also releasing the companion report, the Enhance HTA Report, which delivers 10 recommendations to elevate the consumer and patient voice in health technology assessment processes. An implementation group will be established to guide the HTA reform process.

To read the full article, go here.

Image credit: iStock.com/Nastco

Leave no‐one behind: reducing health disparities for women experiencing homelessness in Australia

The Medical Journal of Australia highlights the growing health disparities for homeless women, emphasising the urgent need for better prevention, early intervention, and trauma-informed care. Women experiencing homelessness face higher risks of violence, health issues, and barriers to accessing care.

Given the disproportionate rate of homelessness in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, and recognising intergenerational homelessness and the ongoing impacts of colonisation, cultural safety and trauma‐informed care are essential. Involvement and acknowledgement of the expertise of Aboriginal controlled organisations and Aboriginal health workers is vital for health services committed to providing equitable care.

To read the full article, go here.

(Image: The Medical Journal of Australia)

Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating 40 years of Aboriginal Women in Leadership

Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating 40 years of Aboriginal Women in Leadership with the “Strong Women, Strong Community, Leading the Way” conference in Nowra, NSW.

The conference will feature Waminda’s leadership team, keynote speakers, and community leaders, reflecting on Waminda’s journey, current achievements, and the future of Aboriginal women’s leadership, health, and well-being.

Listen to Cleone Wellington on Waminda’s 40 years of championing Aboriginal women’s voices in health and leadership here.

From left to right: Kristine Falzon, Chief Executive Leader – Policy & Operations; Lisa Wellington, Chief Executive Leader – Family & Community Client Services; Cleone Wellington – Chief Executive Leader – Culture & Connection; Hayley Longbottom, Chief Executive Leader – Health & Wellbeing.

NRL announce finalists for 2024 Veronica White Medal

The National Rugby League (NRL) has announced the finalists for the 2024 Veronica White Medal—Woman of the Year. This award recognises the efforts of an NRLW player who has achieved not only on the field but has also committed time off the field to community projects.

From an inspiring field of nominees, Kimberley Hunt (Dragons), Mahalia Murphy (Eels), Millie Elliott (Roosters), and Jaime Chapman (Titans) have been selected for going above and beyond in their commitment and contributions to their communities. They are also passionate advocates in the arenas of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and engagement and inclusion of all abilities.

To read the article in full, go here.

Credit: Image from http://www.nrl.com.

Federal boost for Yolngu business growth in East Arnhem

The Commonwealth government has invested an additional $500,000 to support Indigenous business development in East Arnhem Land, bringing its total commitment to $1 million over four years. The funds will go to Developing East Arnhem Limited (DEAL), which helps Yolngu-owned businesses with business planning, governance, financial support, and mentorship.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the investment to help bring about change in the community.

This initiative aims to empower Yolngu businesses, create jobs, and foster economic self-determination in the region.

To read the article in full, go here.

Caption: Minister McCarthy in Nhulunbuy. Credit: Image supplied.

Sector Jobs – you can see sector job listings on the NACCHO website here.

Advertising Jobs – to advertise a job vacancy click here to go to the NACCHO website current job listings webpage. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a Post A Job form. You can complete this form with your job vacancy details – it will then be approved for posting and go live on the NACCHO website.

ACCHO Governance Workshops: Katherine, NT

Free, specialised governance workshops for ACCHOs will be delivered in multiple locations across the country during 2024 and 2025.

Registrations are now open for Katherine for Wednesday 2 October and Thursday 3 October.

The program is delivered by legal experts and covers:

  • Delegation of powers
  • Finance for Boards
  • Governance documents
  • Managing conflicts of interest
  • Managing risk
  • Principles of good governance
  • Structure and role of boards and sub-committees

To register, go here.

For more information, please contact NACCHO using this email link.