Category Coalition of Peaks

NACCHO Sector News: 25 June 2025

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.

New partnership to boost healthcare on Country

A landmark five-year partnership looks set to transform Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare in remote communities across the Pilbara. The $5 million funding from Rio Tinto to the Pilbara Aboriginal Health Alliance will enhance vital Indigenous-led health care for families across the Pilbara and treat patients closer to Country.

For example, the new Tom Price Dialysis Unit – the partnership’s first project slated to open in 12-18 months – would provide transport, local accommodation and wraparound support for patients.

Construction of the renal dialysis unit, funded by the Federal Government, will operate six days a week and allow Aboriginal people to return home to Country while having treatment.

PAHA chief executive Ashley Councillor said the Rio partnership was significant for its community-led approach, with services tailored and enhanced to specific needs, priorities and aspirations of remote communities across the Pilbara.

Read more here.

Elder Kennedy Finlay at the PAMS Dialysis Centre in Newman.

Get the Facts: Supporting cervical screening in your community – webinar recording

This presentation was designed to provide education on self-collection in cervical screening and ways to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members with this option.

Webinar hosted by Kate Armstrong from NACCHO, with presenters:

  • Professor Marion Saville from the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC)
  • Nyheemah Cox from the Kimberly Aboriginal Medical Service (KAMS)
  • Dr Natalie Williamson from KAMS
  • Stephanie Long from Pika Wiya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Kylie Wagstaff from Albury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service
  • Sally Conte from NACCHO

*This is a combined recording from two webinars held in July and August 2024.

Watch it here.

Image source: Own It

‘Celebrating the depth of our knowledge systems’

‘It’s an opportunity to celebrate the depth of our knowledge systems and showcase the role of First Nations peoples as the original scientists, health workers, and researchers on this continent.’

That is according to Lowitja Institute CEO Paul Stewart, speaking of this month’s International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference.

The conference, held on Kaurna Country, Adelaide, from 16–19 June saw more than 1300 delegates gather to discuss health and wellbeing research from across Australia and internationally.

With more than 200 presentations, the conference prioritises First Nations voices, showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led research, community controlled health innovations, and intergenerational knowledge exchange.

Read more here.

Donnella Mills, National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Chair, giving her keynote address. (Image: Lowitja Institute, Dream Team Imaging)

Rural Australians’ ratings of Indigenous children’s books to support communication and literacy

Orange Aboriginal Medical Service (OAMS) co-presented on shared research ‘Rural Australians’ ratings of Indigenous children’s books to support communication and literacy’ at the recent Speech Pathology Australian National Conference in Adelaide.

The presentation from Sarah, CSU and OAMS CEO Jamie Newman was really well received, with Sarah saying that having Jamie’s voice really uplifted the impact of our message and inspired the audience.

Learn more about the conference here.

Image source: OAMS

‘Through Our Lens’ photo competition closing soon

Applications for the Coalition of Peaks First Nations-focused photography competition ‘Through Our Lens’ close this Friday 27 June.

Share the images that capture Country, culture, community, leadership, and/or transformation through your lens to win up to $1,500 in prizes.

Don’t miss out – submit your entry today.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 23 June 2025

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.

NACCHO announces 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship recipients

NACCHO is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship, delivered in partnership with Sanofi Australia. This scholarship is designed to support the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists, helping reduce financial barriers, increase representation in the workforce, and create culturally safe care pathways for communities.

The 2025 scholarship recipients are:

  • Dean Webber
  • Isaac Burgoyne
  • James Sowter
  • Zoe Forest
  • Heidi Robinson

These outstanding students were selected for their commitment to their studies and their strong ambition to improve community health outcomes as future pharmacy leaders.

Dr Dawn Casey, Deputy CEO of NACCHO, congratulated this year’s recipients: “These inspiring students are not just the future of pharmacy; they are the future of culturally responsive healthcare in this country. At NACCHO, we are committed to fostering the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists who will play a vital role in improving health equity and strengthening care in our communities. Congratulations to Isaac, Heidi, Zoe, James and Dean.”

Read the full media release here.

Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-Led Review of Closing the Gap

The Final Report of the first-ever Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led Review of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap is now available.

This Review is the first time Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have led a national assessment of how the Agreement is working on the ground. It puts our perspectives, experiences, and solutions front and centre.

The review engaged widely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the country, through surveys, submissions, community forums, and direct conversations and a clear message emerged: governments are not living up to their commitments. There’s a significant gap between what was committed to in the Agreement and what communities are experiencing.

The Review is a call to action. It makes clear, that for Closing the Gap to succeed, governments must share power, invest in communities, and follow through on their promises.

Read more here.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks

QAIHC calls for Queensland reset following Closing the Gap review

The Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) is calling for immediate reform and genuine partnership with government after an independent review found the National Agreement on Closing the Gap is failing to deliver on its commitments.

Gunggandji woman and QAIHC Chief Executive, Paula Arnol, said the findings confirmed long-held concerns from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities that governments are falling short of meaningful change.

“Closing the Gap isn’t just about policy, it’s about improving the health outcomes of our people,” Ms Arnol said.

“Without real change on the ground, the unacceptable gap in health outcomes will continue.”

Read more here.

Paula Arnol, QAIHC Chief Executive.

Blak Excellence recognised at 2025 Lowitja Institute Awards

The Lowitja Institute presented its 2025 Awards as part of the 4th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference, held on Kaurna Country in South Australia last week. The awards recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership across research, innovation and community-led health initiatives.

Lowitja Institute CEO Paul Stewart said the awards celebrate research that is culturally, ethically and intellectually strong, and that directly benefits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“Our Lowitja Institute Awards put a spotlight on Blak excellence in health research, and the outstanding contribution that our leaders and researchers make in improving the health and wellbeing of our peoples,” Mr Stewart said.

“Our award winners are leading examples of how Aboriginal-led research can achieve better outcomes that make a real difference in our communities.”

Read more here.

Lowitja Institute has recognised Indigenous leaders and researchers at its 2025 health and wellbeing awards.

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 4 June 2025

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.

2025 Elders Olympics

The 2025 Aboriginal Elders Olympics took place on 9 April at McCosker Fields in Inverell, with more than 400 Elders from across New South Wales participating in a series of games and social activities.

The Elders Olympics serves as a platform to honour the contributions of Indigenous Elders, promote cultural heritage, and strengthen community bonds. It offers participants an opportunity to engage in physical activity, social interaction, and cultural exchange.

Read more here.

Biripi Elders at the 2025 Elders Olympics. Image source: Biripi ACMC

 

What does transformation look like through your lens?

The Coalition of Peaks ‘Through Our Lens’ photography competition is looking for photos that highlight your personal connection to transformation.

Images that capture the journey, the progress, and future legacy of our communities.

Capture your connection and enter now. There are great prizes up for grabs – entries close on 13 June.

Find out more and enter the competition here.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks

Wakai Waian Healing celebrates a decade of Indigenous mental health leadership and growth

Wakai Waian Healing, a proudly Torres Strait Islander-owned and led mental health service, recently celebrated ten years of walking alongside community – providing culturally safe, trauma-informed care across Queensland’s regional, remote, and island communities.

Founded by Masig man Ed Mosby in 2014, Wakai Waian Healing began with just one man, one laptop, and “a belief that our stories, our ways, and our healing journey must be led by our own people”.

Now, Wakai Waian Healing has grown into a organisation with over 40 staff, proudly standing on both the mainland and in the Torres Strait.

A major milestone came with the establishment of the Torres Strait Island office on Thursday Island – “a true homecoming”. The Thursday Island team now plays a central role in delivering services across Zenadth Kes, ensuring Islander voices, leadership, and cultural knowledge are at the heart of healing.

Read more here.

Wakai Waian Healing founder Edward Mosby. Image: Jarred Cross.

New ambulances set to arrive across Cape York

Health workers in a remote Far North Indigenous community will respond faster to medical emergencies with a new ambulance to be used for time-critical patients.

A hospital-based ambulance has been delivered to Hope Vale, around 200km north of Cairns in southern Cape York, with Mapoon, Lockhart River, Aurukun and Kowanyama, to receive ambulances of their own soon.

The new vehicle means health staff will no longer be forced to rely on non-ambulance vehicles during emergencies, health minister Tim Nicholls said.

“This expansion of the Hospital Based Ambulance service into the Cape will see five clinics receive a fully kitted-out ambulance, along with training and education, for health staff to respond in their remote community,” Mr Nicholls said.

Read more here.

Hope Vale mayor Bruce Gibson, health minister Tim Nicholls, Member for Cook David Kempton and Hope Vale deputy mayor Barry Bowen during a recent visit to southern Cape York.

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.

Health, Climate & Our Future – Online Consultation for ACCHOs & ACCOs

Hey Mob, we want to hear from you! Climate change isn’t just something happening out there—it’s something we’re feeling in our Communities, in our health, and in the way we do our jobs. Join us for a deadly online yarn about how climate and environment shifts are impacting our ACCOs and ACCHOs, our way of working, and our ways of keeping Mob safe and strong.

Come along to one of the following upcoming sessions:

Session 1: Wednesday 11 June (3-4.30PM AEST)

Session 2: Friday 13 June (12-1.30PM AEST)

NACCHO Sector News: 19 May 2025

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.

Decolonising health to provide better care for patients

University of Adelaide senior researcher Kim O’Donnell said there’s currently an emphasis on a biomedical approach to health care, which treats individual parts rather than a person as a whole.

Dr O’Donnell said decolonising health care means a more holistic approach, led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing.

“Decolonised healthcare looks like what Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations were established for in the first place in the early 70s,” the Malyangapa and Barkindji woman told AAP.

“That is to provide a suite of healthcare in the one place that’s led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“That makes the journey much better and much safer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and comes from the place of health being delivered in a holistic way.”

Read the full NITV article here.

A health practitioner from Danila Dilba Health Service in Darwin. Cultural-informed care can make a world of difference for patients. Credit: SUPPLIED/PR IMAGE

What is Priority Reform One of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap?

Priority Reform One of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap is all about formal partnerships and shared decision-making between governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Priority Reform One focuses on changing the way governments work, making sure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are fully involved in decisions that affect their lives, at the national, state, regional and local levels.

It’s about recognising and embedding the leadership, expertise, and commitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the work to close the gap.

Learn more here.

Gija mother-daughter duo leading rural health change

Dr Ellen Engelke, a Curtin Medical School graduate, and her mother Dr Catherine Engelke, a Curtin School of Nursing alumna and Senior Medical Officer in Kununurra, are contributing to better health outcomes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The Gija women have pursued careers in medicine that reflect their commitment to community and country.

Dr Ellen Engelke was supported during her studies by the Australian Rotary Health Indigenous Scholarship, which allowed her to focus on her goals and influenced her desire to give back.

For her, medicine is driven by a sense of purpose shaped by family and community.

“Mum studied while I was young, and I remember watching her practice clinical exams on me,” she said.

“She never pressured me to follow in her footsteps, but seeing her journey made me believe that if she could do it, so could I.”

Dr Catherine Engelke began her career in nursing, completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Nursing (Midwifery) at Curtin in 1996 before becoming a doctor.

“I wanted them to know they could achieve anything they set their minds to,” she said.

Read the full National Indigenous Times article here.

Gija mother and daughter Dr Catherine and Dr Ellen Engelke are improving rural and Indigenous health through medicine. (Image: Curtin University)

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.

Maximise Medicare for your ACCHO!

NACCHO, with support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency has free online courses to help ACCHO staff improve Medicare claiming and utilisation of other primary care funding sources.

Earn CPD points! These courses are fully accredited by RACGP, ACRRM, & NAATSIWHIP.

To register, go here.

For more information, go here.

NACCHO Sector News: 16 May 2025

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.

NACCHO Welcomes Ministerial Appointments and Reaffirms Commitment to Closing the Gap

The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) congratulates Senator, the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy on her continued leadership as Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Mark Butler MP on his appointment as Minister for Health and Ageing and his additional responsibility as Minister for Disability and the NDIS, the Hon Emma McBride MP on her reappointment as Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, and the Hon Rebecca White MP on her new federal roles as Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, and Assistant Minister for Women. Additionally, we congratulate the Hon Marion Scrymgour MP on her appointment as Special Envoy for Remote Communities.

These ministerial appointments come at a crucial time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and NACCHO looks forward to enhanced collaboration with the Australian Government to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Pat Turner AM, CEO of NACCHO, said:

“NACCHO congratulates all Ministers on their appointments and looks forward to collaborating closely on policies and initiatives that directly benefit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. As Prime Minister Albanese has emphasised, ‘We will be a government that supports reconciliation with First Nations people, because we will be a stronger nation when we close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.’ NACCHO remains committed to working in partnership with the government to ensure health programs and services effectively meet the needs and aspirations of our communities.”

Ms Turner added, “Closing the Gap requires a united, whole-of-government approach, and these appointments represent an encouraging step toward achieving meaningful, sustainable improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing.”

Image source: NACCHO

Yappera Children’s Service becomes VACCHO’s newest Asssociate Member

The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is excited to announce that Yappera Children’s Service Co-operative has become its latest Associate Member.

Since opening in 1981, Yappera Children’s Service Co-Operative has been providing high quality, culturally grounded and holistic health and education programs.

Yappera, which means “Belonging Place” is a gathering, learning and wellbeing space for Aboriginal children, their parents, carers, families and Community in Thornbury, Melbourne.

VACCHO CEO Dr Jill Gallagher AO, says she is excited to work with the Yappera team to support its range of programs and services for children and their families.

“It’s a great pleasure to welcome Yappera to the VACCHO family and to become our thirty-forth member.”

“Supporting our Members in the delivery of high-quality, culturally safe health and social services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community is a goal we all share, and I know Yappera will be a valued Member,” Dr Gallagher said.

Read more here.

Image source: VACCHO

‘Through Our Lens’ Coalition of Peaks photo competition

The Coalition of Peaks invites Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander photographers to take part in the Through Our Lens photo competition—celebrating the strength, culture, connection and leadership of our people.

In a search for powerful images that capture ties to Country, community, and the changes shaping our future.

Winning and selected photos will feature across Coalition of Peaks communications—helping build a community-led image library for Closing the Gap and reflecting the diversity of who we are and how we see the world.

Entries close 13 June 2025.

To learn more, go here.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks

Abstract submissions for the 10th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium closing soon

Abstract submissions for the 10th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium close in 2 weeks – Friday 30 May!

With the theme ‘Research from the heart – shaping rural & remote health futures’, the 10th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium will be held in Alice Springs, 8–9 October 2025.

If you have research findings, case studies, or innovative models of care to share, this is your chance to contribute to a growing national movement dedicated to improving rural and remote health.

The Symposium is your opportunity to:
– Present and translate your research
– Build connections and collaborations
– Learn from emerging rural, remote and Indigenous health research

Learn more here.

Image source: National Rural Health Alliance

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 13 May 2025

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.

 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders: Closing the Gap needs all of government

Malarndirri McCarthy’s continuation as Minister for Indigenous Australians has been welcomed by the Coalition of Peaks, as they call for a more government-wide contribution to Closing the Gap.

Just over a week after Labor’s landslide election victory, the peak representative body for more than 80 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations called on all ministers in the new cabinet to take responsibility in their portfolios for Closing the Gap.

Lead convenor Pat Turner AM congratulated Senator McCarthy on being re-appointed as Minister, but argued that Closing the Gap was not the responsibility of her portfolio alone.

“The Coalition of Peaks have a great working relationship with Senator McCarthy, and since coming into the role last year, she has re-energised the government’s Closing the Gap commitments,” Ms Turner said.

“Under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, the Government committed to doing things differently – to share decision-making with our people and work in partnership. From Ministers to frontline services, all parts of government must be actively improving the way they work with our people.”

In assessing the election victory, she said the result showed the nation had chosen “progress and inclusion over division”.

Read the full article here.

Pat Turner (centre) speaks alongside Malarndirri McCarthy and Scott Wilson earlier this year.

Pat Turner (centre) speaks alongside Malarndirri McCarthy and Scott Wilson earlier this year.

Every moment matters’ when it comes to alcohol and pregnancy. Here’s why healthcare professionals need to be informed

Content warning: This article contains reference to suicide. Please refer to the services at the bottom of this article for support.

Ange Bruce, biological mother of a child with FASD, uses her lived experience to advocate for alcohol-free pregnancies. Facing childhood trauma and her mother’s death, Ange was at high risk for alcohol issues. Despite rehab and a relapse during an unexpected pregnancy, she quit drinking for her son, experiencing dangerous withdrawal. Her son was diagnosed with FASD at three. Ange regrets the lack of support she received during pregnancy. Now a Lived Experience Advisor with FARE, she passionately advocates for others, sharing her son’s positive outcome with early diagnosis and support.

Read the full story here.

If this article brought up anything for you or someone you love, please reach out to, call or visit the resources listed below for support.

13YARN – Call 13 92 76 | 24 /7 Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

Call 13YARN (13 92 76) We are here to provide crisis support 24/7 to yarn with you without judgement and provide a confidential, culturally safe space to yarn about your needs, worries or concerns….

Angelene (Ange) Bruce, the biological mother of a thriving child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Angelene (Ange) Bruce, the biological mother of a thriving child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Clinical yarning training offered to Mid West health staff to improve communication with Aboriginal patients

Almost 200 health workers in Geraldton and Mullewa have taken part in “clinical yarning” training, in a bid to help them better communicate with Aboriginal patients and their families.

The WA Centre for Rural Health’s (WACRH) clinical yarning implementation research team and the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) have joined forces to provide this training to clinical health staff across the Mid West.

Described as a “yarn with a purpose”, the training method is a tool to help clinicians “achieve effective patient-centred communication that is more culturally secure for Aboriginal patients and their families”.

Read the full article here.

Clinical yarning workshop facilitators Associate Professor Ivan Lin and Kelsie Crowe with WA Country Health Service clinical staff Shanna Jacobie, Florence Khimbi, Jennifer Ryan and Olga Antonova at Mullewa Health Centre. Credit: WA Centre for Rural Health

Clinical yarning workshop facilitators Associate Professor Ivan Lin and Kelsie Crowe with WA Country Health Service clinical staff Shanna Jacobie, Florence Khimbi, Jennifer Ryan and Olga Antonova at Mullewa Health Centre. Credit: WA Centre for Rural Health

Decolonise health’: New report backs First Nations-led care

A new report has indicated First Peoples are losing trust in the health system, with decolonising needed in primary health care to ensure cultural safety.

Funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Decolonising Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Project (2018-2024) has highlighted the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care services and how decolonising strategies offer a holistic health care approach.

It argues decolonising involves “addressing the social, political and cultural determinants to include the emotional, physical, environmental, and spiritual aspects of a person’s health and wellbeing,” and advocates for policy makers across the board the strengthen their relationships with First Nations health care providers.

Dr Kim O’Donnell, a Malyangapa/Barkindji woman and senior researcher at the University of Adelaide, argues the way many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people view health, encompassing spiritual, social, emotional and physical wellbeing, differs markedly from mainstream health models.

She says decolonising health care practices is a way forward where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can become agents of change.

View the full article here.

A new report has indicated First Peoples are losing trust in the health system, with decolonising needed in primary health care to ensure cultural safety.

A new report has indicated First Peoples are losing trust in the health system, with decolonising needed in primary health care to ensure cultural safety.

Grant opportunity: Aged Care Capital Assistance Program – CLOSES Tues 20.5.25

This grant opportunity will provide grant funding for infrastructure projects that will:

  • maintain or improve access to quality residential-based aged care services in:
    • regional, rural and remote locations (MM 2-7)
    • metropolitan locations (MM 1) where these services will provide specialised or targeted care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders
  • deliver staff accommodation that supports residential-based aged care service provision in regional, rural and remote locations (MM 2-7).

It is designed to support providers in thin markets, where escalating building costs coupled with the ongoing costs of aged care delivery, including recruitment and retention, may limit opportunities to undertake infrastructure projects to support the delivery of quality and safe residential care services.

View Grant here.

 

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 12 May 2025

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.

Tamworth Regional Council signs ‘historic’ deal with Aboriginal communities to close the gap

Tamworth has become the first Australian town to launch a “historic” partnership between the local council and Aboriginal organisations that will embed Closing the Gap targets into local government processes.

The Mara Ngali partnership — meaning “two hands” in the language of the Gomeroi people — was officially signed on Friday by representatives of Tamworth Regional Council and local Aboriginal community-controlled organisations.

Pat Turner, Coalition of Peaks lead convenor and NACCHO CEO, said the partnership was a landmark moment that was led by First Nations people at a local level.

“This is a historic first. Never before has a local government made such a formal and genuine commitment to close the gap in partnership with our people,” she said in a statement.

“This is what self-determination looks like — the Aboriginal community driving change, with governments walking alongside us, and real accountability built in from the ground up.”

Aunty Catherine Trindall, the chairperson of the Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service, said the agreement won’t be the solution to every challenge, but it will be a “springboard” for meaningful change.

Read the full article here.

Aunty Catherine Trindall hopes the partnership will create lasting change for the next generation. (ABC News: Liana Boss)

Record ACCHO attendance at first of three 2025 Indigenous Health Service Pharmacy Support Program workshops run by NACCHO

On 8 May, NACCHO hosted over 30 sector representatives on Dharawal Country at Novotel, Sydney Airport. The group discussed the Indigenous Health Service Pharmacy Support (IHSPS) program and how to maximise the program’s impact for community, but also covered a broad range of medicines and pharmacy-related issues, such as the CTG PBS co-payment program and how to support pharmacists being integrated into ACCHOs.

The session was an overwhelming success, with total workshop numbers exceed any previous IHSPS event. Conversations were rich with shared knowledge about what is working well for communities and what could be improved. There was great opportunity for networking between ACCHOs throughout the day.

To learn more about what NACCHO is doing to support members with medicines, go here.  

COVID is still around and a risk to vulnerable people. What are the symptoms in 2025? And how long does it last?

Most people who get COVID today will experience only a mild illness. But some people are still at risk of severe illness and are more likely to be hospitalised with COVID. This includes older people, those who are immunocompromised by conditions such as cancer, and people with other health conditions such as diabetes.

Typical early symptoms of COVID included fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and shortness of breath. These have remained the most common COVID symptoms across the multiple variant waves.

Testing is particularly important if you experience COVID-like symptoms or were recently exposed to someone with COVID and are at high-risk of severe COVID. You might require timely treatment.

Vaccination against COVID continues to be one of the most effective ways to prevent COVID and protect against it. Most people in Australia have had at least one dose of the COVID vaccine. But if you haven’t, people over 18 years of age are recommended to have a COVID vaccine. Check your status and eligibility using this booster eligibility tool and you can access your vaccine history here.

Read the full article here.

Image source: Katherine West Health Board

Indigenous Visiting Research Fellowship

ALIGN aims to deliver equity and benefit to Indigenous Australians through genomics. To contribute to this aim, the ALIGN Victoria team is thrilled to announce the WEHI Indigenous Visiting Research Fellowship. The successful candidate will join a project which focuses on understanding advanced genomic and multi-omic technologies that support successful diagnoses for Indigenous patients with rare immune conditions.

This will be based at the WEHI Parkville Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Flexible funding of up to $300,000 over a two-year period is available, including potential for relocation assistance. For more information, please visit our website here.

If you are an Indigenous postgraduate researcher, scientist, or clinician interested in research, please consider applying here.

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.

Maximise Medicare for your ACCHO!

NACCHO, with support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency has free online courses to help ACCHO staff improve Medicare claiming and utilisation of other primary care funding sources.

Earn CPD points! These courses are fully accredited by RACGP, ACRRM, & NAATSIWHIP.

To register, go here.

For more information, go here.

NACCHO Sector News: 7 May 2025

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.

‘Time for the rubber to hit the road’: Pat Turner calls on re-elected Labor government to step up

In the wake of the Albanese government’s landslide re-election, the longtime advocate, CEO of NACCHO, and convenor of the Coalition of Peaks is calling for stronger leadership on Closing the Gap.

She warns that key targets won’t be met unless governments fundamentally change how they work with First Nations communities.

“I expect [much] stronger leadership from the second term of the Labor government when it comes to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap,” Turner told Karla Grant on Living Black.

Turner says real change will only come when funding is tied to reform — and when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations are not sidelined by bureaucracy, but properly empowered to lead the work

Read the full article here.

Aunty Pat Turner says she expects stronger leadership from the second term of the Labor government when it comes to Closing the Gap. Source: AAP / LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE

Tom Calma call to change Indigenous Closing the Gap strategy

The decade-long national agreement on Closing the Gap signed in 2020 includes a promise to invest heavily in community-controlled Aboriginal organisations so they can do the work in key areas, including Indigenous health, child protection and crime prevention. This is based on evidence that results are often better when the service provider is a local Aboriginal organisation with locals on its board.

However, Tom Calma, whose 2005 social justice report inspired Kevin Rudd to create the first Closing the Gap agreement, says community-controlled organisations should not be bolstered at the expense of all else.

The former social justice commissioner says big numbers of Indigenous Australians use main­stream services and there should be a focus on ensuring those deliver what they are paid to deliver.

“Those community-­controlled organisations by and large deliver a great service but we need to look at a move away from just investing in community-­controlled Indigenous organisations and work much more with the private and public systems to ensure their services are culturally sound and safe,” Professor Calma told The Australian on Tuesday.

Read the full article here.

Aboriginal leader Tom Calma. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

New campaign urges greater awareness and screening for cervical cancer in First Nations communities

Four of Australia’s leading health organisations recently joined forces with the federal government to ensure no one is left behind in the drive to eliminate cervical cancer in Australia.

The Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC), the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), ACON and the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative have united in a new federally funded campaign – the Own It campaign – to improve cervical screening rates by highlighting Australia’s world-leading HPV self-collect test.

NACCHO Deputy CEO Dr Dawn Casey said the new national campaign is “a significant step forward in raising awareness about cervical screening within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities”.

“It builds on the successful implementation of human papillomavirus (HPV) self-collection already taking place in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations,” she said.

Read more here.

Lowanna with a self screening kit. Image: Own It.

New leadership for PSA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Practice CSI

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is proud to announce the appointment of a new leadership group for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Practice (ATSIPP) Community of Specialty Interest (CSI), chaired by respected pharmacist and proud Nywaigi Mamu woman, Chastina Heck MPS.

The ATSIPP CSI plays a vital role in championing culturally safe pharmacy practices, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists, and improving health outcomes across communities. With the appointment of this new leadership group, PSA reaffirms its commitment to equity, representation, and empowering Indigenous voices within the profession. PSA recognises culturally safe care and equity of health care access as critical drivers to improving health outcomes.

he 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Practice CSI Leadership Group includes:

  • Chastina Heck MPS (Chair)
  • Atinuke (Tinu) Abraham MPS
  • Jaimee Anderson MPS
  • Carli Berrill MPS
  • Jenny Cooper MPS
  • Hannah Mann (NACCHO)
  • Dr Jared Miles MPS
  • Yvette McGrath MPS
  • Alice Nugent MPS
  • Mike Stephens MPS
  • Cheyne Sullivan MPS
  • Kelly Tanner MPS
  • Shi-Anne Wallace (inaugural NAPSA Indigenous Chair)
  • Lisa Wark MPS
  • Lucky Zeniou MPS

Read more here.

Image source: Pharmaceutical Society of Australia

4th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference 2025: Donnella Mills keynote speaker

Lowitja Institute is proud to welcome Donnella Mills as a keynote speaker at the 4th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference 2025.

A proud Torres Strait Islander woman with family ties to Masig and Nagir, Donnella is the Chair of NACCHO, a strong advocate for justice and community controlled health, and a dedicated legal professional. Her career spans frontline legal work, pioneering health justice partnerships, and national leadership roles that continue to shape policy and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For more information and the conference and to register, go here.

Image source: Lowitja Institute

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 6 May 2025

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.

Living Black: Pat Turner – Keep Fighting

Pat Turner, NACCHO CEO and Coalition of Peaks Lead Convenor has had an illustrious career in the public service. Now in the wake of the 2025 Federal Election she speaks to Karla Grant about how she plans to keep on fighting for First Nations people.

Watch it here.

Pat Turner and Karla Grant. Image source: Coalition of Peaks.

‘Enough is enough’: Calls for ACT inquiry into Aboriginal deaths in custody

Winnunga Nimmityjah health service chief executive Julie Tongs, a Wiradjuri woman, said continued deaths in custody had caused widespread pain, fear, and anger.

Ms Tongs said Aboriginal families and affected community members were united in demanding a full and independent inquiry into “these devastating and unacceptable losses”.

Winnunga Nimmityjah provides health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander detainees in the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

Ms Tongs led calls in 2021 for a board of inquiry to examine the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT’s justice system.

“We are not asking for another review or another roundtable discussion. We are demanding a Board of Inquiry with real power to investigate systemic failures, demand accountability and drive the reform we have been calling for,” Ms Tongs said.

Read the full article here.

Detainee Keith Carberry’s loved ones are afraid for his safety inside the jail. His grandmother Narelle King (left) and Winnunga Nimmityjah’s Julie Tongs with his sister Sianna Eland and partner Rachael Allen. Picture by Gary Ramage

Celebrating 30 years of dedication: Honouring Marcia Greddon’s legacy at Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service

This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service’s most respected and enduring team members — Marcia Greddon — who celebrates 30 years of service, commitment, and care to the East Kimberley community.

From her early days at reception to becoming a qualified Aboriginal Health Practitioner, Marcia’s journey has been one of determination, growth, and deep cultural connection. Her story is a testament to what it means to work from the heart, for her people.

Read more here.

From left to right: CEO Mary Baird, Marcia Greddon, OVAHS Chairperson Shirleyann Wilson

Maximise Medicare for your ACCHO!

NACCHO, with support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency has free online courses to help ACCHO staff improve Medicare claiming and utilisation of other primary care funding sources.

Earn CPD points! These courses are fully accredited by RACGP, ACRRM, & NAATSIWHIP.

To register, go here.

For more information, go here.

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.

NACCHO Sector News: 1 May 2025

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.

That’s a wrap on the National Yarning Circle 2025!

Over two powerful days on Kaurna Country, we’ve come together to honour Elders, strengthen culture-led aged care, and weave the wisdom of community into the future of care.

From dementia care grounded in culture, to navigating aged care reforms and measuring what matters, voices from across the country shared truth, strategy, and strength.

Workshops like “What’s Strong, Not What’s Wrong” reframed ageing through a cultural and strengths-based lens.

Culture Weave sessions brought generations together in quiet reflection and connection.

Together, we’re not just talking aged care, we’re leading it. The Elder Care Support Program is proof that when community leads, everyone is better cared for.

Thank you to every Elder, connector, carer and voice in the room. Onward, together.

Learn more about the National Yarning Circle here.

Learn more about the Elder Care Support program here.

Image source: NACCHO.

Don’t miss this powerful yarn with our CEO, Pat Turner AM

From a lifetime of public service to leading the Coalition of Peaks and NACCHO, Pat Turner has been at the forefront of the fight for First Nations justice. Tune in to Living Black with Karla Grant Monday 5 May, 8:30pm on NITV, as she reflects on her journey, shares her hopes for the 2025 Federal Election, and calls for change led by our people.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks.

New program to support healing and recovery from family, domestic and sexual violence in the Big Rivers region

Katherine West Health Board, in partnership with Wurli-Wurlinjang Health Service, Sunrise Health Service and NT Health, will soon accept referrals to their pilot program to support women and children across the Big Rivers region to heal and recover from family, domestic and sexual violence.

The pilot program has been funded and commissioned by Northern Territory Primary Health Network with funding received from the federal Department of Health and Aged Care.

The three Aboriginal community-controlled health services in the region, together with NT Health, have a long history and wide-ranging experience providing culturally safe health care and social and emotional wellbeing services to the Big Rivers communities.

Read the National Indigenous Times article here.

NT PHN chief executive Gill Yearsley. Image: NT News.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via www.1800RESPECT.org.au, or text 0458 737 732.

If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit  http://www.ntv.org.au

Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter, call 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Galangoor Duwalami Primary Health Care Service CEO Steven Ober receives Order of Australia

Galangoor Duwalami Primary Health Care Service was proud to see CEO Stevan Ober receive his Order of Australia medal at this week’s Investiture at Government House. Stevan has worked tirelessly for the community and the health sector, following in the footsteps of his Mum.

Image source: Galangoor Duwalami Primary Health Care Service

Deadly Choices and Dolphins continue to champion community health in 2025

Deadly Choices, an initiative of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health’s (IUIH), empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to eat nutritious food, be physically active, quit smoking or vaping and connect with their local Community Controlled Health Service (CCHS) for a regular 715 Health Check. A 715 Health Check is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific health check which identifies key areas of risk.

In particular, the Dolphins partnership supports Deadly Choices’ Moreton Bay and North Brisbane footprint through the Moreton Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (Moreton ATSICHS).

In 2025, the partnership will again promote the highly anticipated Deadly Choices x Dolphins health check shirts, featuring three new exclusive designs. The shirts are utilised as an impactful incentive to encourage community members to complete a 715 Health Check at their local CCHS and take home a free and exclusive shirt.

Read more here.

Image source: Deadly Choices

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.