PAMS teams understand and consider the spiritual, social, economic and cultural wellbeing in overall health. This personal approach to healthcare assists with client treatment while also supporting everything surrounding getting treatment, whether it’s travel, health education or family support.

In 2022–23, PAMS provided 42,000 services and supported the health of nearly 4,500 Aboriginal people in the East Pilbara region, including in the communities of Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu, Kunawarritji and Newman.

In Northwest Queensland on Kalkadoon Country, in the town of Mount Isa, the team at Mithangkaya Nguli (‘To Always Stand Up for Something’ in Kalkatungu language) – Young People Ahead (MNYPA) is leading strong children and youth programs with community voices at the centre.

The corporation was founded on a collective desire to make a space for Aboriginal people facing challenges, particularly children and young people at risk. Its founding Elders envisioned a platform that would empower children and young people, help them grow, and build a strong sense of community. 

The team at Marigurim Yalaam Indigenous Corporation for Community Justice (MYICCJ) is working tirelessly towards a better future in justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  

MYICCJ has come a long way in the past 2 years. From being on the brink of folding in 2021, the board, including one community Elder and people who work in a variety of areas, worked with ORIC to get MYICCJ back up and running to thriving – where it is today.

Warrigunya (Warriors Home) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation is developing programs for Aboriginal men to have stable housing and turn their lives around following prison release. 

The organisation is looking forward to Stage 1 completion of a new building in October from where they’ll conduct their work: looking to break the cycle of re-offending and helping men transition back into society. 

From mental health to brain health and healing

Sheryl’s career shifted into community services. There, she was trained by neuroplasticity scientists and began to think about how this breakthrough could work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. 

If the brain changes in response to life events, then with the right approaches, it could change to heal itself and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. 

During NAIDOC week each year, First Nations surfers and their families gather on Gumbaynggirr Country (Coffs Harbour, NSW) to take part in some healthy competition while promoting culture, connection and wellbeing.

This is the Naru Surf Gathering, the Naru Indigenous Corporation’s annual surfing event. Since 2017, the popular event has brought hundreds of people to saltwater Country in honour of Eric Mercy.