The Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia has been awarded $17.6 million to deliver a mental health pilot to improve the quality of life for Aboriginal people.
The regional Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Model of Service pilot program aims to increase access to social and emotional wellbeing and healthcare services for Aboriginal people of all ages in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Mid-West, Goldfields and South-West regions of WA.
Local Aboriginal community-controlled organisations will run the program in their communities:
- Bega Garnbirringu Health Service in Kalgoorlie;
- Derby Aboriginal Health Service in Derby;
- Wirraka Maya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation in South Hedland;
- Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service in Geraldton; and
- South West Aboriginal Medical Service in Bunbury.
Through culturally secure prevention and community development, psychosocial support, targeted interventions and coordinated care by multidisciplinary teams, the pilot is expected to improve quality of life for Aboriginal people.
The Mental Health Commission will work with the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia to support the governance and evaluation of the pilot.
As stated by Mental Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Improving the health outcomes of Aboriginal Western Australians is a priority and I am pleased to deliver on this commitment which aims to help people achieve and sustain good health.
"The Social and Emotional Wellbeing Model of Service pilot program will be delivered by Aboriginal organisations that know their communities and the importance of providing culturally secure and holistic healthcare.
"The pilot complements the State Government's work in progressing towards the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which aims to reduce deaths by suicide and enhance the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal people across Australia."
