Media Release
7 June 2008
Dedicated Minister for Aboriginal Health welcomed
Dr Mick Adams, chair of NACCHO*, the peak body for Aboriginal community
controlled medical services says the appointment of a minister with specific
responsibility for Indigenous health within the health portfolio is a major step forward.
Dr Adams said “Minister Warren Snowdon’s track record of over twenty years as a
parliamentarian advocating for Aboriginal People in the Northern Territory gives him
a good understanding of issues facing Aboriginal Peoples generally”.
“I am sure he will be a great advocate for the health needs of rural, regional and, as
importantly, for urban Aboriginal communities.
“Mr Snowdon appreciates the need for Aboriginal Peoples to be involved in setting
the priorities in health as well as delivering services in a culturally appropriate way.
“I congratulate Prime Minister Rudd on his creation of this portfolio.
“It will raise the profile of Aboriginal Health within the Health portfolio and hopefully
also act as a bridge to the government’s agenda in Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Affairs under Minister Macklin.
“The Aboriginal community controlled health sector, representing over 145 urban,
regional and remote services with over thirty years experience in frontline care looks
forward to working with Mr Snowdon and the government in partnership.
“Aboriginal People’s full participation in the health service design, delivery, monitoring
and evaluation is integral to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal People” Dr
Adams said.
*National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
NACCHO Media Contacts:
Chairperson Dr Mick Adams 04 0964 6952
CEO Dea Delaney Thiele 04 1704 6692
Media Chris Hallett 04 0770 4788
NEWS 
