ALPA has successfully launched into partnership with Darwin Community Legal Service (DCSL) for an Aged Care Advocacy Pilot program, funded by the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).

Operating in the remote First Nations communities of Milingimbi and Ramingining, the program has already resulted in over 20 referrals.

A recent study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that only 52% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people used the aged care services they were eligible for, supporting the need for improved access and care models.

Aged Care Champions

To launch this pilot program, ALPA recruited three Aged Care Champions in East Arnhem Land: Hope Meatuai, Jacob Balbunhamirri and Gertie Nawia from the ALPA Community Services team. 

The Aged Care Champions connect with older people in communities, share information and offer advice about pathways to further support. The program provides quarterly face-to-face training sessions for Aged Care Champions, supported by monthly check-in sessions by phone.

ALPA Community Services General Manager, Catherine Fairlie, said: 

"Our Community Development Program (CDP) team members have really embraced this opportunity to support the community further, enhancing their daily lives and self-determination."

Building trust to drive outcomes 

ALPA’s long-standing presence in East Arnhem Land and the trust we’ve built with community members made as an ideal partner for OPAN and DCLS. By combining our knowledge and working together, we’ve been able to amplify the impact of this vital program.

‘It’s not possible to have a full-time aged care advocate in every location – and it’s not always culturally appropriate,’ OPAN CEO Craig Gear said.

‘By partnering with people who have the necessary skills, connections, knowledge and authority, we can increase knowledge of the services available'. 

‘And by coming back, again and again, we can develop a culturally appropriate and culturally safe service delivery model for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.’

In May OPAN CEO Craig Gear visited Darwin and Ramingining in May to gain a deeper understanding of the program on the ground and engage community members. 

Ramingining community engagement