The Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 © 2013 Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales

This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced either in whole or part without the prior written approval of the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales (AH&MRC). ISSN 2200-9906

The Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales Level 3, 66 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Phone: +61 2 9212 4777 Fax: +61 2 9212 7211 Postal Address: PO Box 1565, Strawberry Hills 2012 Web: www.ahmrc.org.au [ABN 66 085 654 397]

Edited by Matthew Rodgers – Media & Communications Coordinator, AH&MRC

Design by Publicstyle Web: publicstyle.com.au

About the cover

Cover art: Steve Morgan

About the artist: Steve Morgan is a Gamilaraay man from Walgett, North South Wales. Steve is an emerging artist now living in Sydney. His passions include music, art and being around the mob.

About the artwork: The Cycle of Life No. 3 The four corners represent the four seasons. Each season has a specific role in the growth cycle. The circle in the centre depicts a seed that is affected by the four seasons. The community is always present and needs to be nurtured and strengthened throughout the four seasons.

The AH&MRC wishes to advise people of Aboriginal descent that this document may contain images of persons now deceased. Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales Annual Report 2012-13 Contents Our Organisation

2 Chair’s Report 3 Board of Directors 6 About the AH&MRC 10 CEO’s Report 12 Aboriginal Health College 18 Business Development Unit 20 Accreditation 20 Governance 21 IT/ICT 23 Workforce 24 Ethics Committee 26 Public Health 28 Blood Borne Viruses 30 Cancer 30 Child & Maternal Health 31 Chronic Disease 32 Sexual Health 33 Drug & Alcohol 34 Social & Emotional Wellbeing 36 Tobacco Resistance & Control 38 Continuous Quality Improvement 39 Public Health Medical Officer 39 GP Forum & Clinical Update 40 Research 40 Public Health Education & Training

Our Performance

41 Financial Report for the Year Ended June 30, 2013 CHAIR’S REPORT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

A Message from the Chairperson

Once again, we find ourselves at the end Services to plan, manage and deliver Importantly, through the continued of another busy and productive year, primary health care services that support of a number of key partners, the and so it is with great pride that I present respond to the needs and aspirations of AH&MRC has been able to deliver posi- the Annual Report 2012-2013 of the the Aboriginal clients, families and tive outcomes in a number of program Aboriginal Health and Medical Research communities they were set up to serve. areas, all of which are outlined in the body Council of NSW (AH&MRC). The AH&MRC has consistently of this Annual Report. We would like to You will read on the following pages advocated for the continued support of the thank our many partners for the commit- about the efforts and achievements of our Aboriginal Community Controlled Health ment and respect they have demonstrated organisation, all of which are in pur- sector and the importance of its unique over many years of working with us. suit of our vision of Aboriginal health, and ongoing role in the development of wherein Aboriginal people achieve policy, planning and service delivery. physical, cultural, social and emotional In the spirit of our cultural values and wellbeing and contribute to the overall our vision for Aboriginal health, we have health, wellbeing and strength of their confronted many new challenges that communities. have arisen from the changing health care The AH&MRC’s vision continues landscape. In order to secure our future to focus on achieving health equity for as a sector we have strengthened our Aboriginal people by supporting our engagement with Member Services In the spirit of our cultural values and our vision for Aboriginal health, the AH&MRC has confronted many new challenges that have arisen from the changing health care landscape members, the Aboriginal Community through workshops with a focus on unity, Finally, thank you also to our Member Controlled Health Services of NSW, to renewal and growth of a model worthy Services for their support and involve- provide comprehensive and culturally of recognition and expansion. ment in contributing to the work of the appropriate primary health care to the The AH&MRC has also worked with AH&MRC. Thank you for allowing Aboriginal community. We have focused the National Aboriginal Community your staff members to take up roles as on key opportunities to advance our Controlled Health Organisation Directors, for attending our many meet- short-term objectives while also continu- (NACCHO) and its Affiliates from ings and workshops, and for participating ing to make good progress toward achiev- other jurisdictions to facilitate input and on the steering committees for our ing our long-term strategic objectives. engagement with policies and strategies conferences and other projects. We I would like to acknowledge the com- at the national level. couldn’t do it without you. mitment of the AH&MRC Board of Establishing or strengthening relation- The AH&MRC remains steadfast in Directors, who are the cornerstone of our ships with external organisations was our commitment to achieving a healthy organisation. By applying their experi- another focus of the AH&MRC over the future for Aboriginal people in NSW. ence and expertise to their roles, they past year, especially as the dust settles fol- provide unique Aboriginal community lowing the wide ranging reforms at state Yours in unity, leadership and contribute directly to the and national levels. Our efforts in this stability and success of the AH&MRC. area include the NSW Aboriginal Health The Board’s approach to the enhance- Partnership Agreement and the Aborigi- ment of process, in particular, has been nal Health Framework Agreement. The exemplary during the past year. AH&MRC also remains committed to The AH&MRC staff is also to be com- working through the Coalition of mended for their hard work throughout Aboriginal Peak Organisations to influ- Mrs Christine Corby, OAM the past year and for helping our Member ence Aboriginal Affairs policy in NSW. Chairperson

2 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The AH&MRC Board of Directors

Mrs Christine Corby, OAM Mr Craig Ardler Chairperson Illawarra North West Mr Ardler is the current CEO of the Mrs Corby is a Gamilaraay woman from South Coast Medical Service Aboriginal north-western New South Wales. She was Corporation (SCMSAC), a role he also born in Sydney but later returned to her held from 1999-2006. He has a wealth of mother’s country in Walgett, where she experience in management, policy and has lived for the past 38 years. community development with several Mrs Corby was the Legal Secretary for organisations. the NSW Aboriginal Legal Service for 11 During his first term as the CEO of years. When funding was announced in SCMSAC, Mr Ardler helped grow the 1986 for the establishment of a local organisation from five staff and an annual Aboriginal Medical Service in Walgett, turnover of $275,000 to 35 employees she commenced in the role of CEO, a and a turnover of $3.7 million, and he position she has held for 27 years. She also played a key role in rolling out many new holds the position of CEO of Brewarrina and urgently required services to the Aboriginal Health Service Limited. local Aboriginal community. Mrs Corby is the Chairperson of the Mr Ardler has also worked for the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council of NSW (AH&MRC), is one of Council as Policy and Liaison Manager, the NSW representatives on the and he was recently employed within the National Aboriginal Community Con- Australian Public Service as a Legal and trolled Health Organisation (NACCHO) Education Officer through the Depart- Board and also attends NSW Aboriginal ment of Sustainability, Environment, Health Partnership meetings and NSW Water, Population and Communities at Aboriginal Health Forum meetings. She Booderee National Park. is also the Chairperson of Bila Muuji Mr Ardler’s other current board posi- Aboriginal Health Service Incorporated tions include Chairman of the Booderee (representing 11 Member Services of the National Park Board of Management and AH&MRC) in the (former) Greater West- Chairman of the Wreck Bay Aboriginal ern Area Health Service region. Community Council, where he has Mrs Corby is a Justice of the Peace been elected to many executive roles and holds a Graduate Diploma of Health since 1989. Service Management, a Diploma of Health Sciences and a Diploma of Management. She was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2005, the Centenary Medal in 2003 and received the NSW Health Hall of Fame Award in Aboriginal Health in 2005.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 3 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Ms Dea Delaney-Thiele Anne Greenaway Ms Pam Handy Metropolitan Far South Coast Far West Ms Delaney-Thiele is a very proud Dun- Ms Greenaway is the current CEO of Ms Handy was born in Brewarrina, NSW ghutti woman born at the Burnt Bridge Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land and moved to the lands of the Barkindji Mission in Kempsey, NSW. She has more Council and the past CEO of South Coast on the Murray and Darling Rivers near than 20 years’ experience working within Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation Dareton-Coomealla. the Aboriginal Community Controlled and of Katungul Aboriginal Corporation Ms Handy is currently the Chair of the Health sector. Community and Medical Services. She Board of Directors of Coomealla Aborig- Ms Delaney-Thiele is the current holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of inal Health Corporation. She has worked AH&MRC Metropolitan Regional Direc- Letters (History). in administration, education, training tor, a position she also held from 1994- Ms Greenaway worked for TAFE NSW and welfare positions in a range of public 2000. She is also currently the Regional for 17 years in Aboriginal Education service and community organisations, Coordinator for the Healthy Lifestyles and Training and is a member and past including holding positions as Chair- Program at the Aboriginal Medical Ser- Board member of: AbSec (Aboriginal person, Secretary and Director with the vice, Western Sydney. Child, Family and Community Care State local Aboriginal Land Council; Repre- Ms Delaney-Thiele was the previous Secretariat NSW Inc); Cobowra CDEP sentative of Western Aboriginal Com- Chief Executive Officer of the National (Community Development and Employ- munity Liaison Officer; Regional and Aboriginal Community Controlled ment Program); ATSIEN (Aboriginal State Representative NSW Police Force Health Organisation (NACCHO), where and Torres Strait Islander Employment Committee; Regional Representative with she was responsible for the management Network); SEALS (South Eastern Region Western Region Shire Council; Regional of the national Secretariat. She is also a Aboriginal Legal Service); Oolong House; President of the Western College of Adult Board Member of the Deerubbin Local and the SESIAHS (South Eastern Sydney and Community Education Commit- Aboriginal Land Council. and Illawarra Area Health Service) Area tee, Dubbo; Regional Representative for Other positions and representations Health Advisory Committee. School Education in Riverina Committee; held by Ms Delaney-Thiele over the Currently, Ms Greenaway is the Chair Riverina Region and State Representative years include: the NSW representative to of the Advisory Committee for the on NSW Aboriginal Education Consul- NACCHO (1994-1997); member on the Wandarma Regional Drug and Alcohol tant Group Committee; Representative NSW Aboriginal Mental Health Advisory Service in Bega and sits on the Advisory on the Bila Muuji Aboriginal Community Committee (1995); representative on the Committee for the Aboriginal Health Health Service Committee; and support NSW State Partnership Forum (from and Cancer Services - Working Together lecturer with the University of Technol- 1996); Chairperson of the Kamaku Build- (AH&CS - WT) Project. Anne is a strong ogy in Sydney, where she also worked as ing Enterprises Aboriginal Corporation advocate for women and children’s health a supervisor and tutor of students. (since 1996); and Chairperson of the and wellbeing issues. Ms Handy was previously CEO of Coo- Murawina Mt Druitt Aboriginal Child- mealla Health Aboriginal Corporation care Centre in Sydney. Mr Tim Horan from 1995-2002, which included adminis- Ms Delaney-Thiele was Deputy CEO Central West tration of the Balranald Aboriginal Health and CEO of Daruk Aboriginal Com- Mr Horan is new to the health scene, Service in 2000, and she also managed munity Controlled Medical Service Co-op having spent 20 years with the NSW Brewarrina Aboriginal Health Service Ltd (now Aboriginal Medical Service Police. He has been involved in sup- Limited for a brief period in 2003. Ms Western Sydney) and has been a member porting local communities for many Handy was appointed as the AH&MRC’s of many other Aboriginal organisations, years and is committed to the people of Far West Representative in 1995-2002 and such as AMS Redfern, Deerubbin Local western NSW, particularly those com- again in 2011-2013. She also represented Aboriginal Land Council, Aboriginal munities that are socially disadvantaged. the AH&MRC on the Board of Directors, Housing Co-op Redfern, Winnunga Nim- Mr Horan has been a Councillor on Wal- of the National Aboriginal Community mityjah in Canberra and the AH&MRC gett and Coonamble Shire Council, and Controlled Health Organisation Ethics Committee. served as Mayor of Coonamble Council (NACCHO). Ms Delaney-Thiele served on the from March 2004 until late 2012. Ms Handy served as the Aboriginal Board of Directors for the Western Syd- Mr Horan was employed by the Coon- Community Liaison Officer for the ney Area Health Service (1996-2000) and amble Aboriginal Health Service as the Dareton, NSW Police Force from 2006- the New Children’s Hospital in Westmead CEO in August 2008 and continues to 2012. She is also currently the CEO of (1995-2000). She is a member of the Aus- drive the new service forward, guiding Dareton Local Aboriginal Land Council, tralian Institute of Company Directors the organisation as it provides vital health having previously held the position of and has been a member of the Australian services to the area and contributes to Chairperson from 2006-2010. College of Health Service Executives Closing the Gap initiatives. since 1997.

4 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Mrs Val Keed Alliance Healthy for Life Consortium (as Mrs Cathie Sinclair Lower Central West Chair); the Aboriginal Maternal Infant Central Coast Mrs Keed was born in Peak Hill, NSW Health Strategy Steering Committee; the Mrs Sinclair is the Chief Executive and is descended from a long line of Partnership in Aboriginal Care Regional Officer of the Yerin Aboriginal Health proud Wiradjuri people in this area. Program; and the Department of Aborigi- Services Inc, and has worked with the She was a founding member of the nal Affairs Regional Engagement Group. Aboriginal Community Controlled AH&MRC since its establishment (ini- Health sector for 13 years. She is a tially as the Aboriginal Health Resource Ms Selena Lyons qualified Audiometrist, has a Diploma Committee) in 1985. Mrs Keed has held Riverina of Community Management and was a the position of AH&MRC Lower Central Ms Lyons is a proud Wiradjuri woman, Teacher’s Assistant at the Boori Minim- West Regional Director on many occa- originally from Narrandera within the bah Homework Centre in 1994-95. sions over the years, most recently having Riverina, who has worked in manage- Mrs Sinclair is the Chairperson of been re-elected in 2009. ment roles in both Aboriginal communi- Muru Aboriginal Corporation; a found- Mrs Keed is currently the Chairper- ty controlled organisations and govern- ing member of local Aboriginal Student son of the Peak Hill Aboriginal Medical ment agencies for the past 25 years. She Support and Parent Awareness (ASSPA) Service. She is also involved in many worked with the Department of Health Committee; a member of Aboriginal community-based organisations in the and Ageing in Canberra as Manager Interagency for Central Coast; the Miring region, including the Peak Hill Local of the Indigenous Health ACT Office; Aboriginal Women’s Group; the Central Aboriginal Land Council; Warramunga Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Coast Aboriginal Community Consulting Aboriginal Advancement Co-operative; Health Service in Canberra as Operations Group; the Local Aboriginal Land Coun- Mid Lachlan Aboriginal Housing Man- Manager; and Centrelink as Manager, cil; the Mingaletta Aboriginal Commu- agement Association; Weigelli Drug Indigenous Services Area - South West. nity Organisation; the Central Coast Ab- and Alcohol Centre (Cowra); and the Ms Lyons is the CEO of the Riverina original Community Congress; the NSW National Parks Peak Hill/Bogan River Medical and Dental Aboriginal Cor- Aboriginal Health Priority Taskforce; and Aboriginal Reference Group. poration, a position she has held since a former member of the AH&MRC Eth- As an AH&MRC Director, Mrs Keed March 2010, and has been a Director on ics Committee; and past Chairperson of also holds the Chairperson position on the AH&MRC’s Board of since October Muru Aboriginal Corporation. the AH&MRC Ethics Committee and is a 2011. She has a Diploma in Practice nominated delegate to NACCHO. As well Management; Certificate IV in Medical Mrs Donna Taylor as her local commitments, Mrs Keed also Administration; Diploma in Legal Advo- Central Tablelands represents the AH&MRC and NACCHO cacy; and Certificates in Small Business Ms Taylor is a proud Murri woman from on various state and national steering Management, Office Management Skills the Kamilaroi Nation, born and raised in committees. and Project Fundamentals. Ms Lyons Moree, northern NSW. After completing is currently a Director on the Board of High School in Moree, Ms Taylor started Mr David Kennedy Murrumbidgee Medicare Local. her career as secretary to Mr Lyall Munro North Coast (snr), who was an executive member Mr Kennedy is an Eora man with family Ms Rochelle Patten of the National Aboriginal Conference ties in the Gumbainggirr Nation on the Murray River (NAC) in the early 1980s. North Coast of NSW. David held the posi- Ms Patten is a proud Yorta Yorta woman Ms Taylor has worked for Pius X tion Chair of the Many Rivers Aboriginal and a founding member the AH&MRC. Aboriginal Corporation for the past 26 Medical Service Alliance from 2006 to She is the current Chairperson of the years, commencing as a trainee book- 2012, an alliance of 10 Aboriginal Health Cummeragunja Housing and Develop- keeper and now in the role of CEO. She Services on the North Coast of NSW. ment Aboriginal Corporation. has served as a representative on the Mr Kennedy is a former Director and Ms Patten has had a long involvement Moree Health Service Advisory Commit- former Deputy Chairperson of the Coffs in several Aboriginal community organ- tee and also participates in the AH&MRC Harbour and District Local Aboriginal isations, including the Victorian Aborigi- Chronic Disease Working Party. Land Council. He is also a member of nu- nal Legal Service, Victorian Aboriginal Ms Taylor administers the Bambaa-Ba merous regional and Local Health District Child Care Agency, the Victorian Protecting Aboriginal Children Together committees. Mr Kennedy is the current Aborigines Advancement League (PACT) office in Moree, Toomelah Chair of the Mid North Coast Local (through its Aboriginal Women’s Refuge) Aboriginal Health Clinic, Mungindi Ab- Health District Closing the Gap Subcom- and the Cummeragunja Building Pro- original Health Clinic and Kiah Preschool. mittee and is a current Board member gram. Ms Taylor has actively been involved in on the Mid North Coast Local Health Ms Patten is a member of the Yorta the NSW Knockout Health Challenge District Governing Council. He was also Yorta Nations Incorporated, the Yembee- 2013 since its inception. a member of the Regional Aboriginal na Education Centre, and also currently Chronic Disease Program Management sits on the Koori Court in Shepparton, Committee; the Many Rivers AMS Victoria.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 5 ABOUT US Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Who We Are: The Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW Working for a better health future

6 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 ABOUT US Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The Aboriginal Health and Medical definition of health, as stated in the 1989 Research Council of New South Wales National Aboriginal Health Strategy: (AH&MRC) is the peak representative Aboriginal health means not just the body and voice of Aboriginal communi- physical wellbeing of an individual but ties on health in NSW. We represent our the social, emotional and cultural well- members, the Aboriginal Community being of the whole Community in which Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) each individual is able to achieve their that deliver culturally appropriate com- full potential as a human being, thereby prehensive primary health care to their bringing about the total wellbeing of communities. their Community. It is a whole-of-life Aboriginal community control has view and includes the cyclical concept its origins in Aboriginal people’s right to of life-death-life. self-determination, as outlined in the 2007 United Nations Declaration on the Rights The AH&MRC is governed by a Board of Indigenous Peoples. This is the right to of Directors, who are Aboriginal people be involved in health service delivery and elected by our members on a regional decision making according to protocols basis. We represent our members and or procedures determined by Aboriginal their communities on Aboriginal health communities based on the Aboriginal at state and national levels.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 7 ABOUT US Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

AH&MRC of NSW Organisational Structure

Board of Directors

Chief Ethics Executive Committee O icer

Executive Assistant

Public Policy Health Legal & Coordination Policy Policy

Media & Finance Operations Communications

Aboriginal Business SEWB Health Development Workforce Support Unit College Unit Our Vision for Aboriginal Health • Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services are accessible, Continuous Public Public sustainable, adequately resourced, Quality Health 1 Health 2 have a skilled workforce, and meet Improvement the health needs and aspirations of Aboriginal people. • Aboriginal people experience self-determination in all areas of their lives. O ice & • Aboriginal people achieve physical, Human Asset cultural, social and emotional well- Resources Management being, and contribute to the overall health, wellbeing and strength of their communities.

8 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 ABOUT US Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Our Focus Areas We aim to achieve our goals by focusing on four priority areas: • Self-determination • Relationships • Workforce development • Health services and programs Our Objectives The following outcome indicators will tell us how far we progress towards achieving our goals: • There are improvements in health outcomes for Aboriginal people that reduce the current gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people’s health outcomes in NSW. • There is an increase in the number, scope and capacity of Aboriginal Our Purpose Our Goals Community Controlled Health • Lead the Aboriginal health agenda The goals of the AH&MRC are to: Services. for better policies, programs, 1. Improve the health of Aboriginal • The Aboriginal Community services and practices. people across NSW. Controlled approach to service • Ensure Aboriginal knowledge 2. Improve Aboriginal people’s access to delivery is acknowledged and informs decision-making processes. culturally appropriate, high-quality, supported as a best-practice model • Support, strengthen and sustain comprehensive primary health care for improving health services and Aboriginal Community Controlled services. outcomes for Aboriginal people. Health Services. 3. Increase acceptance and respect for • External stakeholders, including Aboriginal Community Control as state and federal governments, Our Values a best-practice model for achieving consistently seek the AH&MRC’s The AH&MRC values and commits to: Aboriginal health improvement. expertise in planning and decision • Aboriginal culture and sovereignty 4. Achieve universal recognition of the making on Aboriginal health in • Aboriginal Community Control AH&MRC as the lead representative NSW and act on the direction they • Aboriginal wholistic health organisation on Aboriginal health are given. • Cultural respect, integrity and in NSW. inclusion 5. Strengthen the capacity of ACCHSs Our Members • Human rights and social justice in NSW to deliver high-quality, The list of AH&MRC Members can • Quality and accountability comprehensive, wholistic primary be found on the AH&MRC website: • Genuine and meaningful partnership health care services. http://www.ahmrc.org.au

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 9 CEO’S REPORT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Over the past year, the Aboriginal Health To improve the quality and effectiveness and Medical Research Council of NSW of relationships with all stakeholders. (AH&MRC) has continued to deliver in In light of the far-reaching changes all the key areas of its Strategic Plan 2011- brought about by government health 2014. These are to: reforms in recent years, reviews are • Increase the effectiveness of the underway in regard to two of our key AH&MRC’s active involvement in external relationships. decision making regarding Aborigi- The AH&MRC is working with the nal health in NSW. NSW Ministry of Health to strengthen • Improve the quality and effectiveness the NSW Aboriginal Health Partner- of relationships with all stakeholders. ship Agreement, taking account of new • Strengthen the capability and com- health structures. At the national level, petence of the Aboriginal health the participants on the NSW Aboriginal workforce. Health Forum have had ongoing discus- • Ensure Aboriginal health programs sions about the revision of the Aborigi- and services are effective, sustainable nal Health Framework Agreement and and reflect local Aboriginal com- are currently re-examining the broader munity needs. principles and purpose of the Forum and Within these key areas, some of the what can be achieved. The AH&MRC also highlights of the financial year 2012-13 has effective relationships with a number of include: non-government organisations, and these are producing positive outcomes for the To increase the effectiveness of the Aboriginal community in relation to health. AH&MRC’s active involvement in decision making regarding Aboriginal To ensure Aboriginal health programs health in NSW. and services are effective, sustainable We believe that in order to achieve these and reflect local Aboriginal community outcomes the recognition, protection and needs. continued advancement of the inherent As always, the work of the AH&MRC rights, cultures and traditions of over the past financial year has involved Aboriginal people must be acknowledged. supporting Aboriginal Community TheUnited Nations Declaration on the Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) Rights of Indigenous Peoples reinforces in the delivery of programs and services this imperative and emphasises the role that are focused on the improvement of of self-determination in any processes Aboriginal health in NSW. to address disadvantage within the Supporting the business quality of Aboriginal community. Adopted in 2007, ACCHSs is the primary focus of our the Declaration upholds the rights of Business Development Unit. In 2012-13 indigenous peoples and calls on states the AH&MRC continued to provide to consult and cooperate in good faith valuable support to members in the form with the peoples concerned through their of consultations, site visits and one-on-one own representative institutions in order activities, all tailored to the specific needs to obtain their “free, prior and informed and requirements of our Member Services. consent before adopting and implement- The Business Development Unit’s ing legislative or administrative measures Accreditation Team supported our that may affect them”. Member Services to achieve both clinical Chief Executive Achieving health equity for NSW will and organisational accreditation under require governments, the Aboriginal the Commonwealth’s Establishing Quality Officer Report: Community Controlled Health sector and Health Standards Continuation (EQHS-C) other health services to work together measure. Highlights towards the goal of a NSW health system On behalf of our Member Services, the that provides good access and good care AH&MRC has continued to promote the 2012-13 for Aboriginal people. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health

10 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 CEO’S REPORT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Services model and to raise issues with tance and Control (A-TRAC) program from the Australian Nursing and Mid- government bodies and regulators, rolled out several locally designed activi- wifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) particularly those relating to incorporation ties to address smoking in Aboriginal to conduct the Diploma of Nursing. requirements, governance and risk communities in NSW. The A-TRAC team The Aboriginal Health College cur- assessment procedures. continues to provide support services rently has over 400 student enrolments The AH&MRC Ethics Committee has and has done a great deal to enable the within the financial year 2012-13, in a continued to play an invaluable role in the Aboriginal community to showcase the mix of both short courses and courses promotion of high-quality health research most successful programs aimed at pro- offering full qualifications. affecting Aboriginal people in NSW by moting tobacco resistance and control. ensuring that all research is conducted Research into Aboriginal health is in an ethical manner, is consistent with steadily growing and places increasing all relevant guidelines and supports the demands on ACCHSs for participation interests of the Aboriginal community. at different levels. During 2012-13 the Assisting our Member ACCHSs to AH&MRC, through its Research Support build sustainable and effective continu- Program, worked to develop and improve

As always, the work of the AH&MRC over the past year involved supporting Member Services to deliver programs and services that focus on improving Aboriginal health in NSW ous quality improvement (CQI) systems the capacity within ACCHSs to respond These are just some of the highlights of their own is another important priority to requests for research by developing from 2012-13. The following pages of this of the AH&MRC. The ongoing objective a toolkit to assist members with Annual Report provide more detail about of these CQI activities is to strengthen decision making about their involvement our range of activities aimed at meeting capacity and quality in service delivery in research projects. The AH&MRC is the aspirations of our Member Services within the changing policy and service also called upon to support or participate as outlined in the AH&MRC’s Strategic delivery landscape. Over the past year, in research projects. As of 30 June 2013, Objectives. this was done by conducting detailed the AH&MRC was actively involved in In spite of the many challenges we assessments of needs during site visits to supporting 46 research projects. face, the AH&MRC continues to work to ACCHSs and also through the delivery of ensure that attention and energy is being workshops to support each organisation’s To strengthen the capability and directed across all sectors to improve use of the Clinical Audit Tool (CAT) for competence of the Aboriginal health health outcomes for Aboriginal people. ongoing quality improvement. workforce. We look forward to working in partner- In addition to the many workshops, During the past year, the AH&MRC was ship with our new and existing stakehold- training sessions and other events held by busy laying the foundation for the future ers to capitalise on that momentum. the AH&MRC each year, this past finan- of the Aboriginal Community Controlled cial year saw two significant conferences Health sector workforce. The annual hosted by our organisation, the 2013 Graduation Ceremony of the Aboriginal SEWB Workforce Support Unit Forum Health College was again a great success, Thank you, and the AH&MRC CQI Conference: Data and many students graduated with Cert- Sandra Bailey Driving Change – What Works for Us. ificate III, IV, Diploma and Advanced In 2012-13 the AH&MRC Public Diploma qualifications, as well as related Health Unit promoted Aboriginal health Statements of Attainment. through a number of vibrant campaigns, A major achievement by the Aborigi- conferences and activities, using innova- nal Health College – which was founded tive approaches to bring critical health by the AH&MRC in 2003 and achieved messages to Aboriginal communities. status as a Registered Training Organisa- The AH&MRC Anti-Tobacco Resis- tion in 2004 – was gaining accreditation Chief Executive Officer

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 11 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The Aboriginal Health College What We Achieved in 2012-13: We continued to place Aboriginal health education in Aboriginal hands.

12 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

What We Do: The Aboriginal Health assessment, and cultural awareness, as College is the result of a long-term well as a broad selection of short courses. vision of the AH&MRC to establish and The Aboriginal Health College’s small maintain an Aboriginal community but dedicated team have worked tire- controlled educational institution to lessly to produce consistent results and provide culturally appropriate, accredited to provide a quality service. We continue education courses in Aboriginal health. to strive for further improvement in In pursuit of this vision, the AH&MRC our efforts and to achieve all of the four Aboriginal Health Board endorsed the objectives set by the Board upon the establishment of the College in 2002, and establishment of the College. Registered Training Organisation (RTO) All of the Aboriginal Health College’s status was achieved in 2004. key work and effort clearly and distinctly Since then, the Aboriginal Health falls within the four key areas assigned by College has successfully delivered accred- the Board at the Aboriginal Health ited educational programs in several College’s inception: areas, including primary health care, sexual health, social and emotional 1. Increase the number of Aboriginal wellbeing, alcohol and other drug work, health professionals who possess management/governance, training and qualifications relevant to the needs of clients serviced by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) and by the NSW Ministry of Health. These qualifica- tions will span entry-level qualifica- tions (at Certificate III) through to university degrees and diplomas for Aboriginal health workers, nurses and allied health professionals. 2. Develop the professional skills of managers, supervisors and finance administrators working within ACCHSs. These employees have to The Aboriginal Health College respond to the new and emerging Little Bay, NSW requirements relating to business management, information manage- ment, accountability, planning, and external linkages and coordination. 3. Strengthen the governance capabili- ties of elected Aboriginal commu- nity controlled boards and govern- ing committees. There are tangible pressures on elected Aboriginal community members to respond to legislative, regulatory and contrac- tual obligations; the College aims to provide strategic leadership to their organisations; and to articulate community needs and expectations. 4. Provide professional development opportunities to non-Aboriginal health professionals working with Aboriginal clients, families and com- munities. The principal occupational categories are general practitioners, nurses and allied health professionals.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 13 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Key Activities and Accomplishments In June 2013, after an intensive few years of development and auditing, the Aboriginal Health College was granted a five-year accreditation from the Austra- lian Nursing and Midwifery Council and endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board to run the Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Division 2 course). Currently we are waiting for approval from the Australian Skills Quality Authority to add this course to its scope of registration. Since early 2013, the Aboriginal Health IV in Training and Assessment funded In 2012, the College successfully piloted College has run five Good Medicines by Health Workforce Australia (HWA). four new short courses covering Tobacco Better Health courses in association with Since January 2013 the course training has Control, Sexually Transmitted Infections NACCHO and the National Prescribing been completed in Kalgoorlie, Adelaide, and Blood Borne Infections;,Viral Hepatitis Scheme (NPS). These courses have been Brisbane, Cairns and also at the Aborigi- and Eye Health. These courses have been held in Sydney and on the South Coast of nal Health College. We are still to com- extensively monitored and evaluated for NSW at Nowra and Narooma, and Mem- mence training in Perth and Darwin. The continuous quality improvement with some ber Services were consulted as to structure take up rate for this course has been very very favourable feedback. We expect to run and location. These accredited courses encouraging and the funding body, HWA, these courses again in the future. were delivered to over 50 learners gaining has personally and professionally praised competency in working with medicines our organisation for its successful project The Aboriginal Health College continues meaning all project targets were met. management and outcomes. This project to run an Ear and Hearing health course, has helped us to build the Aboriginal delivered over 10 consecutive days for The Aboriginal Health College contin- Health College’s status and reputation as a Certificate III level qualified workers. ues its national roll-out of the Certificate quality-assured RTO.

14 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The Aboriginal Health College was suc- Health College won this tender against a Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO, cessful in its proposal to “upskill” very competitive field and it is a credit to Governor of New South Wales and several Aboriginal Health Workers in HLT43907 its status and previous project history that other honoured guests, with 200 people Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Tor- these efforts were successful. attending the ceremony. res Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice) and its new equivalent quali- In May 2013, the Aboriginal Health The Aboriginal Health College currently fication once operational. The project is College honoured 83 graduates from has over 400 student enrolments within funded by HWA. The Aboriginal Health 2011-12 Certificate III, IV, Diploma and the financial year 2012-13 in both short College will deliver the full qualifications Advanced Diploma qualifications, as well courses and courses which offer full and upgrades/conversions and oversee the as 46 students with related Statements of qualifications. This year we again reached co-ordination of delivery of in neighbour- Attainment. Graduation ceremonies were enrolment capacity for the year for Certifi- ing states and regions. The Aboriginal held in the presence of Her Excellency cate III and Certificate IV Aboriginal and

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 15 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice) courses. Enrolment for courses in Social and Emotional Well- being, Alcohol and Other Drug work, Primary Health Care (Community Care, which includes sexual health work) and also our Diploma of Counselling remain strong. We also had an excellent response and take up-rate to our Training and Assessment qualification enrolments. Interest in management courses improved from the previous year, and the Aboriginal Health College fielded many enquiries and ran two courses for the newly revamped BSB40910 Certificate IV in Business (Governance) qualification. The Aboriginal Health College maintained Staff from the Aboriginal Health College and re-affirmed its relationship with the networked effectively with affiliate RTOs in The Aboriginal Health College maintained Health Sciences faculty at the University NSW and other states through the Ab- its quality assurance and accountability of Wollongong. Articulation arrangements original and Torres Strait Islander Health processes by undertaking an internal audit, are now in place, recognising the Aborigi- Registered Training Organisation National which also assisted the College to comply nal Health College as a partner and grant- Network (ATSIHRTONN) and maintained with the NSW Department of Education ing credit to students who have studied an elected seat on the ATSIHRTONN and Communities Approved Provider List with us, leading to advanced Executive. (APL) regulatory requirements. credit arrangements and effectively offer- ing 1.5 years credit off a three-year degree. The Aboriginal Health College team pro- The Aboriginal Health College made sig- The fast-tracked Advanced Diploma vided key input into the review of national nificant improvements in processing and graduates funded by NSW Health have learning resources and the development of compliance for ABSTUDY’s Away from completed their studies and will be ready the registration process for Aboriginal pri- Base (AFB) program, which is now much for entry at the University at the end mary health workers. In addition, experts more streamlined. of July 2013. from the Aboriginal Health College also

16 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 THE ABORIGINAL HEALTH COLLEGE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Health College delivering this training to several industry partners and other organisations, both public and private. The course was well-received by all who attended.

In partnership with Aunty Lorraine Peeters, the Aboriginal Health College has also run the Marumali Healing course twice in the last year, again to an enthusi- astic reception by attendees.

Student satisfaction surveys for 2012-13 contributed to key consultations regarding The Aboriginal Health College, work- rated the Aboriginal Health College the Aboriginal primary healthcare work- ing closely with the Brien Holden Vision as “very high” on quality, relevance, force, particularly in relation to education Institute, was instrumental in developing assessment, resources and support. and training. Aboriginal Health College and having an Eye Health Skills Set added The average student satisfaction ratings staff also contributed to a report on the to the national health qualifications. ranged between 69% and 74%, and funding needs for Aboriginal RTOs and a employers who sent students to the review of alcohol and other drug courses The team at the Aboriginal Health College College for training rated their satisfaction provided in Australia. also worked closely with the Harm Reduc- as between 54% and 64%. Overall student tion and Viral Hepatitis Branch Centre for satisfaction was 72% and overall employer Representatives from the Aboriginal Population Health to revise and develop a satisfaction was 54%. Health College provided advice to the Ear Sexual Health Skills Set that has also been and Hearing Health, Good Medicines added to the national health qualifications. The Aboriginal Health College increased Better Health, and Eye Health course its student intake and the number of development and rollouts, as well as to the At a national level, we provided input to courses delivered to the Aboriginal Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) an ATSIHRTONN submission in regard Alcohol and Other Drug sector of the and Cancer Awareness projects managed to the Aboriginal Health Plan from a workforce. Staff from the College provided more broadly by the AH&MRC. vocational education perspective. We input to the planning of the National gained valuable knowledge and quality Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Terry Smith, the Aboriginal Health ideas from the national vocational Social and Emotional Wellbeing Confer- College’s Manager of Education and education learning group conference ence and also undertook a state-wide Training, contributed effectively to the and through sharing knowledge with Training Needs Analysis. The Aboriginal Industry Reference Group (IRG) and also our ATSIHRTONN network. Health College also facilitated the 12th the Subject Matter Expert Group (SMEG) Bringing Them Home Counsellors Forum, for the National Review of the Aboriginal Educators at the Aboriginal Health resuming this role after a hiatus in delivery. Health Worker qualifications, funded by College taught and assessed students in HWA and developed through wide con- a range of courses, including: Primary In June 2013, the Aboriginal Health sultation by the Community Services and Health Care, Health Organisational and College participated in the AH&MRC’s Health Industry Skills Council (CSHISC) Line Management and Governance; Continuous Quality Improvement Health Training Package review. This Counselling; Alcohol and Other Drug Conference, presenting on Frontline qualification has now been endorsed and Work; Mental Health and Social and Management courses and how CQI is was added to the national Health Training Emotional Wellbeing Work; Eye Heath; embedded into the course units. Package qualifications on 1 July 2013. The Ear and Hearing Health; and Training qualification provides a revised and more and Assessment. As a venue, the Aboriginal Health College streamlined qualification for the national hosted a range of important national, state Aboriginal Health Workforce and links Cultural Awareness education was a popu- and local meetings and collaborations to Registration. lar course in 2012-13, with the Aboriginal in 2012-13.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 17 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

(L-R) Clinton Finlay, Payden Samuelsson, James Porter (Workforce Initia- tives Project Officer, AH&MRC), Dasha Tjanara Newington, Melinda Bell (Manager, AH&MRC BDU) at Workforce Careers Day in Little Bay

Business Development Unit What We Achieved in 2012-13: We were active in strengthening the capacity of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services to deliver primary health care services to the Aboriginal clients, families and communities they serve

What We Do: The principal aim of the support to our members across a broad AH&MRC’s Business Development range of areas that strengthen service Unit is to strengthen the capacity of capacity and capabilities. our members, Aboriginal Community This has been achieved through Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs), to developing and implementing an plan, manage and deliver primary health integrated and coordinated framework care services that respond to the needs by linking these funded programs across and aspirations of the Aboriginal clients, organisational development, including families and communities they were set the following areas: workforce initiatives, up to serve. governance support, information com- In 2012-13, the AH&MRC’s Business munication technology and information Development Unit continued to deliver management, accreditation and quality high quality practical and technical improvement support.

18 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

In March 2013, the AH&MRC Accreditation team hosted an Accreditation workshop in Coffs Harbour for CEOs and staff from local ACCHSs

AH&MRC staff member Chantelle Davis and student attending the Little Bay Careers Expo

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 19 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Accreditation Our role: The AH&MRC, via its accreditation team, assists ACCHSs with accessing information, support and fund- ing required in seeking and maintaining accreditation against appropriate frameworks. The standards frameworks considered the most relevant to ACCHSs are: • Royal Australian College of General Practice (RACGP) standards; • Quality Improvement Council of Australia (QIC) standards; • Australian Council on Health Care Standards (ACHS) EQuIP5 stan- dards; and • International Organisation for Standardisation AS/NZS 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems Re- quirements (ISO). The AH&MRC’s Accreditation Team, both clinical and organisational accredi- requirements of services to ensure in conjunction with the National tation under the Establishing Quality success in their efforts so as to achieve Aboriginal Accreditation Officers Health Standards Continuation (EQHS- accreditation and maintain it through Network, advocates to the Office of C) measure, a Commonwealth initiative each accreditation cycle. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander which provides support in achieving Health (OATSIH) to support the future accreditation/certification under The Accreditation team delivered three of accreditation and capacity building in specified healthcare standards. Accreditation workshops: a state-wide the Aboriginal Community Controlled event held in Sydney in July 2012 and Health Services sector. Accreditation support was provided to two regional based workshops held in AH&MRC member ACCHSs by the Coffs Harbour (March 2013) and in Key activities and Business Development Unit’s Accredita- Dubbo (April 2013). accomplishments tion Team in the form of site visits, mock The Business Development Unit’s audits/reviews, telephone and email Of AH&MRC Member Services, 31 are Accreditation Team continued to support consultations, and one-on-one activi- clinically accredited and 14 are organisa- AH&MRC Member Services in seeking ties – all tailored to the specific needs and tional accredited as of 30 June 2013. Governance and Member Support Project

Our role: The AH&MRC Corporate Significant effort was undertaken by at Crisis”. As a result, the organisation Governance Project is an initiative across the AH&MRC in 2012-2013 to establish is working to provide coordinated sup- the Aboriginal Community Controlled a sustainable model for the provision port across AH&MRC business units to Health sector made posible through agree- of capacity-strengthening governance ensure Aboriginal Community Control is ments between the National Aboriginal support, mentoring and advice across maintained and enhanced for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisa- the Aboriginal Community Controlled people and their communities in NSW. tion (NACCHO) and its Affiliates, and Health sector in NSW. which is funded by Department of Health This sustainable model involves the Key activities and and Ageing (OATSIH). AH&MRC Business Development Unit accomplishments The AH&MRC has participated in further integrating and coordinating cur- • Compliance and Quality Regional the National Sector Governance rently funded programs into a broader Workshops (in partnership with Network and Governance Operations strategic management framework that is EQHS C Accreditation Project). Group, which are both coordinated by aligned to the needs and requirements of • Resources developed for AH&MRC NACCHO. To ensure useful information our Member Services. Member Services. is presented at these national groups, the The AH&MRC recognises the Business • Partnership with other NACCHO AH&MRC has identified the benefit of Development Unit undertakes substan- Affiliates and providers in building establishing a NSW Governance tial unfunded efforts to assist members governance capacity across Steering Group. which are “Services at Risk” or “Services our sector.

20 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Information and Communication Technology/Information Management

Our role: The AH&MRC Information purposes are interrelated and include: NSW ACCHSs is to provide a vision and and Communication Technology/Infor- • to improve the quality of clinical care; strategy for Information Management mation Management (ICT/IM) program • to evaluate interventions and pro- within NSW Community Controlled aims to increase efficiency at AH&MRC grams and generate evidence about Health Services over a five-year period member Aboriginal Community Con- what works through research; (2013 - 2017). This will assist in working trolled Health Services (ACCHSs) • for performance management and towards continuous quality improvement through improvements in technical IT accountability of health services and and harnessing the power of information operations, specifically by delivering ser- programs both by their funders and in support of better health outcomes and vices faster, more cheaply and more reliably, to the community; improved reporting to our stakeholders. thus reducing the time management staff is • for planning health programs and This IM Strategic Plan will assist required to devote to operational IT issues. services; Member Services by: • Facilitating organisational efficiency and evidence-based decision making; • Standardising and improving IM processes across the sector; • Providing the skills required for IM proficiency; • Enabling the generation of accurate and measurable information. These goals are intended to create continuous quality improvement (CQI) processes that add value to services by enabling them to harness the power of information, leading to better health outcomes and improved reporting to stakeholders. This plan includes perfor- mance measures that the sector should undertake to be successful. Importantly, the plan is also a living document that will be reviewed on an annual basis.

Regional Information Training Officers (RITOs) Over the past 12 months, three Regional • to monitor changes in population Information Technology Training Offi- Key activities and health status over time. cers (RITOs) were employed across three accomplishments The project was informed by the find- rural areas of NSW. The RITOs worked ings realised during the researching and in partnership with the AH&MRC and Information Management Strategic writing of the AH&MRC Information provided invaluable services to ACCHSs Plan for NSW ACCHSs and Communication Technology (ICT) including: Many of activities of the AH&MRC’s Strategic Plan, as well as by informa- • Assisting with national ICT/IM ini- ICT/IM program in 2012-13 were a tion discovered during the ICT audits tiatives including on the ground sup- continuation of our activities in 2011-12, of Member Services sites carried out by port with e-Health and Telehealth; when OATSIH funded the AH&MRC to the AH&MRC. These activities found a • Providing training and support for review ICT/IM practices across the NSW significant deficit in the ability of a large organisations with ICT/IM through Community Controlled Health sector number of Member Services in relation workshops, manuals and courses; and to support NSW ACCHSs to im- to Information Management skills and • Assisting organisations with accredi- prove information management systems. governance. This deficit was seen as a tation readiness; This was in response to the substantial major inhibitor to the expanded use of • Developing data extractions and and growing interest in using Aboriginal the Aboriginal health data. reports from Clinical Information health data for a range of purposes. These The aim of the IM Strategic Plan for Systems;

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 21 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

• Improving ICT/IM governance within services, including access controls, privacy and confidentiality issues, security, licensing and OH&S; • Providing technical support for hardware and software problems, including new installations and liaising with vendors for bug fixes and migration issues. Over the past year, there has been significant improvement of computer literacy and use among staff at AH&MRC member ACCHSs. This has been well observed and commented by all par- ticipating Regional CEO Forums across NSW. The training provided has included the NBN infrastructure enables better the ePractice Incentive Program, administrative, clinical, financial and access to high-quality healthcare services, almost 90% of ACCHSs have applied allied health staff. The regions have also several ACCHSs are now engaging in or are in the process of applying for benefited from financial savings, which face-to-face video consultations between their e-Health credentials. on average were approximately a 25% patients at the clinic and specialist reduction in ICT-related costs for each clinicians based elsewhere in Australia. Despite this good progress, however, service. Examples include: The advantage of video consults in- there is still a significant amount of work • Savings of up to 40% on server setup clude less need for patients to travel away to do to enable ACCHSs to capitalise on costs and improved renewal from from community (thus reducing patient e-Health initiatives, including: three to five years for one larger stress and financial burden), helping to • Credentials: Many ACCHSs still ACCHS. overcome the chronic shortage of visiting require support for application and • Registered all sites within one region remote specialists by utilising specialists installation. with Donortec, which provides from around Australia and decreased • Personally Controlled Electronic donated software and hardware costs to participating AH&MRC Member Health Record (PCEHR) Provider from companies such as Microsoft ACCHSs for travel related expenses. Registration: A significant num- and Cisco to eligible Australian The uptake of Telehealth in Australia ber of ACCHSs are yet to apply for non profit organisations. This led has been fairly slow, but it is likely there PCEHR access. to massive savings on software for will be a steady increase of AH&MRC • Conformant Systems: Many some ACCHSs – Wagga alone saved Member services that adopt this tech- ACCHSs are not yet using a system $95,000 over three years for nology. There are generous incentives with PCEHR conformance. software. available from Medicare to setup and use • Secure Messaging: Although many The funding for these RITO positions Telehealth initially, as well as ongoing services have access to an Secure was only offered as a once-off situation Patient-end (Health Service end) item Message Delivery (SMD) supplier, for a period of 12 months. Now that numbers to encourage services to utilise few messages are sent and received. the funding period has expired, this has this technology. • Electronic Medication Manage- caused considerable financial strain on ment: Further work is required to the regions to sustain these positions. The e-Health ensure that the benefits of electronic AH&MRC has submitted a Business Case There are numerous e-Health initiatives transfer of prescriptions (eTP) and to OATSIH in an endeavour to sustain now underway in Australia and ACCHSs other tools are realised in the sector. these positions. have already made considerable progress: • Assisted Registration: As a primary • The new National e-Health Record channel for consumer registra- Telehealth System, which has been rapidly tion for the PCEHR, the provision As a result of the Commonwealth Gov- taken up by many ACCHSs. of assisted registration is critical. ernment’s National Broadband Network • Thanks to the support of key initia- ACCHSs should be supported in (NBN) Enabled Telehealth Pilots Pro- tives such as the National ATSI e- rolling out the Assisted Registration gram, which aims to demonstrate how Health Project, eCollaboratives and capability across all services.

22 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Workforce Initiatives Project Officer

Our role: The Workforce Initiatives Project Officer (WIPO) supports NSW ACCHSs with a range of workforce- related activities, including promoting the sector and improving recruitment and retention strategies. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Strategic Framework (2011-2015) is the key national workforce policy underpinning this position at the Students and AH&MRC staff attend Workforce Careers Day in Redfern AH&MRC. The WIPO provided the opportunity for Aboriginal Health Worker and an Key Activities and 10 AH&MRC staff to participate in the Aboriginal Physiotherapist to attend. Accomplishments AIME Mentoring 4 Life Program. The • 25 October 2012 - Toronto High The WIPO assisted with the development mentoring program is a new national School-85 students attended the of the NSW Aboriginal Community initiative from Australian Indigenous AH&MRC booth. Controlled Health Services Aboriginal Mentoring Experience (AIME) incorpo- • 27 June 2013 - Lightening Ridge Employment Strategy (AES). This project rating mentoring opportunities for staff High School, the AH&MRC attend- was funded by the Department of across a range of business areas. This ed with Walgett Aboriginal Medical Education Employment and Workplace project is a recommendation from the Service. 55 students attended our Relations (DEEWR). An AH&MRC Proj- NSW ACCHSs AES. booth and completed evaluations. ect Officer, Kaylie Harrison, was employed The evaluations from the career days to develop and complete the project. The The WIPO attended four careers expos indicated that there is great interest from project surveyed 37 ACCHSs over eight at different locations in NSW promoting students in attending future health career months in 2012. It focused on recruitment Aboriginal health career opportunities in expo days. and retention issues in the NSW ACCHSs NSW ACCHSs to high school students, sector. The final report produced 21 including: The WIPO developed an AH&MRC recommendations that make up the • 21 August 2012 - Mt Druitt Origin video for the AIME National Hoodie Day NSW ACCHSs AES. The AES will be imple- Legends Careers Day. video competition to showcase stories of mented over three years. The report Be The • 31 August 2012 - Department of Aboriginal success. The video focused Change That Makes The Difference gathers Aboriginal Affairs Careers Day at on the work of AH&MRC staff. The the results and recommendations from Little Bay. The WIPO organised for AH&MRC video won fourth prize in the the project. an Aboriginal Medical Student, an AIME competition and was showcased on YouTube for 24 hours as a result.

The WIPO, in collaboration with the services mentioned below, developed a six-week voluntary placement program for two third-year, medical students from Geneva University. The students spent one week at the AH&MRC, one week at Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Ser- vice, three weeks at Orange Aboriginal Medical Service and one week at Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service.

The WIPO continued to provide inform- ation to the NSW ACCHSs regarding national registration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 23 ETHICS COMMITTEE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The AH&MRC Ethics Committee What We Achieved in 2012-13: We continued to assess research proposals affecting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people and communities in NSW, and to moni- tor the collection of data on Aboriginal health to ensure these activities were conducted in an ethical manner.

What We Do: The AH&MRC Ethics The Committee currently has 10 mem- Committee reviews research proposals bers, of whom eight are Aboriginal. Seven affecting the health of Aboriginal people of the members live outside of Sydney. across a broad range of fields, gives A majority of the positions on the Com- ethical approval for the conduct of such mittee (seven members) are designated for research in NSW and provides advice representatives of Aboriginal Community to researchers on the ethical conduct Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs), of health research affecting Aboriginal including three members of the AH&MRC people. The Committee has operated Board of Directors. The other positions on since 1996. It is an official Human Re- the Committee are designated to be held by search Ethics Committee (HREC) under at least one person from each of the follow- the Commonwealth National Health and ing groups: Aboriginal Elder, lay person, Medical Research Council (NHMRC) medical researcher, medical practitioner/ legislation. clinician and lawyer.

24 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 ETHICS COMMITTEE Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

AH&MRC Ethics Committee (EC) and staff members -Back Row (l-r): Sandra Bailey (CEO, AH&MRC), Joyce Williams (EC), Daniel Kelly (Deputy Chair EC), Shireen Malamoo (EC), Victoria Jones (Senior Project Officer, EC), Rochelle Patten (EC), Aideen McGarrigle (EC).Front row (l-r): Val Keed (Chair, EC), Rebecca Hancock (Executive Officer EC). Absent EC members: Ray Dennison, Daniel Jeffries, Ngiare Brown, Jennifer Reath.

The AH&MRC Ethics Committee considered 69 applications seeking approval for new research in a very diverse range of fields, including chronic disease, mental health and prisoner populations

The Committee is supported in its Ethics Committee and the AH&MRC and ethics and data linkage. The Train- work by an External Reference Panel Research Unit, and working together ing Day also featured presentations made up of specialist experts from a to develop research workshops for from the AH&MRC CEO, the the NSW diverse range of health and medical ACCHSs, communities and researchers. Ministry of Health’s Office of Health fields, as well as a Secretariat consisting and Medical Research Principal Policy of two part-time staff. A Training Day for the Ethics Commit- Officer, a Senior Research Fellow with The Ethics Committee continued to tee was held in June 2013. Topics in- the George Institute for Global operate very effectively and efficiently cluded: Aboriginal Community Control Health and senior researchers with during 2012-13 and maintained its com- of research, governance and legal the Population Health Research mitment to make ongoing improvements. considerations for ethics committees, Network. Current priorities include continuing to promote the role of the Committee, reviewing activities and processes to meet the growing demand for ethical review of 2012-13 Ethics Committee Applications Aboriginal health-related research, and participating in national initiatives to The Ethics Committee received 69 new applications for review in enhance ethical review of research. 2012-13. In addition, it considered many requests for approval to amend or extend projects previously approved, as well for the review Key activities and of reports, conference papers, presentations and journal articles accomplishments arising from this research. As advised by the NHMRC, the AH&MRC Ethics Committee continued Applications covered many different fields, including: to meet the requirements of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human • antenatal care • hepatitis Research, 2007. • cancer outcomes • immunisation • cardiovascular risk • maternal health Meetings of the Ethics Committee are • child and family health • men’s health held bi-monthly and six meetings • chronic disease • mental health were held during 2012-13. Committee • community and family resilience • obstetrics members also undertook substantial • coronary disease • oral health work out-of-session in the consideration • drug and alcohol issues • prisoner health and approval of applications. • education and training • psychosis and offending • ear health • renal disease The Ethics Committee Secretariat • exercise and sport • road safety continued to work with the AH&MRC • eye health • sexual health Research Unit to ensure Aboriginal • foot health • smoking cessation programs community control of research projects • GP and other health • social and emotional wellbeing affecting Aboriginal people. This includes services delivery • women’s health establishing processes so that research- • health promotion ers are aware of the distinct roles of the

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 25 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Public Health

What We Achieved in 2012-13: We continued to assist Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services to deliver a range of health programs and services that are effective, sustainable and reflect local Aboriginal community needs.

26 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

What We Do: The AH&MRC Public Health Team works closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services to develop and deliver public health programs that improve the health of Aboriginal people in NSW. In 2012-2013, AH&MRC public health programs were delivered in the following topic areas: • Blood borne viruses and harm minimisation • Cancer • Child and maternal health • Chronic disease • Continuous quality improvement • Drug and alcohol • Mental health • Sexual and reproductive health • Tobacco resistance and control In addition to delivering specific public health programs, in 2012-13 members of the AH&MRC Public Health Team con- tinued to provide advice and input into a broad range of public health activities, and to work with both government and non-government organisations to inform national and NSW policy development. Aboriginal public health education and training was also supported at the AH&MRC through the provision of training placements.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 27 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Blood Borne Virus program

Our role: The Hepatitis C Project and the Harm Minimisation Project fall within the AH&MRC’s Blood Borne Virus (BBV) program. The Hepatitis C Project aims to support ACCHSs to deliver effective hepatitis C prevention, treatment and management programs. The project particularly focuses on prevention among young Aboriginal people. The Harm Minimisation project aims to support ACCHSs to strengthen and manage harm minimisation strategies, and increase access to services for Aboriginal people who inject drugs.

28 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Key activities and accomplishments in 2012-13 At the October 2012 AH&MRC Annual General Meeting, the AH&MRC launched the Harm Minimisation Position Paper. The paper outlines AH&MRC’s support for harm minimisation, and harm reduction in particular, as an ef- fective method of providing health and other services for Aboriginal people who inject drugs. The paper is available on the AH&MRC website at www.ahmrc.org.au.

The AH&MRC presented on the Where’s the Shame, Love Your Liver campaign and the Your Mob My Mob Our Mob peer edu- cation project at the 8th Australasian Viral Hepatitis Conference held in Auckland, New Zealand on 10-12 September 2012.

The AH&MRC has continued to imple- Aboriginal hip hop band The Last as part of our commitment to Hepatitis ment the Your Mob, My Mob, Our Mob Kinection. The evaluation found that the Awareness Week (25-30 July 2012). The Hepatitis C Peer Education project. This campaign met all of its objectives. More AH&MRC also coordinated and par- project includes working in partnership than 600 people attended the community ticipated in a number of events over with Hepatitis NSW to deliver training to events, 36 hepatitis-related songs were the course of the week. young Aboriginal people to become hep produced and 13 community developed C peer educators. The project has been posters were created for distribution The AH&MRC piloted the Staying Strong: delivered in two juvenile detention centres throughout NSW. These resources can Act Connect Survive campaign in two and one community setting in NSW, with all be found on the campaign website NSW communities. This campaign aims several more settings identified for 2013- www.loveyourliver.net.au. The evalua- to build young Aboriginal people’s 14. Resources developed by the partici- tion of the campaign can be found on the resilience around drug and alcohol, and pants have been produced and distributed AH&MRC website at www.ahmrc.org.au. to raise awareness of blood borne to AH&MRC Member Services. viruses. The project is being delivered in The AH&MRC distributed a range of partnership with the Aboriginal hip hop The AH&MRC evaluated the campaign- resources, including those developed band, The Last Kinection. Please view Where’s the Shame, Love Your Liver, con- from the Where’s the Shame, Love Your www.stayingstrong.com.au to watch ducted in partnership with the Liver campaign, to all Member Services the campaign’s progress.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 29 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Cancer

Our role: The Aboriginal Cancer Part- nership Project represents a collabora- tion between the AH&MRC, the Cancer Institute NSW and Cancer Council NSW, and is funded by the NSW Ministry of Health. The overall aim of the Project is to enhance cancer care for Aboriginal people in NSW by building Aboriginal cancer control capacity and increasing the knowledge of health professionals across the spectrum of cancer control. Key activities and accomplishments in 2012-13 As part of the AH&MRC Cancer Partnership Project, we conducted an analysis into the training needs of Ab- original and non-Aboriginal health work- ers who work with Aboriginal people along the spectrum of cancer control. This foundational piece of work was done provided to this group through the the Palliative Approach (PEPA), cancer to better understand the roles played by Community Action Email Network. An services and the regional office of Cancer ACCHSs and cancer services at Local evaluation of the training found that it Council NSW. The two-day workshop Health Districts in providing cancer had helped develop participants’ practi- was attended by 19 participants and pro- care to Aboriginal people and to identify cal skills and provided strategies to create vided an opportunity for sharing ideas professional development requirements positive change, including skills in cam- and developing solutions to address the to enable staff to carry out their roles paign strategy, networking, working with barriers to cancer care facing Aboriginal appropriately and effectively. A total of 53 the media and speaking with politicians. communities across NSW. interviews across NSW were completed. Evaluation results were presented at the 11th Behavioural Research in Cancer The AH&MRC Cancer Partnership The AH&MRC and Cancer Council Control Conference in Adelaide in Project’s activities integrate with the NSW delivered two advocacy (com- May 2013. Aboriginal Cancer Partnerships Grants munity action) training workshops for Program led by Cancer Institute NSW. Aboriginal community members and The AH&MRC Cancer Partnership This program provides support to a health workers in November 2012 and Project delivered the first in a series of number ACCHSs to deliver a variety of March 2013, with a total of 36 Aboriginal local cancer awareness workshops in projects aiming to improve the quality of people completing the training. Ongo- Orange. Involved stakeholders included care for Aboriginal people with cancer ing support and information is being ACCHSs, Program of Experience in and their families. Child and Maternal Health

Our role: The AH&MRC Child and Maternal Health program supports the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of Aboriginal child and maternal health programs. The program strives to build service capacity at ACCHSs and enhance coordination and linkages between all sectors focused on Aboriginal child and maternal health, and is funded by the NSW Ministry of Health. Key activities and accomplishments in 2012-13 Funding for the AH&MRC Child and Maternal Health Program was received in March 2013 and recruitment is currently in progress.

30 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Over the past year, the AH&MRC Chronic Disease program started work- ing with ACCHSs to develop a number of Aboriginal-specific resources for manag- ing chronic diseases, including a poster, an Aboriginal Health Worker booklet and visual aids designed to help patients better understand their illnesses. The overall aim of the resources is to increase awareness of managing chronic disease, both for health professionals and patients. The resources will be dissemi- nated to ACCHSs later in the year.

The Site Exchange Program continues to facilitate site exchanges between staff from member ACCHSs, providing par- and maximising Medicare. A total of 39 ticipants with opportunities for network- Chronic Disease ACCHS staff have participated in this ing and information sharing. In 2012-13, activity to date, and those who participate five site exchanges were organised and Our role: The AH&MRC Chronic can be allocated Continuing Professional completed. Eight ACCHSs were involved Disease program aims to build capacity Development (CPD) hours through the in the program, with 17 ACCHS staff of NSW ACCHSs in the prevention and Royal College of Nursing Australia. involved, either as hosts or participants. management of chronic disease, and to Many of these site exchanges focused on build and maintain relationships with From November 2012, the AH&MRC adult and child health checks and clinical stakeholders involved in chronic disease. Chronic Disease program worked closely support, but the program also extended This program is funded by the NSW with the Australian College of Nursing to include supporting participants to Ministry of Health. (ACN) to create an educational program implement programs, start up new ser- for staff working in the chronic disease vices and achieve accreditation. Key activities and field within Aboriginal communities in accomplishments in 2012-13 NSW. Delivered in February and March AH&MRC representatives attended sev- In September 2012, funding was made 2013, workshops included six hours of eral NSW Ministry of Health committees available to support course fees and chronic wound care training and three and groups relating to chronic disease, travel costs for frontline staff employed hours of infection prevention and control including the Care Navigation Support in ACCHSs to complete the Certificate training across four locations in NSW: Program Steering Committee and NSW III Business Administration (Medical) Wagga Wagga, Walgett, Ballina and New- Knockout Challenge Advisory Group. delivered by The University of New castle. This was the first time CPD hours The AH&MRC is working in partnership England (UNE) Partnerships. This training have been attached to regional training with the Agency for Clinical Innovation provided ACCHS staff with increased skills workshops, and the evaluation indicated to re-establish the Aboriginal Partner- and knowledge of administration, leading that it was an attractive feature for attendees. ship Sub-Committee on Chronic Disease to improved practice for chronic disease Prevention and Management to guide prevention and management. In total, nine In April 2013, the AH&MRC received chronic disease programs and activities ACCHS staff graduated from the course. funding from the Centre for Population at the state level. Planned work for this Health to implement small grants across a group includes the development of a A new activity called “Yarning About…” number of ACCHSs to increase awareness strategic framework to support integra- commenced in October 2012 and offers a of the Aboriginal Get Healthy Information tion and coordination of chronic disease telephone-based, tailored chronic disease and Coaching Service® in Aboriginal com- prevention and management activities for training opportunity to NSW ACCHSs. munities in NSW. Funding was provided to Aboriginal communities across NSW. Topics or specialist areas for discus- 24 community organisations across NSW sion are sought from staff employed by to promote the service in 53 Aboriginal Initial planning has commenced for ACCHSs through the AH&MRC Chronic communities. In the first months of finan- the overall evaluation of the AH&MRC Disease Email Network. To date, sessions cial year 2013-14, the Chronic Disease team Chronic Disease program, and we look on the following health topics have been will be visiting ACCHSs to document the forward to sharing our key experiences delivered: lung disease, diabetes, speech great initiatives that they have been able to and lessons learned from the program in pathology, motivating clients, heart failure deliver from this funding. the near future.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 31 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Sexual Health and Sexual Reproductive Health

Our role: The AH&MRC Sexual Health original Sexual and Reproductive Health from young Aboriginal people at Yabun project aims to support member ser- Workers in AH&MRC Member Services (survival day) and the Aboriginal Rugby vices to develop and implement effective by coordinating a network, developing League Knockout tournament. The three- sexual health programs by developing and distributing resources, and repre- year study, conducted in partnership with and distributing resources, providing senting our services at a state level. the Kirby Institute and National training opportunities and representing Aboriginal Community Controlled ACCHSs and Aboriginal people at a state Key activities and Health Organisation (NACCHO) affili- level. The Sexual Health Project Officer accomplishments in 2012-13 ates, aims to research young Aboriginal works closely with a number of During the reporting period, the people’s sexual health knowledge, non-government agencies, and the AH&MRC coordinated the final data col- attitudes and behaviours. Aboriginal STI HIV Hepatitis Workers lection for the national research project Network. The Sexual and Reproductive “Sexual health and relationships in young The AH&MRC distributed 20,000 con- Health Project aims to support the Ab- Indigenous people”. Data was collected doms to Member Services as part of the

32 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

AH&MRC’s Enjoy Your Freedom, Use Drug and Condoms campaign for NAIDOC Week, World AIDS Day (Dec 1) and for other Alcohol events. Other resources distributed included Enjoy Your Freedom, Use Our role: The AH&MRC provides pro- Condoms posters and sexually transmit- gram support around alcohol and other ted infection (STI) testing announce- drugs (AOD) through the Aboriginal ments on Koori Radio. Drug and Alcohol Network (ADAN) and the Social and Emotional Wellbeing The AH&MRC continues to Chair the Workforce Support Unit. Aboriginal STI, HIV and Hepatitis Ad- ADAN was established in May 2003 visory Committee (ASHHAC), a multi- to help progress some of the key recom- disciplinary committee that advises the mendations of the draft NSW Aboriginal The ADAN Aboriginal Residential Reha- NSW Ministry of Health on sexual health and Torres Strait Islander Substance Misuse bilitation Forum was held on 9 Novem- and blood borne virus policy, project and Plan. ADAN is made up of Aborigi- ber 2012. The Forum which was attended program development for Aboriginal nal Drug and Alcohol Workers from by senior staff from Aboriginal residen- people in NSW. ACCHSs, Local Health Districts and tial rehabilitation centres and focused on non-government organisations (NGOs) networking and providing specific infor- The second phase of the It’s Your from across NSW. mation for these specialist services. A key Choice Have a Voice: Rights, Respect focus was to produce recommendations and Responsibility campaign was rolled Key activities and aimed at capacity building and advocacy. out to nine communities, and included accomplishments in 2012-13 The report from the forum can be found two Deadly Days events and one leader- The ADAN Leadership Group (ADAN on the AH&MRC website. ship camp, held at Port Macquarie, NSW. LG) continued to meet quarterly in The campaign aims to empower young 2012-13 to provide advice to the NSW In March and April 2013, tender Aboriginal people to make informed Ministry of Health, the Office for writing workshops were held for those choices about sexual and reproductive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander AH&MRC Member Services with es- health, as well as related alcohol and Health (OATSIH) and other agencies tablished AOD programs. This training other drug (AOD) issues. The AH&MRC about policies, resources and programs was a recommendation of the Aboriginal provided pre-campaign workshops for affecting Aboriginal communities across Residential Rehabilitation Forum held in local workers, supported campaign NSW. Membership of the ADAN LG is November 2012. Several services that sent implementation and moderated made up of representatives from each representatives to attend the training are social media over the reporting period. AH&MRC regional area, as well as a making submission with the support of the youth representative, all of whom are trainer. The AH&MRC coordinated and facili- elected at ADAN symposiums for periods tated a network meeting for Aboriginal of up to two years. Two Indigenous Risk Impact Screening Sexual and Reproductive Health Work- (IRIS) Tool Training Workshops were ers to discuss program develpment, The 2nd ADAN Managers Forum was held in May 2013 (in Kempsey on the resources and professional development held on the 8 November 2012 at the 21-22 May and Sydney on 28-29 May). opportunities. AH&MRC’s Aboriginal Health College in 27 Aboriginal AOD workers (from Little Bay, NSW. This biannual forum was ACCHSs, Local Health Districts and The Sexual Health Project Officer pre- established to provide managers a greater other NGO organisations) attended the sented at the 13th International Union understanding of the role of Aboriginal workshops, where ADAN Leadership Against STIs Conference, held in Mel- Drug and Alcohol Workers, as well as to Group members provided the training. bourne in October in 2012. The Project discuss relevant policies at a state-wide Officer presented with workers from level. The 2012 Forum was attended by 39 The AH&MRC has recently re-focused AMS Western Sydney and Bulgarr Ngaru, managers and aimed to highlight exam- its efforts on finding strategies to im- and the presentation won an award for ples of effective collaboration within the prove support to Aboriginal residential the best presentation in its category. Aboriginal drug and alcohol field, as well rehabilitation services by establishing as between sectors. Associate Professor an Aboriginal residential rehabilitation The AH&MRC continues to work Ted Wilkes and Professor Dennis Gray services network, participating in a NSW closely with Family Planning NSW from the National Indigenous Drug and Ministry of Health-led forum around and the Kirby Institute to develop the Alcohol Council were keynote speakers. Aboriginal residential rehabilitation evaluation strategies for state-wide A report on the forum, including recom- services and seeking funding to employ Sexual and Reproductive Health mendations, is available on the AH&MRC a project officer to support Aboriginal programs. website at www.ahmrc.org.au. residential rehabilitation services.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 33 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Social and Emotional Wellbeing

Our role: The Social and Emotional Wellbeing Unit at the AH&MRC aims to support ACCHSs to deliver effective Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) and mental health programs, facilitate access to training and professional devel- opment of the SEWB workforce, and to inform state and federal government of the key SEWB and mental health issues The 2012-13 AH&MRC SEWB Team (l-r): Glenn Williams (State Mental Health Coordinator), Lucy Abbott that affect Aboriginal communities and (Manager SEWB WSU), Sofia Lema (Senior Project Officer), Alana Rossmann (Project Officer) the workforce supporting them. The SEWB unit consists of the Social NSW, except for the Illawarra and far tural best practice, to create networking and Emotional Wellbeing Workforce south coast regions, which are covered by and referral pathways and to promote Support Unit (SEWB WSU) and the State the WSU at the South Coast Medical Ser- professional development and support Mental Health Coordinator. vice Aboriginal Corporation (SCMSAC). to the SEWB workforce. The Forum was The SEWB WSU was established by organised in partnership with SCMSAC the AH&MRC in October 2012. Funded Key activities and and held alongside the NSW Aboriginal by the Department of Health and Ageing, accomplishments in 2012-13 Mental Health Workers Forum. More the SEWB WSU coordinates professional In March 2013, the AH&MRCs SEWB than 200 people attended. support and training to all SEWB staff WSU was launched at the first state-wide funded by OATSIH. This includes Bring- SEWB WSU Forum in Wagga Wagga. The SEWB WSU is establishing regional ing Them Home, SEWB, mental health, The WSU Forum was planned and forums across NSW and has held forums substance use and Link-Up workers in designed to enhance clinical and cul- in Griffith and Dubbo this financial year.

34 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Attendees at the first state-wide SEWB WSU Forum in Wagga Wagga in March 2013

Regional forums are held over two days The State Mental Health Coordinator the review and development of policies — the first day for networking, sharing continued to provide expert clinical relating to Aboriginal mental health. best practice and information from advice and to represent the AH&MRC on local providers; the second day is a a range of committees and working groups. State Mental Health Coordinator Glenn Narrative Therapy workshop delivered Through this role, the AH&MRC has had Williams resigned his position in finan- by the Indigenous Program team at the input to the development of the Aborigi- cial year 2012-13 to establish his own Bouverie Centre. nal Grief and Loss Training package, the private practice. The AH&MRC would allocation of Aboriginal-specific places on like to acknowledge the significant con- A key activity for the SEWB WSU is the Housing and Accommodation Support tribution that Glenn made to Aboriginal to carry out a Training Needs Analysis Initiative (HASI), the provision of training mental health and SEWB during the five (TNA) questionnaire to identify training to the NSW Police Force, and feedback on years he was in this role. and professional development needs. The WSU has been working with the Aboriginal Health College to do this and so far has collected over 70 TNAs.

In October 2012, the AH&MRC supported ACCHSs to undertake activities for Social and Emo- tional Wellbeing Week during Mental Health Month. The theme was “Taking Time to Yarn, Taking Time to Connect”. Activities included an art competition, community service announcements, and the production and distribution of Aboriginal-specific resources. A total of 42 entries for the art competition were received from young people age 8-16, and 26 ACCHSs participated in activities. PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Tobacco Resistance and Control

Our role: The AH&MRC Tobacco Resis- tance and Control (A-TRAC) program has a broad goal of reducing tobacco use among Aboriginal people by integrating tobacco control and smoking cessation activities into the ACCHSs model of comprehensive primary health care. Key activities and accomplishments in 2012-13 The A-TRAC Advisory Group (AAG) continues to strengthen communication and provide insight into the needs of ACCHSs around tobacco resistance and control activities. The AAG is also the The Kick the Habit project, social market- been developed, and the revised reference group for the upcoming ing campaigns by ACCHSs, was pre- version of the ATRT including this A-TRAC symposium in late 2013. sented at the Population Health Congress module is scheduled to be reprinted and featured in the Public Health Associa- in August 2013. Planning commenced for the third tion Newsletter in March 2013. A-TRAC Symposium 2013: Our Com- The A-TRAC team encouraged munity, Your Journey. This symposium The Aboriginal Tobacco Resistance Toolkit everybody to take action on World aims to bring together ACCHS staff (ATRT) was completed. This toolkit was No Tobacco Day, asking community interested in discussing a broad range of developed to meet an identified need members to pledge to support someone initiatives to encourage the integration of from workers new to health and Ab- they knew to go smoke free, or smokers tobacco control activities into the ACCHS original tobacco control, and contains to “Have a Go, and Say No.” A total of model. useful tools and templates that ACCHSs 129 pledges were made and 38 resource can adapt and use. Modules for the first packs containing wrist bands, posters, The A-TRAC Email Network continues version of the ATRT included: “Getting magnets and stickers were distributed to to provide a mechanism for the distribu- Started”, “Workplace Smoking Policy” ACCHSs across NSW. tion of updated information on tobacco and “Getting to Know Your Community”. resistance and control to ACCHS staff Since October 2012, over 70 hard cop- The AH&MRC is represented on a range and successful quitting stories from ies have been disseminated, with 1029 of tobacco control-related committees ACCHS programs. The membership is downloads from the AH&MRC website. and advisory groups, both nationally and currently over 340 members. A new “Social Marketing” module has in NSW, including NACCHO’s Tackling

Attendees of the 2012 A-Trac Symposium.

36 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Smoking Advisory Committee and the Cancer Council’s Smoke-free Prisons Working Group.

The AH&MRC is working in partner- ship with the NSW Ministry of Health to support and co-chair the Aboriginal Partnership Sub-Committee on Tobacco Resistance and Control, with the aim of guiding and coordinating tobacco control programs and activities at the state level. A strategic framework is currently being developed by the sub-committee.

An overall evaluation has commenced for the A-TRAC program and results of the key lessons learned will be shared in the next financial year.

The AH&MRC continues to work with the Cancer Institute NSW and NSW Quitline to develop, implement and evaluate a culturally appropriate and accessible Quitline service in NSW/ACT for Aboriginal people who smoke.

This financial year, a program of one-day site visits to Quitline NSW/ACT was developed and implemented for health professionals, which includes listening to counsellors on calls and receiving tips on motivational interviewing. Since the site visit program started in November 2012, 21 ACCHS workers and 12 students from the Aboriginal Health College have par- ticipated. The AH&MRC also coordinat- ed the adaptation of the Quitline logo for Aboriginal communities in NSW. A-Trac Symposium mascot Staff from the AH&MRC, Quitline Deadly Dan and friends. NSW/ACT and the Cancer Institute NSW attended the Yabun festival in January 2013, where resources and smokerlysers were used to engage community mem- bers about going smoke free. A total of 53 referrals to Quitline were completed and feedback from community was positive.

Several ACCHS site visits included updates about the Quitline telephone service, and ACCHS staff were given the opportunity to ask questions about the service. Community events were also attended by the AH&MRC and Quitline NSW/ACT counsellors.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 37 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

The inaugral AH&MRC CQI conference captures some of the many NSW ACCHS success stories in CQI and data manage- ment as a way of facilitating shared learn- ing for other ACCHSs.

Delivered 10 regional workshops covering a wide range of CQI topics. These included: • Preventive Health and CQI work- shops organised in partnership with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). A total of three workshops with 17 delegates representing nine ACCHSs took place. • Practice Managers workshops in partnership with Rural Doctors Continuous Quality Network (RDN). AH&MRC CQI program staff presented at three Improvement workshops with 15 delegates partici- pating. Our role: The AH&MRC Continuous Delivered two workshops to support • ADAN Managers Forum. The staff Quality Improvement (CQI) program members’ use of the Clinical Audit Tool presented at one workshop. is responsible for developing a range of (PenCAT) for quality improvement pur- • ADAN Tender Writing and CQI activities, networks, tools and resources poses. Combined with the three previ- workshop. The program sponsored to support and build capacity of member ous workshops, a total of 44 participants one workshop with seven delegates ACCHSs in using data and evidence for from 20 ACCHSs attended. 100% of from four ACCHSs participating. quality improvement. The AH&MRC participants who completed the evalua- • Two PenCAT workshops described CQI program is funded by the NSW tion survey agreed or strongly agreed that above. Ministry of Health. the workshop content was relevant and that the delivery by AH&MRC facilita- Worked with the Aboriginal Health Key activities and tors was effective. All 20 participating College to develop a tailored CQI accomplishments in 2012-13 ACCHSs completed action plans to use modular training program that can This year’s achievements include the the PenCAT tool with their PIMS system be cross-credited against different establishment of the AH&MRC CQI to improve data quality, and changes qualifications that are recognised within program, which has specific aims to: to systems and practices following the the Australian Qualifications Framework. workshops have occurred. A desktop gap analysis of current training • Build ACCHSs infrastructure, skills, has been completed and development of good practice and effective systems Provided individual PIMS support to 22 a modular program is in progress. for data collection, management ACCHSs, including phone support, email and use. and/or site-visits. This support is pro- Designed and administered a scholar- • Support ACCHSs to build sustain- vided as requested by ACCHSs. ship program to support NSW ACCHSs able and effective continuous quality and AH&MRC staff in CQI training and improvement systems with a focus Conducted on-site staff development professional development. Two rounds of on chronic disease prevention/ workshops for Data Management and scholarships were conducted. Nine appli- management. CQI with four ACCHSs. The on-site cations were received and three scholar- • Document, promote and share mod- workshops were tailored to each ships awarded. els of good practice in data manage- organisation’s training requests and were ment and clinical quality inclusive of PIMS training. Reviewed current literature and collected improvement in an Aboriginal AH&MRC Member Services’ views about primary health care context. Convened a Reference Group, including indicator frameworks and best practice representatives from ACCHSs, to review data protocols for use by NSW ACCHSs By identifying the infrastructure and train- tools and resources useful for ACCHSs in data management and quality ing needs of member ACCHSs in 2011/12, in their CQI work. Part of this work saw improvement. A Data Workshop for CQI staff were able to develop several the design and production of a DVD members was held in February 2013, locally focused and responsive activities. and booklet titled 10 Out of 10 Deadly with 18 delegates from 14 Member During the 2012-13 year, our staff: ACCHS CQI Success Stories. The resource Services attending. A further 14 services

38 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales signalled interest in attending the work- Dr Jenny Hunt, AH&MRC shop during the Expression of Interest Public Health Medical Officer process but were unable to attend on the day. A final report of the workshop was completed and circulated to participants.

Developed, documented and promoted CQI models appropriate for use by NSW ACCHSs by: • Delivering a series of Rapid Change Projects with seven ACCHSs, cover- ing three topic-based work streams: Maximising Medicare, Increasing Health Checks and Sexual Health Screening and Prevention. • Supporting two ACCHSs to par- ticipate in the eCollaborative – 21st Public Health Medical Officer Century Patient Care and Self Man- agement wave, including participa- About the role: The AH&MRC Committee and the Aboriginal and tion in two national “face-to-face” Public Health Medical Officer (PHMO) Torres Strait Islander Demographic workshops, three virtual workshops provides technical advice and support Statistics Expert Advisory Group; and two on-site visits. to member ACCHSs, AH&MRC staff • Continued to co-chair the • Establishing an Eye Health Project and partner organisations about a broad Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with the Brien Holden Vision Insti- range of public health, medical and Working Group and participated tute to develop CQI resources for research issues. In addition to supporting on the Executive Advisory Group use by ACCHSs. a broad range of AH&MRC programs, to develop national evidence-based • Presenting the “AH&MRC CQI the PHMO has: antenatal care guidelines. The first Approach” information session at • Represented AH&MRC on a range module of guidelines was published the Rural Doctors Network Staff of committees and advisory groups; in early 2013 and the second module Development Workshop. • Continued to serve on the Board is nearing completion; • Continuing to build on current of Directors of the Rural Doctors • Participated in the national partnerships with the Kirby Institute Network of NSW; network and meetings of Affiliate and the George Institute. • Represented NACCHO on the Na- and NACCHO Public Health • Delivering PenCAT workshops to tional Maternal Mortality Advisory Medical Officers. Brien Holden Vision Institute staff and Aboriginal Health College students. AH&MRC GP Forum

The AH&MRC CQI team coordinated a and Clinical Update conference focusing on health data and CQI for NSW ACCHSs, titled Data Our role: During the 2012-2013 year, Topics in 2012 included: blood borne Driving Change: What Works for Us. two annual AH&MRC GP Forum and viruses, patient controlled electronic The inaugural conference brought Clinical Updates were held – in August health records cardiovascular disease, together over 100 delegates from 2012 and in May/June 2013, with support cannabis and prescription medicine AH&MRC Member Services, NACCHO on each occasion provided by the NSW misuse, mental health and community Affiliates and representatives, educa- Rural Doctors Network. These events nutrition and physical activity pro- tion and research institutes, government were attended by: grams. In 2013, topics included: chronic organisations, non-government organ- • 2012: 41 GPs and GP Registrars lung disease, opioid dependency, mental isations and those from other sectors, as from 17 different ACCHSs health, using data, child protection, can- well as two international guest speakers. • 2013: 29 GPs and GP Registrars cer and oral health. Evaluations of the three plenary ses- from 16 different ACCHSs Both formal and informal evalutions sions were all very positive: 90% of the As with previous years, the GP Forum were positive, with many attendees com- respondents stated that sessions were program included a mix of clinical menting that all sessions were useful and either highly useful or useful. The four updates and workshop sessions, as well that the forum provided an excellent concurrent sessions were similarly rated as opportunities for ACCHS GPs to net- opportunity to network and share positively, with 80-90% rating sessions as work to share information, experiences experiences with other ACCHS GPs excellent or good. and ideas. and GP Registrars.

AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 39 PUBLIC HEALTH Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

• Development of Aboriginal Health Research Workers Oral Health training • Enhanced Reporting of Aboriginal- Support and ity in Administrative Datasets • GHS Aboriginal strategy: The Get Capacity Healthy Service, Aboriginal strategy, a social network analysis Building • Health Tracker (TORPEDO) • Increasing Completeness of Aborigi- Our role: The AH&MRC provides nal Status in the New South Wales support and advice to member ACCHSs One of the main activities for the Notifiable Conditions Information about research, as well as to researchers Research Support and Capacity Build- Management System by Data Linkage who are interested and active in Aboriginal ing Program this year continues to be • Indigenous Health Outcomes Patient health research in NSW and nationally. responding to requests for advice and Evaluation (IHOPE) In 2012-2013, the AH&MRC contin- support from researchers, particularly • Kanyini Vascular Collaboration ued efforts to provide support for high for state-wide projects using data linkage • Models of Vision Care Delivery for quality Aboriginal health research in methodologies, the NSW components Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander NSW through a Research Support and of national projects or projects involving Communities (Vision CRC) Capacity Building Program. A National multiple ACCHS sites. • Mothers Who Die: National Popula- Health and Medical Research Council As at June 2013, the AH&MRC is ac- tion Study of Mothers Dying Late (NHMRC) Capacity Building Grant has tively involved in supporting 40 research in Pregnancy and in the First Year supported this work since 2010, enabling projects, with a further 13 proposed After Birth the establishment of a register and the projects under consideration. The sup- • Notifiable Diseases and Obstetric development of protocols and processes port provided can include participation Outcomes; Sub-Study Aboriginal to monitor, support and report on the in- on the investigator team or through Women volvement of the AH&MRC in research. AH&MRC representation on a range of • Study of Environment and Since the expiration of this grant in April advisory and reference groups that have Aboriginal Resilience on Child 2012, this key function has been contin- been established for each project, as well Health (SEARCH) ued as a core AH&MRC program. as through the provision of informal • Research Excellence in Aboriginal advice and support in the development Community Controlled Health Key activities and phase and subsequently. (REACCH) accomplishments in 2012-13 • Road Safety and Aboriginal People The AH&MRC continues to work on a Some of the research projects and • Social and Cultural Resilience project to develop a tool to assist ACCHSs programs of research where AH&MRC of Aboriginal Mothers in Prison with decision making about their involve- has been providing support during (SCREAM) ment in research. This project was devel- 2012-2013 include: • Talking About the Smokes (TATS) oped in response to member ACCHSs’ • Aboriginal Patterns of Cancer Care • Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait requests for support in this area. Interviews (APOCC) Islander National Health Survey were conducted with member ACCHSs in • Aboriginal Smoking and Health (ASH) (GOANNA) 2011-2012 about their views and experienc- es of research, and this information is being used to develop a draft tool. An Advisory Public Health Group with membership from member ACCHSs is supporting the project, and it is Education and Training expected to be completed in late 2013. The Research Support Program has Our role: The AH&MRC offers training commenced running a series of re- placements to trainees in the Australasian search seminars for AH&MRC staff with Faculty of Public Health Medicine training presentations from visiting researchers. program and has previously hosted NSW The aim of the seminars is to provide Public Health Officer trainees. Throughout tailored information sessions on Aborigi- 2012-2013, two Public Health Medical Reg- nal health research that build knowledge istrars have been placed at the AH&MRC and interest in research and evaluation. and have undertaken projects relating to The sessions are informal and provide oral health, data governance and continu- opportunities for discussion about issues ous quality improvement, as well as sup- relevant to the sector in terms of policy porting the work of other members of the and practice. AH&MRC Public Health Team.

40 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 DONATIONS Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council of New South Wales

Donating to the AH&MRC

Help us create a better health future for Aboriginal people in NSW

The Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales (AH&MRC) is the peak body for Aboriginal Health in NSW and is comprised of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations from across the State, all of which provide vital health and related services to the Aboriginal communities they serve. All donations to the AH&MRC are used to fund initiatives which aim to improve the health of Aboriginal people in NSW. You can choose from three donation types: General donations Every contribution, large or small, makes Endowments & a difference to the health outcomes of scholarships Aboriginal people in NSW. Your donation Invest in a better health future for Aborig- will be added to a general fund which is inal people today by making a substantive dedicated to improving the health and contribution to the education and training wellbeing of Aboriginal communities of new workers in the Aboriginal health throughout the State. sector. A range of education and training endowments and scholarships are avail- Bequests able to support the important work of You can leave a lasting legacy by including the Aboriginal Health College and other a bequest to the AH&MRC in your will. AH&MRC-affiliated training providers.

How to donate Internet Telephone • There are absolutely no To donate online, please visit the To donate via telephone, call management fees or charges “Donate” page on the AH&MRC (02) 9212 4777. under any spurious names. website at: http://www.ahmrc.org.au Please have your details on hand • Bank and Audit fees are covered when you call. by the AH&MRC Secretariat Mail • Donations over two dollars Cheques or money orders, made Facts, Fees & Charges ($2.00) are Tax Deductible. payable to The Aboriginal Health and • The AH&MRC is a Public Medical Research Council of NSW may Company registered with ASIC be sent to: [ABN 66 085 654 397]. Contact Us • The AH&MRC has a current If you have any questions about AH&MRC of NSW “Endorsement as a deductible making a donation, please do not PO Box 1565 gift recipient” issued by the hesitate to contact the AH&MRC on Strawberry Hills NSW 2012 Australian Taxation Office. (02) 9212 4777. Australia • This may be ‘cross-checked’ on the ABN Lookup web site at http://www.abr.business.gov.au

39 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 AH&MRC of NSW Annual Report 2012-13 74 Aboriginal Health – the social, cultural and emotional wellbeing of the whole community, where every individual can realise their full potential Aboriginal Health – the social, cultural and emotional wellbeing of the whole community, where every individual can realise their full potential