A pathway towards self-determination

Transition to a community-driven approach

In 2024, Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) established an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reference group, named the Aboriginal Consultative Council, to support connection, action, and change.

Made up of the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) within the EMPHN catchment, the group leads the development of an EMPHN health and wellbeing strategy and roadmap to self-determination.

The work of the group builds on the foundational work established by EMPHN’s Reconciliation Action Plan Steering Committee and takes on the work included in the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

This new approach marks a significant transition from the EMPHN RAP to a community-driven approach. This shift underscores EMPHN’s commitment to closing the gap, Indigenous self-determination, and the community voice at the centre of planning.