$1.95 million grant to help improve Aboriginal child development
The WA Government has committed to improving access to culturally responsive healthcare services for Aboriginal children and families, with new funding for .
Through a $1.95 million grant agreement, the service will provide child development services to children up to 18 years of age in the Geraldton region of the State through a culturally responsive, evidence-informed, and comprehensive model of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service delivery.
This investment will support the delivery of child development services for the next two years and will provide an alternative option for Aboriginal children and families accessing these services, while easing pressures on the waitlist.
This partnership between the Cook Labor Government and the service will provide clinical, allied health, and family support based on the individual needs of the child and family, supported by a comprehensive model of paediatric health care.
The agreement is designed to improve access to high-quality child development services, including paediatrician-led care, helping Aboriginal children and families receive coordinated care closer to home and within their communities.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat said every child deserved access to quality health care and developmental support, no matter where they live.
Tackling childhood development
“This partnership with the Cook Labor Government and Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service recognises the importance of culturally responsive care delivered by trusted Aboriginal health organisations,” she said.
“We are committed to improving Aboriginal health outcomes, and by working closely with local organisations we can ensure services are more easily accessible and community focused, providing the care families need, when they need it.”
Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service chief executive officer Deborah Woods said they were excited to be awarded a grant which tackles childhood development in the Mid West.
“The funds will assist and strengthen GRAMS’s ability to provided targeted and holistic services to children in our catchment,” she said.
“It will be a powerful collaboration which will benefit our children most, both in the short term and long term.”
