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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this website contains the names and images of people who have passed
271
Funding for implementation of National Aboriginal Health Strategy
That the implementation of the National Aboriginal Health Strategy, as endorsed by the Joint Ministerial Forum, be regarded as a crucial element in addressing the underlying issues the Commission was directed to take into account, and that funds be urgently made available to allow the Strategy to be implemented.
Aboriginal Justice Caucus Assessment
Recommendation 271 was a Commonwealth Government responsibility. While we have concerns about funding provided for Aboriginal health services, these are outlined in other recommendations.
Background
The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC) highlighted that comprehensive recommendations for improving Aboriginal health were developed by the National Aboriginal Health Strategy Working Party in 1989. The Working Party comprised Aboriginal community members and experts and made recommendations to improve Aboriginal health through increased community control, enhanced service infrastructure, and adequate funding. The Commonwealth Government committed to funding the Strategy but at a level significantly below what was required. The Commission estimated that less than a fifth of the funding needed.
Actions Taken Since Last Review
Department of Health
Ministers for health and mental health and senior departmental executives gave evidence to the Yoorrook Justice Commission in June 2024. Inequitable funding for Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations was discussed. See Recommendation 259 for further details.