Category Social determinants

NACCHO Sector News: 9 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.

Community-led solutions key as new data reveals Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people suffer one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world

Almost one in six (15.5 per cent) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have diabetes and one in four (25.7 per cent) have abnormally high total cholesterol levels, according to data released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

“One in six adults with diabetes, and that being higher in remote areas is shocking,” says Dr Jason Agostino, NACCHO Senior Medical Advisor.

“They’re some of the highest rates of diabetes in the world and three times higher than non-Indigenous Australians.”

Early detection is critical – “With new treatments available, people with diabetes can live long, healthy lives, but the first step is to visit your local clinic for a health check to understand your risk.”

NACCHO is committed to strengthening the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce to tackle chronic diseases like diabetes.

“Through the First Nations Traineeship Program, we are on track to train 500 new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.

“Improving access to Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services is also key to reducing diabetes rates.”

You can read the National Indigenous Times article here, the Australia article here, and the AAP article here.

Image source: NACCHO

Labor’s win an opportunity to accelerate action on health outcomes in the NT

The peak body for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in the Northern Territory has welcomed Labor’s win in the federal election, calling it an opportunity to “accelerate action” on closing the gap challenges.

On Thursday, the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) congratulated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on his election win, saying they “look forward to continuing to work” with the Government to “strengthen First Nations health outcomes as a matter of priority”.

The latest data for the NT showed life expectancy for First Nations women has gone backwards, as well as targets around employment, birthweight, early childhood education, child development, and youth engagement.

There has also been a regression in the targets around adult incarceration and youth detention, whilst the target to increase the rate of babies born at a healthy weight is also unlikely to be met.

“This election result presents an opportunity to accelerate action on those challenges,” AMSANT said.

Read more here.

Image: Josh Bean/Unsplash.

Positive reforms to GlassesSA for Mob

The DHS Concessions Department recently made further significant reforms to the GlassesSA subsidised spectacle scheme in keeping with their ongoing commitment to increasing access to free or low-cost glasses for Aboriginal people in South Australia.

In 2020, GlassesSA had made prescription glasses free for Aboriginal subsidy applicants but there were still Centrelink eligibility limitations, and many instances where remote area applications were being rejected based on a technicality.

Too many people with poor vision were missing the simple fix of glasses, so AHCSA’s Eye Health Project Officer (EHPO) took steps to work with DHS to fully understand these issues with the Scheme and their ground level impacts and the urgent need for a solution.

These efforts included:

  • Raising at meetings of the SA Aboriginal Eye Health Working Group (SAAEHWG), of which GlassesSA hold membership;
  • Setting up independent meetings between EHPO & the Department of Human Services (DHS), and bringing in key outreach optometrists.
  • AHCSA collaborating with DHS to modify the Aboriginal-specific GlassesSA promotional material
  • EHPO travelled throughout SA with the new posters/flyers to conduct a statewide GlassesSA promotional ‘roadshow’, to promote the Scheme to a lot more locations, seek feedback from GlassesSA participating providers along the way, and report all the feedback and findings to GlassesSA at the end.

Read more here.

Image source: AHCSA

Wuchopperen launches positive push for Flu vaccinations

Wuchopperen Health Service in Cairns has launched its “YES! I’m Ready for Flu Season” campaign, promoting flu vaccinations through empowering, community-driven messaging.

Moving away from fear-based approaches, the campaign focuses on protecting health and culture through positive choices. It features trusted Wuchopperen staff members, helping build confidence through familiar faces.

“A flu vaccination each year helps to keep our community and ourselves healthy,” said Dr. Nicci Roux, Director of Medical Services.

“It protects us against the flu virus going around this year, and is especially important protection for our elders, pregnant women, and young kids.”

Read more here.

Image source: Wuchopperen Health Service

Registrations for SNAICC’25 are now open!

The SNAICC National Conference will be held at the Brisbane Convention & Entertainment Centre in Meanjin/Brisbane from 7-9 October 2025.  The theme this year is Our Culture. Keep it Strong. We Belong, highlighting the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. This event is one of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander conferences in the country with over 2000 delegates from more than 400 organisations.

SNAICC’25 gives community organisations, policy makers, researchers, educators, front line support workers, government representatives and students the opportunity to gather and share knowledge and experience while renewing commitment to building systems and practices that support children and families to thrive.

Register now (Early Bird rates available until 30 May).

Image source: SNAICC

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: 28 April 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.

AMSANT calls for national commitment to Closing the Health Gap ahead of Federal Election

The Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) is calling for on all political parties to reaffirm their commitment to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and to support better health outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians ahead of the Federal Election.

AMSANT CEO, Dr John Paterson, said the peak body is seeking meetings with all parties to discuss ways to uphold the Closing the Gap targets on First Nations-led service delivery and improving health outcomes.

“Stronger healthcare builds stronger communities,” Dr Paterson said.

“Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) have been central to improving the health of Aboriginal communities in the NT, but progress is too slow – held back by deep inequities in housing, education, poverty and other social determinants of health.

“We need a government that is willing to face these health gaps and meaningfully support the ACCHS sector, where they need it. The upcoming Federal Election provides an opportunity for all parties to recommit to the National Agreement and to act on the recommendations of the Productivity Commission’s Review of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap (2024).”

Read the full media release here.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services chief executive John Paterson. (Image: Mitch Woolnough/ABC News)

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.

Amid high cigarette prices Tjuntjuntjarra locals call for help for smokers to quit

Across Australia, about 8.8% of adults smoke every day. In remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the figure shoots to 46%. But in Tjuntjuntjara, community leaders fear smoking rates are far higher.

Community chief executive Jon Lark says the community urgently needs support to lower smoking rates, improve health outcomes and reduce reliance on some of the most expensive cigarettes in the country.

Read the article here.

Contact Quitline for help to quit smoking and vaping: 13 78 48

Tjuntjuntjara is one of Australia’s most remote communities. (ABC News: Sharon Gordon)

WA Aboriginal Youth Conference travel scholarship applications closing soon

Travel scholarship applications for the WA Aboriginal Youth Conference are closing soon on Friday, 2 May. If you’re travelling from a remote or regional area to attend the WA Aboriginal Youth Conference, support is available to help get you there. To apply go here.

The WA Aboriginal Youth Conference is an exclusive one-day event for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander youth to learn, speak up and discuss important issues in our communities. It provides an opportunity for personal and professional development, inspiration and connection with other like-minded young people.

Image source: AHCWA

Kaartajin Ngundabut Indigenous Cultural Knowledge

The second in a three-part video series, providing foundational learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural knowledges, and exploring contemporary global issues, is now available.

This series will encourage self-reflection on individual roles as a student, emerging psychologist or researcher, and how to be a better ally, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and social justice.

Watch it here.

Image source: AIPEP

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: 22 April 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.

What is Closing the Gap?

Australia has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. On average, Australians live to see their 83rd birthday. But for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, life expectancy is about eight years less. Closing the Gap is a national agreement designed to change that. By improving the health and wellbeing of First Nations, they can enjoy the same quality of life and opportunities as non-Indigenous Australians.

According to the latest Productivity Commission report, there’s been some progress. Eleven out of 19 targets have seen improvement. But only five are currently on track.

There are some encouraging signs: more babies are being born at a healthy weight, and more young people are finishing Year 12 or an equivalent qualification.

But some areas, like suicide rates and adult incarceration, are going backwards.

“We need to stick at it,” Pat Turner NACCHO CEO and Coalition of Peaks Lead Convenor says.

“Closing the Gap is not about statistics. It’s about real lives and strong families and brighter futures… It’s about reassuring that our children grow up to be healthy and proud and connected to their culture”.

Read the full article here.

Pat Turner speaks to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: AAP / LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE

Working together for healthy homes

Earlier this month, Minum Barreng: Indigenous Eye Health Unit (IEHU) partnered with Anyinginyi Health Aboriginal Corporation to co-host the “Working together for healthy homes” workshop in Tennant Creek.

IEHU welcomed Community members, representatives from NACCHO, Katherine West Health Board, and Central Australian Aboriginal Congress Aboriginal Corporation, and other key stakeholders to discuss actions for improving healthy homes across the region over the next 12-24 months.

Image source: IEHU

New research highlights rural diabetes gaps

New research is sounding the alarm on the urgent need to improve diabetes care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly in rural and remote areas.

The study, supported by the Australian General Practice Research Foundation and Diabetes Australia, analysed health data to understand outcomes for more than 5000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients across 427 general practices between 2011 and 2022.

Despite strong engagement in general practice, the study revealed rural patients are continuing to experience increased risk of complications, such as heart disease and kidney failure, due to blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

The research team stresses that blood pressure, weight management, and support for rural health services must now become national priorities.

In response, the team is developing a digital tool to support culturally safe care planning, helping GPs and patients set realistic, personalised health goals.

Read more here.

The team is developing a new digital tool to support culturally safe care planning and help GPs and patients work together on realistic, personalised health goals.

Food insecurity prompts store upgrade for remote community

Residents in the Northern Territory town of Alpurrurulam will see their local store receive an upgrade as part of the federal government’s food security upgrade policy.

The independently owned Warte Alparayetye Store will receive $915,000 in funding to expand its refrigeration facilities and dry and frozen food storage to help the community during the wet season.

The government previously announced a $9.6 million Store Efficiency and Resilience Package to give more than 15 remote stores funding.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Gunbalanya’s Adjumarllarl Store, 300 kilometres east of Darwin and 60 kilometres northeast of Jabiru, will receive over $341,000 for the purchase of a freezer and refrigeration units. They will also be able to upgrade their point of sale.

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said the package is “not just building resilience, it’s an investment in the health and wellbeing of First Nations people, and part of our broader commitment to Closing the Gap”.

Read the full article here.

Lingiari MP Marion Scrymgour (left) and Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy.

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 April 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.

Ngunnawal Country hosts independent Indigenous-led review of Closing the Gap

More than 150 people with experience of the Closing the Gap Agreement came together on Ngunnawal Country for a three-day face-to-face gathering this week.

The Assembly is part of a clause in the Closing the Gap agreement, which calls for an independent, Indigenous-led review every three years. The Assembly is seen as a key accountability mechanism to provide a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to directly influence change and policy reforms.

The Assembly brought together key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives from across the country to provide real-time feedback on where the Agreement is failing, working and where urgent improvements can be made.

Along with using the Assembly as an “important information gathering point,” there will be six site visits across the country, including the Kimberley, Tamworth, and Maningrida before they are required to report to the Joint Council in May.

All Mob are encouraged to get involved and make a submission on the Coalition of Peaks website before April 16. The survey will take about ten minutes and will allow everyone to speak about issues directly impacting them and their community.

The survey can be found online.

Read the full National Indigenous Times article here.

Pat Turner AM speaking. Image source: Coalition of Peaks.

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.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 10 April
Time: 12pm – 1:30pm (AEST) (90 mins)
Where: Online (we’ll send the link a week before)

Register now and be part of the yarn! Limited spots available!

Student Stories: Jessica Joy Cottom on building a brighter future

Jessica Joy Cottom isn’t just studying a Diploma of Counselling – she’s rewriting her story.

A strong and proud Wiradjuri woman, a ‘deadly big sister’ and a single mum, Jessica is proof that it’s never too late to create a new path for yourself.

‘I’ve always wanted to help people,’ she says. ‘Now I’m getting qualified to make it official.’

VACCHO spoke with Jessica about why her journey is about much more than earning a qualification – it’s about building a future for herself, her son and her Community.

Read her story here.

Image source: VACCHO

Aboriginal Kidney Care Together – Improving Outcomes Now (AKction)

The Aboriginal Kidney Care Together – Improving Outcomes Now (AKction) project by The University of Adelaide aims to conduct collaborative decolonising and participatory action research to improve kidney care in South Australia.

The project works with Aboriginal kidney patients and family members, health professionals, health services, academics and researchers.

Following on from AKction 1, and currently carrying out AKction 2, the project includes four overlapping sub-studies: Indigenous governance, kidney journey mapping, support for kidney patients, and cultural safety in kidney care.

Find out about the program here.

Image source: Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Crucial funding boost to transform Indigenous digital healthcare

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with chronic disease in rural areas will benefit from improved healthcare access thanks to a $500,000 grant.

Dr Bushra Nasir from The University of Queensland’s Rural Clinical School said a strategic framework will be developed to deliver a national Indigenous-led digital health service model, after being awarded a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant.

The delivery framework will be co-designed by UQ, Goondir Health Services (GHS, an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) and the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ).

Learn more here.

Image source: UQ News.

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.

Governance Workshops for ACCHOs

Register now for the NACCHO Governance Workshops 2025.

Sydney is up next on Tuesday 15 April and Wednesday 16 April. 

NACCHO’s Governance Workshops are designed for people working in member ACCHOs and run by legal and other experts in the field. 

The workshops cover: 

  • Principles of good governance.  
  • Managing conflicts of interest. 
  • Managing risk (e.g. contract execution, etc.). 
  • Delegation of powers. 
  • Finance for Boards. 
  • Structure and role of boards and sub-committees; and 
  • Governance documents. 

NACCHO Sector News: 27 March 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 groups cautiously optimistic about budget

Money for early childhood development, mental health and infrastructure have left Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak organisations with a feeling of ‘cautious optimism’ following the 2025 federal budget.

Much of the spending allocated in Tuesday night’s budget had been announced previously, including $50 million already earmarked to reduce the price of essential grocery items in remote communities.

Minister For Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said she was “very pleased” with this effort towards food security in remote communities, and efforts to tackle rheumatic heart disease, with $11.4 million in the budget to establish or upgrade 12 laundry facilities in remote communities.

To read the full article, go here.

Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy welcomed simple measures to improve lives. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)

Rolling wrap of health sector reaction to the Budget

Many health initiatives in the Federal Budget had already been announced, although no doubt additional items of interest will be uncovered by those reading the Budget papers closely.

Croakey Media links us to key documents, and also a rolling wrap of reaction.

​To read more, go here.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivering the 2025-2026 Federal Budget

Plant-based diet trial boosts health for people living with kidney disease

World first research trial shows simple dietary changes can improve gut health and reduce toxins

New research from the University of Wollongong (UOW) has found that a diet rich in diverse plant foods can significantly benefit people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

To read the media release, go here.

Associate Professor Kelly Lambert says a diet rich in diverse plant foods can significantly benefit people living with chronic kidney disease. Photo: Michael Gray

Needs-based funding is a must for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to access legal services

This powerful statement from Karly Warner, CEO of the Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT, comes in response to Victoria’s controversial youth bail laws. Warner and other legal and community leaders are warning that such policies disproportionately harm Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

To read more, go here.

Victoria’s bail laws are being challenged (Image: Dechlan Brennan)

Disaster Resilience, Risk Reduction Projects – CLOSES Wed 2.4.25 – National

Funding is available for projects that support disaster resilience and risk reduction, including those that:

  • increase the understanding of natural disaster impacts, build resilience to future disasters and/or reduce natural disaster risk
  • target one or more eligible natural hazard types
  • deliver enduring benefits for communities at risk of future eligible disasters
  • involve one or more eligible activity types in the built, social, natural and/or economic domains.

For further information, applicants should contact the Lead Agency in their jurisdiction.

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: 26 March 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.

Some good news for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health

The National Aboriginal Community-controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is pleased to hear of measures which should have a positive effect on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

The Chair of NACCHO, Donnella Mills, speaking in Melbourne this evening said, ‘We knew what was coming for our sector from the announcements related to the $842m package (over six years) that the Government negotiated with our colleagues at APONT in the Northern Territory. And we were also aware of some injections of funding in critical programs such as rheumatic heart disease (RHD). There is also funding for the Coalition of Peaks, which we are pleased to see. These are welcome announcements.’

In Canberra last night, Pat Turner, the CEO of NACCHO said, ‘The big thing for our sector in this Budget is the increased access to Medicare and the PBS. The $8.5b Medicare package will not only help our ACCHOs, but the better access to bulkbilling and medicines will directly benefit the half a million or so Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who access our 550 clinics. It was also pleasing to hear that the Coalition supports this critical announcement.’

Notwithstanding the measures in tonight’s Budget, more needs to be done if we are serious about closing the health gap. NACCHO has been working with the Department of Health for over seven years on a new funding model for the ACCHO sector. Currently, most of the funding is tied to historical decisions, which can no longer be justified. So, we are on the cusp of instituting a new and fairer model which represents the best chance we have had in a generation to deliver real reform.

Read the full media release here.

Nunkuwarrin Yunti’s new medical facility

The Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia (AHCSA) were proud to attend the official opening of Nunkuwarrin Yunti’s new medical facility.

Designed with multiple consulting rooms for GPs, nurses, counsellors, and other health practitioners, this space will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the community.

“We look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of Nunkuwarrin Yunti as they serve the health and wellbeing of the community,” AHCSA wrote on social media.

Image source: AHCSA.

‘Excited to serve the community’: new gym is a first of its kind for Orange

Based out of the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service, a new gym specifically aimed at the disabled community opened on Tuesday.

Some of the equipment on offer includes attachments which allow users to lift weights as well as a ceiling hoist and plinth to tackle balancing exercises to work core muscles.

The gym will be operated by Neuromoves – a specialised service from Spinal Cord Injuries Australia – and will be open to all members of the public, not just OAMS patients.

Read more here.

The new gym for Orange’s disabled community, located out of the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service. Picture by Carla Freedman

Good Medicine Better Health: Understanding and Managing Vaping

Vaping is on the rise, and understanding its risks is more important than ever. The latest Good Medicine Better Health module on Understanding and Managing Vaping is here to help.

Gain the knowledge and skills to support clients who vape and help prevent uptake in your community – plus, earn National Association of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health Workers CPD points along the way.

To complete the GMBH module, go here.

After support to quit vaping or smoking? Reach out to Quit on 13 78 48, or go here.

‘Inspiring’ basketball program keeps young people out of prison system

First Nations-led basketball program Hoops 4 Health gave peer mentor Aaron Hyde the boost he needed to chase his dreams while serving time in prison.

The recently paroled 28-year-old now runs workshops for young people and adults in the Alice Springs men’s prison and in communities to help them tackle trauma.

Founded in Darwin in 2001 by Warumungu and Nyikina man and former pro-baller Timmy Duggan, the basketball program was rolled out in the territory’s youth detention centres in 2016.

Mr Duggan said the initiative combined peer-led emotional regulation sessions, basketball and money skills.

“It’s a traumatic experience going to prison, and what a lot of our participants have faced might have been intergenerational trauma as well, so we’re using this model around healing-centred sport to address it,” he said.

Read the full article here.

Aaron Hyde (left) and Timmy Duggan run trauma-informed basketball workshops in communities and prisons. (ABC News: Michael Donelly)

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: 25 March 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.

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

The Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-Led Review is a national initiative that captures the perspectives and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people involved in the implementation of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap (National Agreement).

The Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led review occurs after each Productivity Commission Review and is an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to shape the future actions of the Priority Reforms in the National Agreement. This process is about understanding lived experiences, celebrating successes, and identifying where to build momentum in relation to the National Agreement.

There are many ways Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can contribute to the Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led review including:

  • A national online survey
  • A national submission process
  • Intensive forums in the six place-based partnerships (Clause 39) locations in the East Kimberley (WA), Maningrida (NT), Doomadgee (QLD), Tamworth (NSW), Gippsland (VIC), and the Western Suburbs of Adelaide (SA).
  • Stakeholder interviews
  • An in-person assembly of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives to be held on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country (Canberra) in April 2025

Learn more here.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks.

Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service mental health questionnaire

This questionnaire aims to gather insights on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention/ Intervention or after care experiences, including post suicide support within the ACT Region, including: Queanbeyan, and Yass. The questionnaire places a strong focus on accessibility, effectiveness, and cultural safety of services we need to access.

The information will help identify service gaps, improve support programs and design culturally safe community led initiatives.

All information is shared is kept confidential and contributes to building a program that is responsive to the local community needs.

To complete the survey, go here.

Image source: Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service

Introduction to Indigenous Psychology

Introduction to Indigenous Psychology is the first in a three-part video series, providing foundational learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural knowledges, and exploring contemporary global issues.

This series will encourage self-reflection on individual roles as a student, emerging psychologist or researcher, and how to be a better ally, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and social justice.

To watch the video, go here.

Connecting culture and care at Ipswich Hospital

Ty Cleary says his role supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients brings a strong sense of pride and connection to community. Mr Cleary is the Indigenous Liaison Service Coordinator at West Moreton Health in Ipswich, QLD. The Mununjali and Undambi man said his work focuses on ensuring cultural and spiritual needs were met within the hospital system.

“An important part of my work is ensuring the Indigenous Hospital Liaison Service meets the cultural and spiritual needs of the community,” he said.

“It’s also about supporting clinicians by educating them around culturally appropriate communication and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.”

Read more here.

Ty Cleary is leading efforts at West Moreton Health to improve culturally appropriate care for Indigenous patients. (Image: Supplied/West Moreton Health)

New Safe Aboriginal Youth program for Tamworth

Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation, Winanga-Li has been selected to roll out the Safe Aboriginal Youth (SAY) program to Tamworth as part of the NSW Government’s multi-agency plan to address youth crime and make communities safer.

SAY is a community-based service that provides supervised activities and safe transport for Aboriginal young people aged 12 to 18 years, helping them stay safe after dark.

It is designed to divert young people away from harmful activities and reduce the likelihood of criminal involvement, while also reducing the risk of them becoming victims of crime.

Read more here.

Image source: Winanga-Li

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: 24 March 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.

Strong Born in Seattle

Dr Robyn Williams and Dr Dorothy Badry took the Strong Born campaign to the international stage, presenting at the 9th International Research Conference on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, in Seattle.

The Strong Born Campaign has been highly successful, utilising a distinct approach to FASD awareness and prevention among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. Strong Born is connected to the National Information Campaign for pregnant and breastfeeding women and has developed downloadable resources for communities and health professionals.

Learn more here.

Dr Robyn Williams and Dr Dorothy Badry at the International Research Conference on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Indigenous groups ignored on government economic policies

A new report has revealed First Nations communities are not being properly consulted on government economic policies. The findings from the Coalition of Peaks – based on feedback from more than 200 organisations – were detailed in a new report Informing a Partnership on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Economic Development.

The COP report said the reluctance of governments to properly engage in genuine partnerships with Aboriginal organisations had continued to drive unemployment, disadvantage First Nations businesses, and leave young Indigenous people with no clear pathways to economic security.

The findings highlighted significant shortcomings in current government engagement, and a need for a new plan centred on solutions led by Aboriginal community-controlled organisations (ACCOs).

Read the full report here.

Read the National Indigenous Times article here.

Image source: Coalition of Peaks

2025 WA Rural Health Excellence Awards

Congratulations to the finalists and winners of the 2025 WA Rural Health Excellence Awards. Recipients from the ACCHO sector include:

  • Soleil White, Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service: Aboriginal Health Professional of the Year
  • Susannah Warwick, Derby Aboriginal Health Service: GP of the Year
  • Nicholas Corsair, Kimberley Renal Services: Nurse or Midwife of the Year
  • Tylah Bedford, Yura Yungi Medical Service: Young Professional of the Year

Read more here.

Image source: Rural Health West

Screen with your sistas

These health promotion resources have been developed by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, as part of its Screen With Your Sistas campaign. The campaign aims to increase breast screening participation among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. Resources include brochures, a fact sheet, a flipbook, posters, illustrated videos and social media tiles.

The campaign website includes information on:

  • understanding breast screening
  • getting ready for an appointment
  • guidance for health professionals
  • links to program resources.

Learn more here.

Image source: Screen with your sistas

Bicycle revolution underway on Torres Strait’s Thursday Island

On the face of it, bicycles should be a great way to get around on Thursday Island, or “TI”, in the Torres Strait. The 3.5-square-kilometre tropical island has a designated cycleway and most things are a five to 10-minute ride away. But after moving her young family to TI from New South Wales in 2023, Sarah Tedder was struck by the lack of people pedalling around.

After surveying community members nearly a year ago, Ms Tedder found while some kids had a bike, it was a different story for adults, with many relying on taxis to get their children to school or run errands. Along with a group of locals and the mayor, she has since led a bicycle revolution — Mobilise TI — to improve access to bikes for the island’s nearly 3,000 residents.

“It’s so good being on the bike. It’s reliable, it’s there just ready for us to go, you’ve always got a breeze, keeps us healthy too,” says Joy Robin, local mum.

Read more here.

Thursday Island mum Joy Robin and daughter Linze with their bikes. (Supplied: Sarah Tedder)

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: 21 March 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 NACCHO Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship applications closing soon!

Applications for the 2025 NACCHO Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship are closing soon, Monday 24 March. To apply, go here.

The scholarship program aims to build the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacist workforce and to raise the profile of the beneficial role that pharmacy and pharmacists can play in supporting appropriate and culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Each recipient will receive up to $10,000 per annum to contribute to university expenses. The scholarship also includes support and mentorship from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals and organisations to ensure ongoing integration and connection with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled health sector.

For questions or further information, please contact Harrison Milne on 0481257904 or harrison.milne@naccho.org.au.

*Proudly supported by a grant from Sanofi

Webinar: Launch of the Australian Clinical Guidelines on HTLV-1 for Aboriginal Primary Health Care Settings

This webinar will launch the Australian Clinical Guidelines on HTLV-1 for Aboriginal Primary Health Care Settings. These guidelines are a comprehensive, culturally safe and evidence-based guide to the prevention, testing, diagnosis, management and care of Human T-lymphotropic virus subtype 1 (HTLV-1).

Date, Time & Venue

  • Monday, 24 March 2025 | 12:00pm – 1:00pm (AEDT)
  • Online via Teams

Target Audience

  • All healthcare workers, particularly those working in the Northern Territory, APY Lands and NG lands.

Register here.

Webinar: Launch of the Australian Clinical Guidelines on HTLV-1 for Aboriginal Primary Health Care Settings

Funding to help Indigenous women and children in the NT leave abusive relationships

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children living in Darwin will be given support to leave violent intimate partner relationships through funding for an Indigenous legal organisation by the federal government.

On Friday, the Labor government announced the North Australian Aboriginal Family Legal Service (NAAFLS) had received $9 million in funding to work in partnership with Danila Dilba Health Services, the Darwin Aboriginal and Islander Women’s Shelter, and Yilli Rreung Housing to help support survivors.

NAAFLS will provide survivors with an option to access the Leaving Violence Program through their service as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Organisation.

Read more here.

Women pictured in Alice Springs in July. (Image: Jesse Tyssen)

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.

VACCHO’s Community Question Time sparks fervent discussions ahead of the Federal Election

The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) hosted their third Community Question Time at the Aborigines Advancement League on Tuesday 18 March.

The insightful evening provided a great platform for conversations that were powerful, raw and at times, emotionally charged. The all-Indigenous panel included Greens Senator Dorinda Cox, Labor Senator Jana Stewart, Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe and VACCHO CEO Dr. Jill Gallagher AO.

The panellists delved into 90 minutes of thought-provoking conversations that covered a broad range of topics such as advocating for better social care systems, changing the date of Australia Day and other matters impacting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Read more here.


Image source: VACCHO

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and babies

RACGP Rural spoke to Dr Natasha Pavlin from Wurli-Wurlinjang Health Service (Wurli) about the Australian Family Partnership Program (AFPP), a culturally grounded initiative supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and babies. The dedication of Natasha and her team ensures that this evidence-based program delivers meaningful, long-lasting health outcomes.

At Wurli, Natasha and her team have tailored it to the needs of the Katherine community. The program pairs trained nurses with Aboriginal family partnership workers who offer culturally informed guidance, ensuring holistic support for families throughout pregnancy, birth and the first two years of a child’s life.

Read more here.

Rana Rankin RN Nurse Home Visitor and Maxine Coombe Family Partnership Worker.

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.

Governance Workshops for ACCHOs: Melbourne, VIC

ACCHOs…Free Governance Workshops are coming your way in 2025! Melbourne you’re up first: Wednesday 26 March & Thursday 27 March.

To register, go here.

NACCHO’s Governance Workshops are designed for people working in member ACCHOs and run by legal and other experts in the field.

The workshops cover:

  • Principles of good governance.
  • Managing conflicts of interest.
  • Managing risk (e.g. contract execution, etc.).
  • Delegation of powers.
  • Finance for Boards.
  • Structure and role of boards and sub-committees; and
  • Governance documents.