The NACCHO (National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) Members Conference proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of 27 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHOs) reaching significant milestones in their history. This year's national conference acknowledges anniversaries ranging from 25 to 50 years, a testament to community-led health initiatives' enduring strength and resilience.
Held in Canberra, the conference not only marks these historic milestones but also brings together delegates from across Australia to celebrate the successes of these vital health services and reflect on their impact on improving the health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Donnella Mills, Chair of NACCHO, said:
"Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services are more than health providers-they are the heartbeat of our communities. These services have served as pillars of strength for decades, providing culturally appropriate, comprehensive primary health care. Today, we celebrate their longevity and the dedication of the communities and health professionals who sustain them."
Pat Turner, CEO of NACCHO, added:
"These anniversaries reflect the vision and resilience of our communities in taking control of their health and well-being. They are powerful examples of what is possible when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples lead the way in designing and delivering health services. As we celebrate these milestones, we are reminded of the vital role our services play in addressing health disparities and building healthier futures for our people."
Since establishing the first Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service in Redfern in 1971, the network has grown to 146 services, managing over 550 clinics across remote, regional, and urban areas. Together, these clinics deliver more than 3.1 million episodes of care annually to over 410,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
As NACCHO celebrates these milestones, it highlights the enduring legacy and impact of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, reaffirming its commitment to supporting their longevity and strengthening their role in improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through self-determination and culturally grounded care.
Anniversary Highlights
- 50 Years: Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Girudala Community Co-operative Society Ltd, Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation, The Victorian Aboriginal Health Service Co-operative Limited, Nunkuwarrin Yunti of SA Inc
40 Years: Cummeragunja Health and Development Aboriginal Corporation, Illawarra Aboriginal Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation, Injilinji Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Corporation for Children and Youth Services, Nganampa Health Council Inc, Oak Valley (Maralinga) Aboriginal Corporation, Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Pintupi Homelands Health Service, Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation
30 Years: Charleville and Western Areas Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Limited, Goondir Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Health Services, Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Service, Ngangganawili Aboriginal Community Controlled Health and Medical Services Aboriginal Corporation, NPA Family and Community Services Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Corporation, Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service Inc, Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, Wirraka Maya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Yulu-Burri-Ba Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health
- 25 Years: Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative Limited, Galambila Aboriginal Corporation, Lake Tyers Health & Childrens Services Association Inc., Mala'la Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Mutitjulu Community Health Service (Aboriginal Corporation)
