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.
Walking Together: NACCHO and Air Force Renew Their Commitment to Community-led Health
Yesterday, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) marked a significant step forward in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health by signing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the NACCHO offices on Ngunnawal and Ngambri lands in Canberra.
This partnership, rooted in respect, self-determination, and a shared vision for stronger communities, will see the Air Force and NACCHO continue to work side by side in supporting health and well-being across the country.
Central to this partnership is Exercise Kummundoo, a unique initiative that enables Air Force personnel to deploy into diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Under the guidance of local leaders, Air Force teams support community-led health initiatives, assist with essential infrastructure, and deepen their understanding of the strength, resilience, and leadership within community. This collaboration not only brings much-needed resources into remote areas but also fosters mutual learning and lasting relationships, ensuring that health solutions are shaped and led by those who know community best.
Reflecting on the significance of the partnership, NACCHO Board Chair Donnella Mills said:
“This partnership is about walking together in genuine collaboration to support healthier futures for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Through Exercise Kummundoo and ongoing cooperation, we recognise the value of sharing knowledge, building capability, and respecting the strengths and leadership within community.
We also acknowledge the deep contributions and sacrifices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who have served their communities, their country, and the Air Force with distinction. Today’s signing stands on the shoulders of their service and renews our shared commitment to a future led by community, culture, and respect.”
The Royal Australian Air Force, represented at the signing by Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM, also affirmed the enduring value of this partnership:
“The Royal Australian Air Force is proud to stand alongside NACCHO in renewing our commitment to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Exercise Kummundoo exemplifies the importance of partnership, learning, and respect, as Air Force personnel work hand-in-hand with community to deliver meaningful support.
We recognise the unique strengths, resilience, and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and are committed to listening, learning, and growing together.”
This renewed agreement continues a proud tradition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service, both in community and in the Air Force. It reflects the belief that true progress comes from respectful partnerships, mutual trust, and honouring the expertise that resides within community.
As Ms Mills affirmed, “NACCHO is proud to stand with the Air Force and our communities as we look to the future. When we work together, in true partnership, we create opportunities that are greater than the sum of their parts. The solutions are in community hands, guided by culture, wisdom, and a shared commitment to better health for all.”
As NACCHO and the Air Force move forward together, this partnership stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities lead, and all partners work in the spirit of respect, unity, and shared purpose.
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM (right) and National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Chairperson Donnella Mills formalise a renewed Memorandum of Understanding between the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). The formal signing of the Memorandum takes place at the NACCHO Offices in Canberra City.
Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance NT raises alarm over critical Bicillin shortage
The Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) says it is “deeply concerned” about the escalating shortage of Bicillin L-A and its alternatives; essential medicines used to treat and prevent rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and other serious conditions.
In July, with no warning, the sponsor of the temporary alternative for Bicillin L-A (Extencilline) announced that Australian supplies had been exhausted and further imports from France would not be possible. This has left health services struggling for solutions.
“The NT has some of the highest rates of rheumatic heart disease in the world. Thousands of people, particularly in rural and remote communities, rely on uninterrupted access to Bicillin for monthly injections to prevent recurrent acute rheumatic fever and other life-threatening complications. Without it, lives are at risk,” said AMSANT chief executive Dr John Paterson.
In Maningrida, general manager of the Mala’la Health Service Jessica Gatti is staring down the barrel of having to choose who does or doesn’t get the treatment.
“It’s not a decision any clinician wants to make,” she said.
“We have 174 to 178 people who receive bicillin for rheumatic heart disease on a 21 to 28 day cycle. We have 30 doses on hand.”
A limited supply of one alternative – Brancaster – is currently available, but it is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, meaning health services must purchase it privately at significant cost; around $66 per vial. Another potential substitute – Benzatacil – is still awaiting emergency (Section 19A) approval for use in Australia.
AMSANT urged urgent national coordination and government support to secure supply, fast-track approvals, and ensure affordable access to all appropriate alternatives.
Read the full National Indigenous Times article here.
Read the full ABC article here.
Jessica Gatti is the general manager at Mala’la Health Service. (Supplied: Mala’la Health Service Aboriginal Corporation)
Webinar: Developing a National Cardiovascular Disease, Renal Disease and Diabetes Strategy
ACCHOs in Rural Areas (MMM 3- 5) ACCHO program managers and staff, register now for the Developing a National Cardiovascular Disease, Renal Disease and Diabetes Strategy Webinar.
These sessions will explore how ACCHOs and mainstream services can work together to deliver culturally responsive care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Details:
- Monday 28 July (2-3pm AEST)
- Register here.
The Regional and Metropolitan (MMM 1- 2) webinar will be held on Wednesday 30 July.
Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre: Strong Born campaign behind the scenes
Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is proud to share some behind-the-scenes photos taken during the development of the ngayapi rrala / strong born campaign, led by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre’s Health Worker trainees.
This Aboriginal-led, community-driven initiative aims to improve health outcomes through culturally grounded, values-based messaging. By centering Aboriginal leadership and lived experience, the campaign fosters meaningful engagement and supports positive and healthy pregnancies embedded within community strengths and cultural knowledge.
Drawing on a values-based framing approach, the TAC Health Workers developed a series of carefully curated messages designed to inspire action, reduce stigma, and strengthen support for positive and healthy pregnancy practices.
These behind-the-scenes images capture just a small glimpse of the collaborative effort and deep thinking that has gone into the nyagpi rrala/ Strong Born campaign. We are incredibly proud of Brooke, Shari, Phil, Holly, Bianca, and Alex, whose leadership and commitment are bringing this powerful vision to life and engaging health promotion messages to communities across Lutruwita.
See all photos here.
Image source: Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre
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.
