NACCHO Sector News: 3 November 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

PITCH First Nations: Using yarns to adapt dementia training for home care workers

First Nations Australians have around 3 times the prevalence of dementia of other Australians and face distinct aged care needs that are not well accommodated by mainstream services.

Dementia Training Australia (DTA) has commissioned National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) to produce PITCH First Nations, an evidence-based training package for home care workers who work with First Nations Elders and older people living with dementia. The project draws on the Promoting Independence Through quality Care at Home (PITCH) training previously developed at NARI.

PITCH First Nations will redevelop the original PITCH training to be culturally relevant, safe, appropriate and tailored to the needs of First Nations people. The training is being redeveloped via a collaborative process with First Nations communities and co-researchers embedded in Aboriginal Community Controlled (ACCO) aged care services, through Yarning Circles with First Nations Elders and older people.

Read the full article

Applications open for 2026 AMA Indigenous Medical Scholarship

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical students are invited to apply now for the Australian Medical Association’s 2026 Indigenous Medical Scholarship.
Since 1994, the scholarship has helped grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce by supporting First Nations peoples who are enrolled in a medical degree in Australia.

The AMA hopes to build on the increasing success of the scholarship program, with 2025 marking the first time in the scheme’s history that three individual scholarships were awarded in a single year off the back of support from generous donors.

Applications for the 2026 scholarship opened on Saturday and will close on 31 January 2026.

AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said the scholarship was a crucial part of the AMA’s long-running efforts to grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce in the pursuit of improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Read the full article

2026 AMA Indigenous Medical Scholarship - Apply Now.

2026 AMA Indigenous Medical Scholarship – Apply Now.

Kimberley Youth Night Space Success: Still Awaiting Department Funding

While Kununurra youth crime is in the spotlight, in Fitzroy Crossing – another town in WA’s Kimberley region – children’s laughter drifts through the Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation’s Night Space – a youth hub that MWWAC director Patrick Green calls a “home for the town’s kids”.

The smell of home-cooked food lingers as Elders swap stories around long tables, a gathering that feels more like a family barbecue than a celebration marking one year of the Night Space. In its first year, the Night Space has offered Fitzroy Crossing’s children warm meals, showers, mentoring and help reconnecting with school and services, with its impact rippling far beyond its walls.

The kitchen has served more than 25,000 meals and engaged nearly 700 young people.

Fitzroy Crossing Senior Sergeant Mark Howes said youth crime has declined significantly since the Night Space began operating 12 months ago.

Read the full article.

Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation night space one year anniversary.

Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation night space one year anniversary. Image: Natasha Clark.

We Breathe – Tackling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Smoking

Deciding to quit smoking or vaping is a huge step, and it’s completely normal to feel like there’s a long journey ahead. But you don’t have to go it alone. We’re here to help, and we understand that finding the right support and tools can make all the difference.

That’s why we’ve put together a guide called “5 Hacks to Help Quit Smoking and Vaping.” It’s packed with simple, practical tips designed to help you get started and stay on track.

Ready to take the pledge for a healthier, smoke-free future? Just enter your details into the forms below to receive your free copy of “5 Hacks to Help Quit Smoking and Vaping,” and let’s start this journey together.

Read the full article.

Decorative image

Terminology update for MBS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner Services

  • From 1 November 2025, the terminology used for MBS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker and practitioner services will be updated to reflect the primary health care services the professions provide.
  •  This update will affect a name change to the Health Insurance (Section 3C General
    Medical Services – Allied Health Services) Determination 2024.
  • This change will not affect how the MBS items for these services are used

Access all the information.

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 31 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Victoria makes history with passage of Australia’s first Treaty bill

Victoria’s historic Treaty bill has passed the state’s upper house, paving the way for it to be formally signed before the end of the year and marking the first such agreement to be signed in Australia’s history.

The Statewide Treaty Bill passed the Legislative Council on Thursday night with support from the Greens and the crossbench. The Opposition voted against it, having withdrawn support for the previously bipartisan process last year.

The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria – which negotiated the Treaty on behalf of First Nations Victorians – welcomed the milestone with Co-Chair Ngarra Murray calling it a “historic moment for our people”.

“We will tell our children about today, and they will tell their children, passing down to future generations the story of how decades of Aboriginal resilience and activism led to Australia’s first Treaty,” the Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Dhudhuroa woman said.

“Treaty marks the beginning of a new era, one where First Peoples’ 60,000 years of knowledge and culture is respected and celebrated. It’s an opportunity for all Victorians to acknowledge our shared history, heal and move forward together.”

Read the full article.

Celebrations inside Parliament as the Treaty Bill is passed. Image: Justin McManus (The Age).

Celebrations inside Parliament as the Treaty Bill is passed. Image: Justin McManus (The Age).

Review Confirms SNAICC Early Years Success for First Nations Children

An independent evaluation by Deloitte has confirmed that SNAICC’s Early Years Support (EYS) program is a highly effective and trusted model that is strengthening the Aboriginal community controlled (ACCO) early education and care (ECEC) sector. 

The report found the EYS program is “a highly valued and effective initiative” that improves  service quality, reduces administrative burden on community leaders, and builds strong, culturally  safe relationships across the services involved.

Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, National Voice for our Children said the Deloitte findings confirm what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have always known, when Aboriginal organisations lead the way in early childhood education, our children thrive.

“The evidence is clear, this model works and it’s changing lives,” Ms Liddle said.

“These are the services that are best places and are proven to get the best outcomes for our  children and families.

Read the full article.

Decorative image

Remote NT communities are being left behind due to ‘unacceptable’ healthcare

First Nations people continue to die younger and live with poorer health than other Australians. Addressing this disparity requires urgent attention from all governments. By DR John Paterson

After more than 40 years working alongside Aboriginal communities and advocating for better health outcomes, I am retiring as CEO of AMSANT and convener of the Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory. It has been my life’s work to fight for the health and wellbeing of our people and to create lasting, systemic change for future generations.

Progress on Closing the Gap health targets has been concerningly slow. While life expectancy has improved for Aboriginal people – driven largely by stronger investment in First Nations-led service delivery – the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous mortality remains unacceptably high.

In the Northern Territory, where disadvantage is greatest, many health outcomes are not only off track but going backwards. Chronic diseases such as rheumatic heart disease and diabetes remain common, children in remote areas still suffer from preventable illnesses such as scabies and anaemia, driven by overcrowded housing and the high cost of food, and mental health challenges weigh heavily on our communities.

The reality is this: First Nations people continue to die younger and live with poorer health than other Australians. Addressing this disparity requires urgent attention from all governments. Closing the health gap means backing Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to do the work they know best – and ensuring they have the facilities, workforce and resources to meet growing demand.

Read the full article.

Health leaders in remote parts of the NT want a long-term strategy to improve health care delivery, services, and infrastructure. Picture shows inside the Yirrkala health clinic.

Health leaders in remote parts of the NT want a long-term strategy to improve health care delivery, services, and infrastructure. Picture shows inside the Yirrkala health clinic.

Justice Health NSW establishes new partnership to support Aboriginal patients in state’s Central West

Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network (Justice Health NSW) will partner with Wellington Aboriginal Corporation Health Service (WACHS) to deliver trauma-informed, culturally safe healthcare to Aboriginal patients in custody in the state’s Central West. 

The in-reach model, based on the Justice Our Way program, involves local Aboriginal community-based health services delivering support to Aboriginal patients in custody and transitioning to community.

The expansion of the program is funded under the Domestic Family Sexual Violence National Partnership Agreement, and will see place-based throughcare, designed by WACHS, delivered at Wellington Correctional Centre to Aboriginal women on remand and in custody, and for the first time also piloted for Aboriginal men in custody.

First implemented in 2014 by the South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation (Waminda), The Justice Our Way program addresses a critical gap in support for Aboriginal people transitioning out of the justice system.

For the past 10 years, the Justice Our Way program has been successfully delivered to women in Dillwynia and Silverwater Correctional Centres.

Read the full article.

 

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 30 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

PITCH First Nations: Using yarns to adapt dementia training for home care workers

First Nations Australians have around 3 times the prevalence of dementia of other Australians and face distinct aged care needs that are not well accommodated by mainstream services.

Dementia Training Australia (DTA) has commissioned National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) to produce PITCH First Nations, an evidence-based training package for home care workers who work with First Nations Elders and older people living with dementia. The project draws on the Promoting Independence Through quality Care at Home (PITCH) training previously developed at NARI.

PITCH First Nations will redevelop the original PITCH training to be culturally relevant, safe, appropriate and tailored to the needs of First Nations people. The training is being redeveloped via a collaborative process with First Nations communities and co-researchers embedded in Aboriginal Community Controlled (ACCO) aged care services, through Yarning Circles with First Nations Elders and older people.

Read the full article.

Over $9 million for health and medical research partnerships

The Australian Government is strengthening research partnerships that will deliver better care for Aboriginal communities across Australia, with more than $9 million invested in new health and medical research projects.

Through the National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) Partnership Project scheme, the government is contributing $4 million, with an additional $5 million committed by funding partners.

Three chief investigators and their teams will lead projects, working hand in hand with partners to turn evidence into practical improvements in Aboriginal health services and outcomes.

Professor Asha Bowen from the University of Western Australia will work closely with Aboriginal Elders and community members to develop an Aboriginal health practitioner-led skin health assessment and research evaluation initiative.

Skin conditions that can lead to bacterial infections are common among Aboriginal children and can reduce their quality of life and lead to serious illness. There is an urgent need for better skin health services for Aboriginal children.

In partnership with the Child and Adolescent Health and South Metropolitan Health Services, this project will identify and treat harmful skin conditions in Aboriginal children leading to better outcomes.

Read the full media release.

Exclusive: Noongar medical student Shakayla Walley-Wihongi and team pioneers a new pathway to treat syphilis

23-year-old soon-to-be doctor Shakayla Walley-Wihongi, with a team of scientific powerhouses, has blazed a trail in the treatment of syphilis.

In its most dangerous form of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), the illness claims the lives of 40 per cent of babies born with congenital syphilis. However, perinatal death is 100 per cent preventable.

Syphilis remains at an all-time high with a 251 per cent increase in Australia in the last decade, according to the University of New South Wales’ annual surveillance report released in 2023.Ms Walley-Wihongi graduated with her Honours in Biomedical Science at the University of Notre Dame with the penicillin team at The Kids Research Institute Australia, a research facility that focuses on improving the lives of children who require medical support.

The Australian syphilis epidemic disproportionately impacts two distinct populations: heterosexual Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mob whose residences are dispersed across rural and remote communities, and urban living men who have sex with men.

Ms Walley-Wihongi’s primary supervisor, Associate Professor Laurens Manning of the University of Western Australia’s Medical School, conceptualised the subcutaneous infusion of benzathine penicillin G (SCIP) with the wider Penicillin team, before Shakayla’s academic journey.

Read the full article.

Shakayla Walley-Wihongi at Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases Annual Scientific Meeting in Canberra in April.

Shakayla Walley-Wihongi at Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases Annual Scientific Meeting in Canberra in April. Image: supplied.

Study shows world-first Australian preterm birth prevention program is working

New data has shown that a world-first initiative to reduce preterm births in Australia has led to a significant decrease in rates of potentially harmful early birth and improved pregnancy outcomes for women across the country.

Published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health, the study presents detailed outcomes from a six-year preterm birth prevention program first introduced in mid-2018.

Preterm birth – defined as birth before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy – remains a leading cause of death and long-term disability in children worldwide.

In response to rising rates of potentially harmful early birth across the country, the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance launched a comprehensive preterm birth prevention program in 2018.

Professor of Obstetrics at The University of Western Australia, and Chair and Founder of the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance, Professor John Newnham said the ‘proof of concept’ phase for the program had been modelled on a pioneering initiative delivered in Western Australia.

“From 2018-2021, broad implementation of preterm birth prevention strategies across the country through the Alliance were found to have lowered the rate of preterm birth by 10 per cent,” Professor Newnham said.

Read the full article.

It’s good to know: Lung cancer screening is free and could save your life!

We are launching a new campaign, supported by the Australian Government, to raise awareness of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program. 

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Australia, but with lung screening we can change this. If found early, over 65% of lung cancers can be successfully treated.  

If you’re aged 50 to 70 and have a history of smoking, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about lung screening. 

Find out more: www.lungcancerscreen.org.au   

There's a new lung cancer screening program

There’s a new lung cancer screening program. Visit lungcancerscreen.org.au

 

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 29 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Now you can improve patient care with lifelong CTG PBS registration

The CTG PBS Co-payment Program improves access to all PBS-listed medicines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. All doctors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners, and their authorised delegates can register patients in HPOS, a one-time, lifelong registration that follows patients across care settings. Noting assessment must occur by a PBS prescriber or an Aboriginal Health Practitioner.

Go here to learn practical steps and tips to embed CTG PBS into everyday practice, including primary care, community pharmacy, hospitals, and remote services.

Upcoming Changes to Bulk Billing Incentives in General Practice webinar recording now on NACCHO Online Learning!

Upcoming Changes to Bulk Billing Incentives in General Practice webinar recording along with FAQs and relevant resources, is now on NACCHO Online Learning.

How to watch:

From 1 November 2025, the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) will provide an additional 12.5% incentive payment on Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) benefits for BBPIP-eligible services.

This webinar recording by NACCHO and Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing covers what these changes mean for ACCHOs, eligibility, and how they can benefit your practice and patients.

2025 NT PHN Health Professional of the Year Awards

Red Lily Health is incredibly proud to share that Nathaniel Paterson has been awarded Primary Care Support Person of the Year at the 2025 NT PHN Health Professional of the Year Awards.

Since joining Red Lily Health Service in 2020, Nathaniel has played a vital role in strengthening trust between community and health services in Jabiru. His consistent care, cultural understanding, and dedication to improving health outcomes have made a lasting impact on clients and colleagues alike.

Congratulations Nathaniel!

Image source: Red Lily Health

Moorditj Minds: Social and Emotional Wellbeing with Professor Pat Dudgeon

Moorditj minds is a podcast series from Consumers of Mental Health Western Australia which aims to explore Aboriginal mental health services in WA. The podcast works to raise awareness, promote understanding and provide valuable resources to support mental wellbeing within the Aboriginal community.

Episodes will include:

  • important topics
  • insightful discussions
  • personal stories
  • interviews with experts and community leaders.

Tune in to the conversation between Professor Pat Dudgeon AM and Phill Moncrieff as they discuss all things CBPATSISP and research.

Learn more 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.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 28 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 NACCHO Members’ Conference are still available!

Becoming a conference sponsor will expose your business to up to 1,000 individuals + 250 organisations that are focused on delivering positive health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

  • Contribute to the critical work of closing the health gap
  • Gain visibility and recognition
  • Amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
  • Foster essential partnerships that lead to improved health outcomes across the nation

Learn more here.

World Immunisation Day ACCHO Video Competition

World Immunisation Day’s coming up and that means… ACCHOs, it’s your time to shine! We want to see your most creative, cheeky, and clever ideas to get community rolling up their sleeves.

Create a fun, 90-second video that shows how we can Fab Jab & Roll Up, Show Up, Power Up for a stronger, healthier mob. Sing it, rap it, dance it, yarn it, act it, whatever gets the message out and makes people smile.

We will select a winning ACCHO from each category:

  • Best Community Voice
  • Best Storytelling/Narrative
  • Best Original Song/Performance
  • Best Humour/Comedy
  • Best Youth-Led Video
  • Most Innovative Approach

Winners will receive tickets, flights and accommodation to the 2025 NACCHO Members’ Conference.

Submissions close THIS WEEK, 1 November!

Submit your entry via: immunisations@naccho.org.au

Congratulations Danila Dilba Health Service Midwives and deadly Kamika!

Danila Dilba Health Service is proud to announce that, on Saturday night, deadly Danila Dilba Midwives and AHP Trainee, Kamika Pollard, took out their categories at the Northern Territory Primary Health Network (NT PHN) Health Professional of the Year Awards.

The midwives were awarded the title of Fox Education & Consultancy – RTO 40674’s Primary Healthcare Team of the Year, and Kamika took home the Charles Darwin University Rising Star of the Year Award.

See more here.

Image source: Danila Dilba Health Service

Independent review finds SNAICC’s early years program transforms outcomes for Aboriginal children

The national peak body for Indigenous children and families says an independent review has confirmed a self-determined and culturally safe learning model is a “highly valued and effective initiative”.

An independent Deloitte evaluation of the Early Years Support (EYS) program, run by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, found the community-controlled intermediary model plays a “critical role in delivering direct, responsive support to services,” which has “contributed to improved service quality, reduced barriers to effective delivery, and alleviated administrative burden”.

This comes despite Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) continuing to face “significant operational and systemic challenges”.

“The strong relationships built by SNAICC Early Years Support have opened the doors for effective policy influence and development – fostered by a more connected ACCO sector,” the report said.

“This has created critical opportunities to work collectively with governments to lift child, family and community outcomes – in an increasingly co-ordinated, cohesive, and culturally strong ACCO service system.”

Read more here.

SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle says the programs are proven to get the best outcomes for Indigenous children and families (Image: Ian Redfearn/ABC 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.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 27 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Return to traditional birthing practices brings joy to Bundjalung mothers, elders

In short:

An Aboriginal Health Service in northern New South Wales has held its first smoking ceremony for babies and toddlers.

It is part of a federally funded birthing-on-country program designed to redress inequities and maternal and child health outcomes.

What’s next?

The Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service hopes to establish its own culturally safe birthing centre.

The guests of honour at a smoking ceremony on Bundjalung country in northern New South Wales may not have understood the significance of the event, but it was not lost on their parents and grandparents.

The event was a first for the Ballina-based Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service, and part of its birthing-on-country Sistabirth initiative.

Mother-of-four Relicca Kelly brought along her youngest child, Yarambati. “It’s really nice … we can get a bit of our culture back,” she said.

“People are raising their voice now just to show that our culture is still there, even though the majority of it got taken away. “It’s good to have these events just to feel connected.”

Read the full article.

Baby Yarambati Kelly-Pati is welcomed to country by elder Mildred Cameron. (ABC North Coast: Hannah Ross)

Baby Yarambati Kelly-Pati is welcomed to country by elder Mildred Cameron. (ABC North Coast: Hannah Ross)

Meet the Yolngu woman working to feed her remote island community

41-year-old Vanessa Maymuru is part of a mentor program that provides employment and training opportunities to women in northeast Arnhem Land.

Among the renowned rich red dirt of the Northern Territory’s Arnhem Land region, a demountable building sits among the stringybark forest on the outskirts of Galiwin’ku’s only town. The remote island community is home to around 2000 people, and is one of the most remote regions of Australia’s north, around 550 kilometers northeast of Darwin.

Vanessa Maymuru makes her way inside to the break room, the first to arrive from her cohort, quietly brewing herself a coffee before her shift starts.
“We just put our name and the time and start doing work,” the Yolngu woman told NITV.

After three years of working at Miyalk Kitchen, it’s a familiar routine. The kitchen provides meals to local contractors, catering, and NDIS home delivery. Vanessa is in charge of packing and delivering the food to community members participating in the NDIS food delivery program.

“It’s good, I’m helping Yolngu people,” Vanessa said.

Read the full article.

Yolngu woman Vanessa Maymuru sets off for her daily NDIS food delivery in the remote island community of Galiwin’ku. Source: Emma Kellaway

Children’s Day celebrated with Yawuru culture, song and community spirit in Broome

Families and educators came together at Guwarri in Broome to celebrate this year’s National Children’s Day on Thursday, recognising this year’s theme – Everyone Should Know About Children’s Rights.

The event focused on every child’s right to feel safe, loved and respected, to learn, play, and grow strong in their culture and identity.

Mabu Yawuru Ngan-ga, the Yawuru language centre, led the celebration with help from local schools and early childhood groups.
The crowd was delighted by a visit from the centre’s Brahminy kite mascot, Jir, who joined the children in singing and dancing to Yawuru songs before flying back toward the mangroves.

The Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (BRAMS) Kids Club team handed out gifts to every child, while community partners, including St Mary’s College Broome, the Broome Youth and Families Hub, and Broome Primary School’s KindiLink helped make the day a success.

Read the full article.

All Australians are welcome here’: Forty years on, PM hails Uluru handback to traditional owners

Anthony Albanese has praised the generosity of the traditional owners of Uluru during the Indigenous Voice to Parliament campaign as something that “stays in my heart as much as this rock is the heart of this continent”.

In the shadow of the iconic Northern Territory landmark, the prime minister reflected on the failed referendum vote on Saturday while commemorating the 40-year anniversary of the return of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to its traditional owners.
Albanese said that he accepted the outcome of the October 2023 referendum – in which a majority voted against the proposal for constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – even though it was not what he wanted or voted for. But he said he still treasured his memories from his time in the red centre during the campaign for a Yes vote.

“I will be forever grateful for the generosity of the traditional owners, in particular the leaders, the women who did a dance and song to show respect to the prime minister of Australia,” he told reporters at Uluru on Saturday. “It’s something I’ll never forget that stays in my heart as much as this rock is the heart of this continent.

Read the full article.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks to media during the ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of the handback of Uluru.Credit:AAP

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks to media during the ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of the handback of Uluru. Credit: AAP

New funding to improve cardiovascular health of First Nations people

A project that aims to close the data gaps in cardiovascular health among First Nations people is among 67 projects Australia-wide to receive funding from the Heart Foundation to drive discoveries in prevention of heart disease, and in the treatment and care of people living with it.

Dr Ingrid Stacey, a research fellow in the Cardiovascular Epidemiology Research Centre at The University of Western Australia’s School of Population and Global Health and research affiliate with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, has been awarded $151,000, which will be matched by UWA, to undertake two years postdoctoral research.

Cardiovascular disease is the largest contributor to the life expectancy gap experienced by First Nations people, with the onset of disease often occurring decades earlier than for the non-Indigenous Australian population.

Read the full article.

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 24 October 2015

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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 for the QAIHC Members’ Conference 2025!

Day 2 of the QAIHC Members’ Conference 2025 brought practical insights on engagement, workforce development, and the bright future of Queensland’s ACCHO sector, alongside fearless discussions about the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead.

QAIHC wrote on socials:

Our heartfelt thanks to:

  • Dr Dawn Casey, Deputy CEO of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO Aboriginal Health Australia), for sharing your wisdom and tackling tough questions with honesty and grace.
  • Natalie Wilde, Director-General of the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism (DWATSIPM), for your practical advice on engaging with government and navigating tender processes.
  • Dr Kathy Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the Townsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health Services (TAIHS), and Adam Stephen, Workforce Development Jurisdiction Manager at QAIHC, for demonstrating the value of training and workforce development to strengthen ACCHOs and communities, and for sharing data insights that light the path forward.
  • Our deadly young leaders: Daniel Rosendale (Wuchopperen Health Service Ltd), Shirley Curley (Palm Island Community Company), Fallon Grainer (Mulungu Health Service) and Daniel Knapp (TAIHS), for your courage, clarity and commitment to growing the next generation of ACCHO leaders.
  • Dion Devow, for being an outstanding MC who guided us through the conference with humour, heart and connection; bringing energy and warmth to every moment.

A huge thank you to every panellist, facilitator and speaker who lent their voice to these two inspiring days.

And finally, to our Members. Thank you for making the journey to Gimuy/Cairns to share your stories and strengthen our movement.

We may not always see eye to eye or have the same needs, but our love for community and commitment to better health for our peoples unites us all.

See more photos here.

Dr Dawn Casey, NACCHO Deputy CEO presenting at the QAIHC Members’ Conference 2025. Image source: QAIHC

2025 AAPMAANZ: ACCHO model of care

Dr Jason Agostino, NACCHO Senior Medical Advisor presented at the 2025 AAPMAANZ Conference with South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation’s Tashia Hanuki and Kalinda Wills. The group discussed the Aboriginal Communtiy Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) model of care.  

For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, health is deeply connected to land, sea, language, culture, and community relationships. These connections manifest differently from one individual or community to another. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled comprehensive primary healthcare model seeks to translate these unique and intrinsic values into a framework for delivering health services.

The model is built around four core domains that ensure healthcare services are locally defined and culturally responsive. These include governance, clinical services, policy direction and partnership, and community health promotion and empowerment.

Learn more here.

Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services promote cervical screening

The Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services team is repping the NACCHO Cervical Cancer Screening shirts for Cervical Cancer Awareness Week.

Doing their bit to help promote the “Let’s Own It!” campaign, which encourages participation in the national cervical screening program by highlighting the option for self-collection and reminding individuals about the importance of screening every five years to prevent cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer is preventable. Through cervical screening every 5 years, rates of cervical cancer can be reduced and lives saved.

Learn more here.

Image source: Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services

Deadly Doctors Forum

The AH&MRC, in partnership with the NSW Rural Doctors Network, held the Deadly Doctors Forum 2025 over two days on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 October at Little Bay. The event brought together doctors working in NSW ACCHOs.

AH&MRC shared on socials:

Thank you to everyone who made the Deadly Doctors Forum a success!

It was incredible to connect with so many passionate professionals, all working to support our communities and deliver the highest standard of care.

A special shoutout to our deadly speakers and delegates—your expertise and insights sparked some truly inspiring discussions. We hope you’re walking away with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and takeaways to strengthen your practice and continue supporting our communities.

We can’t wait to do it all again next year!

Image source: AH&MRC

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.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 23 October 2015

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

More funding to steer Northern Territory boys away from violence

The Albanese Labor Government is investing almost $2 million in a targeted prevention program for 12 to18-year-old boys in the Northern Territory.

The Turtle Back – Learning and Leadership Centre will be delivered in Palmerston, working with young boys who have been exposed to family violence when growing up, aiming to give them the tools they need to break the cycle, manage emotions in a healthy way and to see a more hopeful future.

The Turtle Back program will be delivered by Grassroots Action Palmerston Aboriginal Corporation (GAP), an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation. They will work with boys from all backgrounds, and ensure connection with culture is front and centre to support First Nations boys.

This program is one of 14 that are funded under the $27 million Supporting Adolescent Boys Trial, with programs now being delivered across all states and territories.

Read the full Media Release.

‘Mob want to see mob’: First Nations clinics a priority for many young Indigenous Australians

Key points

  • A UQ-led study has found cultural connection are of high importance to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders when choosing to access healthcare.
  • The study of 35 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 15–24 in urban southeast Queensland, focuses on barriers and supports to primary healthcare.
  • Researchers say many studies have focused on young people in rural and remote areas, and this is one of the first to survey young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in an urban setting.

Cultural connection and positive healthcare experiences are of high value to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians when deciding to access healthcare.

A UQ-led study examined factors supporting or hindering young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from accessing primary healthcare services, finding many participants preferred Aboriginal providers where they can ‘be themselves.’

Senior research fellow Stephen Harfield, from UQ’s Poche Centre for Indigenous Health and a Narungga and Ngarrindjeri man from South Australia, said a cultural connection is important.

“This is especially the case during adolescence and early adulthood when there is significant physical, emotional and social development,’’ Mr Harfield said.

Read the full article.

Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have shared their experiences with primary healthcare services in a new UQ-led study.

Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have shared their experiences with primary healthcare services in a new UQ-led study. (Photo credit: Louise Beaumont/Getty Images. )

Help shape the next First Nations Health Research Fund grant opportunity

The Indigenous Health Research Fund is investing $160 million in First Nations-led research to tackle health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The 2026 grant opportunity will award $28.5 million through an open competitive process to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled program for health research projects.

A Working Group of the NHMRC-MRFF Indigenous Advisory Group, led by Professor Yvette Roe, has provided us with advice on the:

  • design of the 2026 grant opportunity
  • assessment scoring matrix.

Learn more and register to the webinar.

Decorative image

New campaign responds to rising syphilis cases in Western Australia

The Department of Health has launched a campaign to raise awareness of preventable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis. The campaign urges the community to take steps to protect their sexual health, following a sharp rise in the number of syphilis cases reported across the State.

Syphilis notifications have risen dramatically over the past two decades, increasing 32-fold, from 26 cases in 2004–05 to a peak of 823 cases in 2021–22. While numbers decreased to 653 in 2023-24, they rose again to 680 in 2024-25. In 2025 syphilis caused two stillbirths and one baby to be born with syphilis infection.

WA’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Andrew Robertson said syphilis is a serious infection that can cause long-term health impacts if left untreated. “It is often asymptomatic, which means many people may be unaware they are infected and can unknowingly pass it on,” he said.

Read the full article.

 

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 22 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Now you can get medicines for less or free through the Closing the Gap PBS Program

The Closing the Gap (CTG) PBS Program helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and families access the medicines they need, wherever they live in Australia.

Once you’re registered, the price of most PBS medicines is reduced, and in some cases, they are even free. Registration is a one-time, for-life process. Yarn with your clinic, pharmacist or Aboriginal Health Practitioner to check your status and get registered.

Learn more here.

QAIHC Members’ Conference 2025

QAIHC Members’ Conference 2025 has officially begun, and Day 1 was filled with culture, connection, and deep conversations.

From data sovereignty and workforce planning to funding reform and policy influence; every discussion centred on helping our communities live long, happy, healthy lives.

  • Explored the vital role of data in telling our stories, identifying service gaps, and guiding investment where it matters most.
  • Heard from our NT colleagues about the Northern Territory Forum model and how Queensland’s ACCHO sector can coordinate efforts across regions.
  • Had an engaging session with Melinda Turner, First Assistant Secretary, First Nations Health Division, Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, on how our sector can influence national programs and priorities.

For more information, go here.

Image source: QAIHC

The Beautiful Shawl Project: Empowering breast screening

The Beautiful Shawl Project is a collaborative, Community-led initiative providing safe and empowering breast screening for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in Victoria.

In 2023, The Beautiful Shawl Project was spotlighted in a short film, capturing the stories of the staunch Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who brought it to life.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, VACCHO celebrates the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and other Aboriginal-led services working tirelessly to ensure that Community has access to culturally safe screening.

Learn more here.

Image source: VACCHO

Kambu Health Social Health Team take home 2025 Queensland Mental Health Award

The Kambu Health Social Health Team have won the 2025 Queensland Mental Health Award, Workplace Award – Community Wellbeing.

Kambu Health wrote on socials:

“This incredible achievement recognises the hard work and dedication of our team in uplifting and empowering our people, and in fostering resilience and strength across our community.

Our holistic approach to wellbeing is made possible through the collaboration of all Kambu Health teams — including our clinical health team, allied health professionals, and program areas — who work together to create safe, supportive, and empowering spaces for our community.”

Read more here.

Image source: Kambu Health

2025-26 Higher Risk Weather Season Preparedness Briefing – First Nations peak bodies and stakeholders

A preparedness briefing for First Nations peak bodies and stakeholders will be held on Friday 31 October from 10:00am – 11:00am (AEDT) ahead of the 2025-26 Higher Risk Weather Season (HRWS). This briefing will provide the national seasonal outlook and an overview of Australian Government capabilities.

In addition to providing the sectors with the seasonal outlook and overview of Australian Government capability, this briefing will provide participants with the opportunity raise any concerns and ask questions relating to Australian Government preparedness, response and recovery.

This meeting will be chaired by Joe Buffone, Deputy Coordinator General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

Please note that this meeting will be recorded for NEMA administrative purposes and may be shared with Australian Government colleagues to inform their 2025-26 HRWS preparedness activities.

Meeting details:

Microsoft Teams

Image source: Australian Government National Emergency Management Agency

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.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.

NACCHO Sector News: 21 October 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health News

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.

Support at Home communication toolkit for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Providers, peak bodies, advocacy organisations and community groups can use this toolkit to inform older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their families and carers about the new Support at Home program. The program starts along with the new Aged Care Act from 1 November 2025.

Learn more and access the toolkit.

Let's Yarn about ageing well - Support at home: Communication toolkit.

Let’s Yarn about ageing well – Support at home: Communication toolkit.

Cyclists unite to bring bike benefits to remote Kimberley communities

Fifteen cyclists from the United Kingdom will soon start pedalling to raise funds for Australian program, The Bike Creative, the brainchild of school teacher Chris Sellings.

In 2023, Chris Sellings, resident of Boorloo/Perth and originally from Twickenham, England, moved with his wife to work at a remote school over 3,000km away in Turkey Creek in the East Kimberley. Amid the challenges of isolation, about 200 kilometres from Kununurra in Gija Country, Mr Sellings saw a simple but powerful way to make a difference to the community: bikes.

A former cycling coach in Europe, Mr Sellings started a bike club at Ngalangangpum School (the name means ‘mother and child’) in the woodwork shop, teaching kids how to fix and build their own bikes.

The impact was immediate and positive. The club quickly became a go-to place; kids wanted to learn, to create, to ride.

Mr Sellings said parents watched with some amazement as their children returned home with bikes they’d built themselves and the community came alive with the sight of children cycling everywhere.

“The kids are happy, which makes the adults happier. They go to bed earlier because they’re tired and want to get up and ride their bikes,” said parent, Benita Everett.

Read the full article

three kids and an adult repairing bikes.

First Nations communities welcome local climate solutions

More than $650,000 has been given to 24 local clean energy initiatives that will benefit many First Nations communities

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal is the only national foundation specifically focused on ensuring the social and economic strength of Australia’s remote, rural and regional communities.

Established in 2000, the FRRR awarded the 24 funding grants to address localised impacts of global warming and energy industry transitions via its Community Led Climate Solutions program.

The program supports locally-led projects that inform and empower locals to adapt or act to mitigate risks caused by a changing climate, and also supports initiatives that empower community groups to assist locals impacted by transitions away from fossil fuel industries and/or transitions to clean energy industry.

The $652,740 in grants are funded through two streams, with grants ranging from $19,186 for a native plant nursery in Moora, WA, to $75,000 for an Indigenous STEM education program to be rolled out in multiple remote communities across the country.

Read the full article.

The Yued ILUA area includes the towns of Leeman, Jurien Bay, Cervantes, Gingin, Calingiri, Coorow and Moora and covers more than 26,0000sqkm.

The Yued ILUA area includes the towns of Leeman, Jurien Bay, Cervantes, Gingin, Calingiri, Coorow and Moora and covers more than 26,0000sqkm. (Image: Supplied)

Chlamydia rates dip among teens

There’s been a substantial and sustained decline in chlamydia notifications in 15–19-year-olds since 2010 in QLD, according to Queensland Health.

Finally, some positive STI news!

We’ve seen significantly higher rates of STIs in line with increased testing nationally, and chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI in Australia.

But recent analysis of 20 years’ worth of ABS data for Queensland show the state may be heading in the right direction.

Chlamydia notifications per 100,000 people in those aged 15-19 years almost quadrupled between 2000 and 2010, but then a downward trend began, which was sustained until the end of the dataset in 2019.

Read the full article.

Decorative image

Looks like the kids are all right after all, at least in Queensland.

 

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.

 

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au and we will feature it in the news.

Email us your story with some images to: NACCHOCommunicationsandMedia@naccho.org.au
and we will feature it in the news.