Local Decision Making has been put into the hands of an Aboriginal-controlled health service in North East Arnhem Land.
On July 1, 2019, Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation (Miwatj) will assume operations of the Primary Health Care (PHC) centres in Gapuwiyak and Ramingining.
The Territory Government is determined to restore local decision making to communities.
Northern Territory Health has worked with Miwatj and the Commonwealth Government Department of Health to transition the operation of the Top End Health Service’s (TEHS) Gapuwiyak and Ramingining Primary Health Care centres to Aboriginal community control.
Miwatj already manages health centres in Nhulunbuy, Gunyangara, Yirrkala, Milingimbi and Galiwin’ku.
Miwatj will receive $3.3 million per annum from the Northern Territory Government and $3.2 million per annum from the Commonwealth Government to provide PHC services in Gapuwiyak and Ramingining.
The majority of TEHS staff working at Gapuwiyak and Ramingining PHC Centres will transfer to Miwatj to maintain continuity of health services and local knowledge of the communities.
Increasing community involvement in the planning and delivery of local health services brings additional health benefits for the community.
Source: NT Government