The Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) has welcomed the Albanese Government's $1.7 billion commitment to fully fund public hospitals for one year, to reduce waiting times and ease pressure on emergency departments.
However, QAIHC has urged that some of the investment be directed toward First Nations health initiatives.
QAIHC Chairman Matthew Cooke called for investment in building the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled health organisation (ACCHO) sector’s capacity to collaborate with hospital services and deliver care in the community and at home, for example, through hospital-in-the-home programs.
“First Nations health must be funded as part of this deal,” Mr. Cooke said.
“ACCHOs understand Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and are best equipped to support their emotional, physical, and cultural wellbeing.”
The Albanese Government proposed the one-year extension for 2025–2026 after running out of time to negotiate a five-year renewal of the National Health Reform Agreement (NHRA) ahead of the next federal election.
The deal increases the Commonwealth’s public hospital funding by 12 per cent to $33.91 billion in the next financial year.
Mr. Cooke said QAIHC had been an active participant in in national negotiations about the NHRA. The NHRA mid-term review had stressed the "critical importance" of addressing First Nations health in future agreements and recommended including a dedicated schedule for First Nations health.
The review also called for a “shared commitment and requirement” to work with ACCHOs and local communities in service design and commissioning.
Mr. Cooke said the one-year extension presented an important opportunity to include First Nations health.
“The Government must acknowledge the essential role of the ACCHO sector in the health system,” he said.
“This partnership can deliver improved care for First Nations people while reducing pressure on the public healthcare system.”
ENDS
Media contact:
Samantha Townsend
QAIHC Communications Manager
E: samantha.townsend@qaihc.com.au
M: 0417 080 203
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