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Supporting the Primary Care Response to Family Domestic and Sexual Violence Pilot

Adelaide PHN and Country SA PHN, in partnership, have received Commonwealth funding to participate in Round 2 of a national pilot to strengthen the capacity of the primary care sector to respond to family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV) (including child sexual abuse), and to support primary care practices to create a space where victim-survivors feel safe to share their story and seek help.

This project is being delivered by Adelaide PHN in partnership with Country SA PHN.

About the Project

The Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence (FDSV) project focuses on the development and delivery of training, resources and capacity building activities for primary care staff to enhance their capacity to recognise and respond to FDSV, as well as a range of system integration activities to ensure that victim-survivors receive an improved quality of support.

The FDSV project aims to improve integration and coordination between the primary care and the FDVS sector.  Project activities target general practice-based primary care workers, including health professionals (general practitioners (GPs), practice nurses and allied health staff) and administrative staff (practice managers, receptionists and administration).


The FDSV project aims to contribute to the following outcomes:

  • Enhancing general practice-based primary care workers’ awareness of FDSV and their capacity to identify and support DFV victim-survivors
  • Enhancing relationships and collaboration between the primary care and FDSV sectors to ensure coordinated responses to those affected by FDSV
  • Increasing primary care sector referrals to FDSV support services
  • Improving the support experience and outcomes for FDSV victim-survivors.


A key attribute of the FDSV project is its flexibility in model design and implementation, Adelaide PHN will develop and implement a tailored model developed in response to the local needs and service context.

Adelaide PHN’s tailored approach will focus on three core components, being training, system integration, and influencing the system for sustainable change.

Round 1 of the Project

In 2019, 6 PHNs were funded as part of a national pilot to support primary care services to recognise and respond to family and domestic violence. Each PHN developed a model of support based on local needs as part of a place-based commissioning approach.


The models developed by the PHNs all had slight differences but were built on similar core components: 

  • Whole of practice approach – which involved not only general practitioners but practice nurses, practice managers and administrative staff,
  • Workforce capacity building - through formal (CPD accredited) training and informal training for the primary care sector,
  • The creation of a local link/system integrator role - usually an organisation with expert knowledge of the local FDV sector who was funded by the PHN to build relationships with general practices in their region, deliver informal and formal training to the primary care sector, support the strengthening of referral pathways between general practitioners and specialist support providers and undertake quality improvement practices,
  • System influence activities. 

Round 2 of the Project

In the 2022-2023 budget the Commonwealth Government announced additional funding for the Supporting the Primary Care sector response to Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence pilot. The funding intends to expand and enhance the work undertaken by the 6 PHN pilot sites who participated in Round 1. This expansion encompasses both:  

  • The establishment of additional family and domestic violence pilots to locate a pilot in each state and territory,  
  • And the addition and integration of supports to improve primary care response to and health system navigation by victims-survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse to both the existing and new pilots.

Adelaide PHN in partnership with Country SA PHN received funding to take a statewide approach to the FDSV pilot. The project objectives are as follows:  

  • Support primary health care providers to implement a model of support to assist in the early identification and intervention of FDSV, and coordinate referrals to support services;  
  • Increase the capacity and capability of the primary care workforce to better care for victims-survivors of FDSV and persons living with FDSV;  
  • Improve the primary care system integration with the broader FDSV service response system and health service navigation for victims-survivors of sexual violence.   

There are four stages to this project:

  1. Exploration of need and establishing project team;
  2. Planning and undertaking co-design;
  3. Implementation of pilot and integrated modules;
  4. Monitor and evaluate.

Evaluation of Round 1 of The Pilot

The pilot was independently evaluated by the Sax Institute and the models developed were well received by the stakeholders. Key outcomes included;

  • Enhanced primary care sector capacity to recognise and respond to FDV
  • Enhanced relationships between FDV and primary care sectors
  • Increased primary care sector referrals to FDV services
  • Improved outcomes for FDV victim-survivors

For more information regarding the evaluation of Round 1 of the pilot, please see the evaluation report: Evaluation of the Improving Health System Responses to Family and Domestic Violence Primary Health Network Pilots

Contact Information

If you would like to be involved in some way, or just kept informed, please contact the FDSV project team at: [email protected]

 

Get Involved

It is anticipated that full time GPs can see as many as 5 patients experiencing violence each week. Family, domestic, and sexual violence are often hidden from others in the community.

The silent nature of abuse means that it can be hard to have the conversation about abuse. Victim-survivors of violence and abuse are more likely to tell their GPs about their experiences more than any other professional group.

Therefore, primary care providers play a critical role in supporting people who are experiencing family, domestic and sexual violence.

The Supporting the Primary Care sector response to Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence pilot here in SA will give primary care providers the tools to get their patients the right support at the right time. If you would like to be involved with this work, there are a range of opportunities to be involved for primary care providers, representatives from the FDSV response sectors, and those with lived experience of FDSV.

Needs Assessment - Closed

The FDSV Project team spoke to people with lived experience of FDSV, primary care providers, and representatives from the FDSV response sectors across regional and metropolitan South Australia through one-on-one conversations, focus groups, and surveys.

The team aimed to understand how primary care providers currently support their patients’ experiencing violence and where there might be gaps or ways that this support could be improved. The team also learned how primary care and specialist FDSV response services currently work together and how this could be improved.

The outcomes of the needs assessment will be published in a report on the respective Adelaide PHN and Country SA PHN websites.

Advisory Panels - Closed but may reopen in future

Two advisory panels have been put together to support the work of this project. 

The first, a GP Advisory Panel represents the primary care sector across South Australia and will advise the project team on matters related to all phases of the project, including collaborative design and implementation of the model.

The GP Advisory Panel will assist the project team to effectively engage with and support General Practice to ultimately build their capacity to recognise, respond to, and refer patients who may be at risk of or who are experiencing violence or abuse.

The GP Advisory Panel will be expected to provide general advice regarding the primary care sector, whilst also advocating for their own communities. Recruitment for the GP Advisory Panel has closed at this time but may re-open in future if more members are needed. 

The second, a Lived Experience Advisory Panel, has been convened by LELAN to shape and co-design how responses to victim-survivor disclosures and links to additional support can be enhanced and expanded through this model.

To centre victim-survivors in building the supports they need and use, LELAN will be convening this Panel and are additionally contributing to partnership and decision-making processes.

LELAN is the independent peak body in South Australia by, for and with people with lived experience of mental distress, social issues or injustice. LELAN’s systemic advocacy targets the mental health and social sectors in South Australia, whilst their thought leadership and expertise on lived experience expertise and leadership is borderless.

At this time, recruitment for the Lived Experience Advisory Panel has closed but may re-open in future if more members are needed.

Collaborative Design and Consultation

A series of community consultations and collaborative design activities occurred between October and December. These activities were an opportunity for individuals living or working in the two pilot regions to take part in the design of the pilot model. 

Pilot Regions (boundaries to be defined through collaborative design activities) 

  • Country SA: a hub and spoke model with physical sites located in Whyalla and Port Augusta, and outreach to surrounding areas 
  • Adelaide: Salisbury and Playford LGAs 

The collaborative design activities aimed to capture the views and experiences of those who were most affected by the model. This included: 

  • People with lived experience of FDSV (including adult survivors of CSA), 
  • Primary care providers (GPs, practice nurses, practice managers and anybody else who shapes the primary care environment), 
  • Organisations who provide services to people experiencing FDSV. 

In addition, activities were catered towards communities that are heavily affected by violence and abuse and often experience inadequate access to acceptable services. This includes those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, multicultural communities, LGBTIQA+ communities, and people living with disability communities. Specialist facilitators from TACSI, Purple Orange, NINI and LELAN were engaged to make sure the activities in this phase were culturally safe, accessible and inclusive, and trauma informed.  

Commissioning and Implementation of the Model

Applications are open for General Practices to participate in the Supporting the Primary Care Response to Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence pilot project.

The pilot project aims to provide strategies for the primary care work force to Recognise, Respond to, and Refer patients experiencing FDSV and CSA.

Participating practices will get access to specialised online training suitable for clinicians and all staff, as well as a dedicated triage, referral and support service.

An information session will be held on Thursday 10 April to provide information about the application process, what’s involved, and the benefits for participating. To attend, register here.

If you’d like to be kept informed, please feel free to reach out to: [email protected]

Learn More about FDSV

Under the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010–2022 and the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032, many resources have been commissioned by the Commonwealth Government to increase the capacity of mainstream services to better respond to people experiencing family, domestic and sexual violence. 

We all have a role to play in ending violence against women and children. Mainstream services, like primary care, are not expected to be specialists in responding to violence and abuse but as trusted members of our communities, they can be effective first responders.

The links below include a range of training modules and short resources for individual professionals to improve their knowledge, as well as some useful toolkits and information packages which may be helpful to use in your practice with patients and clients. 

This section of our website will be regularly updated as new resources are released. If your organisation has a resource that you think would be useful for the primary care workforce, please reach out to the FDSV project team at: [email protected]

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners

The RACGP publish the White book for health professionals – Abuse and violence: working with our patients in general practice.

HealthPathways South Australia

HealthPathways is an online portal that provides GPs and other health professionals with easy access to comprehensive, evidence-based assessment, management, and localised referral resources for specific health conditions. 

HealthPathways SA currently has a suite of pathways available to support health professionals with patients who may be experiencing violence and abuse, with more in development.

The child abuse and neglect pathway provides questions and responses on issues such as disclosure, safety screening, resources, and mandated reporting.

The pathway acknowledges cultural variations in parenting practices and the challenges surrounding limited resources available to migrants and refugees.

The domestic and family violence pathway provides help for clinicians to discern who and when to screen for domestic and family violence and includes a structured online DV risk assessment and guidance for escalation to multi-agency protection and support services.

Health Professionals can sign up free and access HealthPathways SA here.

HealthPathways SA is a partnership between SA Health, Adelaide PHN and Country SA PHN.

National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse

In March 2024, The National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse (National Centre) launched initial foundational resources for the Strengthening Primary Health Care Responses to Sexual Violence and Child Sexual Abuse project, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

The initial suite of resources includes two written reference guides and a short video, which are available on the National Centre website:  Strengthening Primary Health Care Responses - The National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse

Outside of the resources developed specifically for the primary health care workforce, The National Centre website includes a range of resources including webinars, knowledge summaries, and reports. It is a great place to stay up-to-date on the latest evidence about child sexual abuse. 

The Safer Families Centre

The Safer Families Centre of Research Excellence delivers the Readiness Program training for frontline healthcare workers. The Safer Families Centre is a partnership with:

  • the University of Melbourne
  • the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
  • the Blue Knot Foundation
  • Phoenix Australia.

The Safer Families Centre has a range of self-paced learning modules that have been accredited through the RACGP for CPD. In addition, there is a series of RACGP hosted webinars available on the Safer Families website. Finally, the Safer Families website has a variety of clinical tools to support your work with patients. 

Recognising and Responding to Sexual Violence in Adults

Monash University has partnered with the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine to develop and deliver a three-unit Course for health practitioners in Recognising and Responding to Sexual Violence which commenced in 2021 and will continue until 2027.

Monash University is seeking expressions of interest from AHPRA registered and Australia-based practicing health practitioners providing primary health care services to undertake the RACGP and other medical college CPD-accredited training at no cost.

You can enrol in single or multiple units.

More information and registration can be found here.

The Zahra Foundation Australia

The Zahra Foundation Australia are deeply committed to addressing the critical issues of financial abuse and coercive control - forms of domestic and family violence that have a profound impact on individuals' lives.

Financial abuse occurs when someone controls access to money and resources, often leaving the victim unable to make decisions about their finances or those shared in a relationship. This form of abuse is subtle yet deeply harmful, affecting one in six women in Australia and present in 60% of domestic and family violence situations.

Zahra Foundation Australia has developed an education campaign with multiple resources that clearly outline what financial abuse is, how it manifests, and where to find help. Additionally, they offer essential advice not only for victims and survivors but also for their colleagues, friends and family members.

These resources can be accessed through their website – The Zahra Foundation – Resource Library.

About MyMedicare

Registration in MyMedicare is voluntary for patients, practices and providers

MyMedicare is a new voluntary patient registration model. It aims to strengthen the relationship between patients, their general practice, general practitioner (GP) and primary care teams.

Why it is important

MyMedicare patients will have access to:

  • greater continuity of care with their registered practice, improving health outcomes
  • longer MBS-funded telephone calls (Levels C and D) with their usual general practice
  • triple bulk billing incentive for longer MBS telehealth consultations (Levels C, D and E) for children under 16, pensioners, and concession card holders.
MyMedicare

The 2023–24 Budget invests $19.7 million over 4 years in MyMedicare.

A further $39.8 million will be delivered over 4 years to support systems delivery through Services Australia.

 

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program Calculator and Practice Readiness Checklist 

Services Australia has developed a practice registration checklist to guide practices through the MyMedicare registration process. This can be found here . 

From 1 November 2025, practices can choose to register and participate in the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) and will equally share in the additional incentive payment of 12.5%.

 A new BBPIP Practice Readiness Checklist has been developed to assist practices that intend to register for BBPIP with their planning and preparation.

A calculator is available for general practice owners, managers and individual general practitioners to estimate annual earnings from *Medicare bulk billing incentives*  (BBIs) and the new  Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP), starting 1 November 2025. Access to the  Bulk Billing Incentives Calculator can be obtained here.

The Bulk Billing Incentives Calculator User Guide explains how to use the calculator.

For information or support on the Bulk Billing Practice Incentives or MyMedicare please contact the Country SA PHN 

 

Website

Updates and Reminders

MyMedicare Accreditation Details

All MyMedicare Registered Practices must keep their Accreditation Details up to date in the MyMedicare system to maintain MyMedicare eligibility and ensure incentive payments are not impacted.

Information for practices on how to update these details is available at slide 9 of the following HPE resource: hpe.servicesaustralia.gov.au/MODULES/ORGREG/ORGREGM03/index.

Please reach out for additional assistance, if required.

MyMedicare Patient Registration - Consent and Record Keeping Requirements

Patient Registration - Consent and Record Keeping Requirements 

Patients aged 14 years and over must provide consent when registering in MyMedicare. Consent for MyMedicare for patients under 14 is required by a parent or guardian.

Under current MyMedicare policy, staff at aged care facilities or treating doctors are not permitted to complete and sign the MyMedicare registration form on behalf of the patient.

If a patient is incapable of providing consent, a signed consent form from a responsible person is required to ensure compliance with audit and privacy standards. A responsible person refers to an adult who is accompanying the patient or responsible for their care. This may include a parent, guardian, a person with POA or guardianship authority, authorised representative or the patient’s next of kin.

To register a patient with MyMedicare a practice must declare that the individual providing consent has signed and completed an authorised Patient Registration form, and the practice will retain a copy of this form for compliance of record keeping obligations in accordance with federal, state and territory legislation applicable to their practice. A practice also declares that the information provided is true and correct, and they understand that giving false or misleading information is a serious offence.

Only the authorised MyMedicare Registration form available online at the Department’s website can be used to register a patient in MyMedicare. This form is available here: MyMedicare Registration Form | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

May 2025 - Services Australia MyMedicare and GPACI updates

1. GPACI Q4 Service and Payment requirements:

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) Quarter 4 (Q4) payment requirements are different to the requirements for Q1, Q2 and Q3. 

Patients who had the GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile in the July-September 2024 quarter are [as at May 2025] in Q4 of their 12-month care period. 

Practices and providers must familiarise themselves with the below requirements, to ensure they meet Q4 eligibility. 

 

Requirements: 

Patients who had the GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile in the July-September 2024 quarter are now [May 2025] in Q4 of their 12-month care period. 

To receive Incentive payments for GPACI patients in Q4, practices and providers must deliver the GPACI quarterly servicing requirements AND the GPACI annual servicing requirements. 

  • Individual providers may have some patients in Q4 while other patients may be in Q1, Q2 or Q3. 
    • This is dependent on when the patient had GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile; not when the practice registered for GPACI or when the practice linked the provider to the patient as the Responsible Provider.
    • It is the responsibility of the practice and the Responsible Provider to make sure they track which quarter each individual patient is in, and that all servicing requirements are met.
    • It is recommended that practices and providers run an Eligibility Forecast in HPOS, particularly for patients in Q4. This will identify any servicing requirements that have not been met.

 

  • Both the quarterly and annual servicing requirements must be met by both the practice and the Responsible Provider for either of them to be eligible for the Q4 payment.

  • If practices and providers were assessed as ineligible for Q1, Q2 or Q3 they must still meet the annual servicing requirements by the end of Q4 to be eligible for the Q4 payment.
    • Note that the Responsible Provider is required to deliver care to patients in line with the patient’s need. That is, all MBS services must be clinically relevant.
    • Meeting the annual servicing requirements (i.e. 8 regular services and 2 care planning services) contributes to eligibility for a Q4 payment. It does not trigger back-pay for any previous ineligible quarters. 

 

Quarterly servicing requirements (for all quarters, including Q4):

Each quarter:

  • the practice and provider must deliver at least 2 regular services to the patient, each in a separate calendar month.
  • the Responsible Provider must deliver at least one of the regular services. The other regular service can be delivered by either the Responsible Provider or an Alternate Provider.

 

Annual servicing requirements:

In each 12-month annual care period:

  • 2 care planning services must be delivered by the Responsible Provider.
  • 8 regular services must be delivered. For the annual assessment, these services do not have to be delivered:
    • in separate months or quarters.
    • by the Responsible Provider. They need to be delivered by an eligible provider linked to the same practice as the patient receiving the services.

 

Failure to meet the annual servicing requirements:

If the Responsible Provider does not deliver the 2 care planning services by the end of the 12-month care period:

  • the practice and the Responsible Provider will not get the Q4 payment.
  • the Responsible Provider must deliver at least 1 care planning service in Q1 of the following 12-month care period.

If the requirements are not met, the practice and provider will be ineligible for the Incentive payments for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

 

HPOS sends notifications to the practice and Responsible Provider:

  • if they did not meet the annual servicing requirements for a patient by the end of Q4, to notify them of the requirements to maintain eligibility.
  • if they fail to meet this requirement in Q1 of the following 12-month care period, to notify them that the practice and Responsible Provider are not eligible for assessment for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

Additional information regarding servicing requirements, including for Q4, can be found in the GPACI program guidelines here.

 

2. MyMedicare Accreditation Details

All MyMedicare Registered Practices must keep their Accreditation Details up to date in the MyMedicare system to maintain MyMedicare eligibility and ensure incentive payments are not impacted.

Information for practices on how to update these details is available at slide 9 of the following HPE resource: hpe.servicesaustralia.gov.au/MODULES/ORGREG/ORGREGM03/index.

Practices may reach out to Services Australia or Country SA PHN for additional assistance, if required. 

 

3. Patient Registration - Consent and Record Keeping Requirements  

Patients aged 14 years and over must provide consent when registering in MyMedicare. Consent for MyMedicare for patients under 14 is required by a parent or guardian.

Under current MyMedicare policy, staff at aged care facilities or treating doctors are not permitted to complete and sign the MyMedicare registration form on behalf of the patient. 

If a patient is incapable of providing consent, a signed consent form from a responsible person is required to ensure compliance with audit and privacy standards. A responsible person refers to an adult who is accompanying the patient or responsible for their care. This may include a parent, guardian, a person with POA or guardianship authority, authorised representative or the patient’s next of kin.

To register a patient with MyMedicare a practice must declare that the individual providing consent has signed and completed an authorised Patient Registration form, and the practice will retain a copy of this form for compliance of record keeping obligations in accordance with federal, state and territory legislation applicable to their practice. A practice also declares that the information provided is true and correct, and they understand that giving false or misleading information is a serious offence. 

Only the authorised MyMedicare Registration form available online at the Department’s website can be used to register a patient in MyMedicare. This form is available at www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/mymedicare-registration-form.

April 2025 - MyMedicare updates and reminders

MyMedicare Accreditation Exemption date extended to 31 December 2026:

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care are pleased to advise that the accreditation exemption for non-traditional practices choosing to participate in MyMedicare has been extended from 30 June 2025 until 31 December 2026.

The accreditation exemption is available to non-accredited practices (including sole providers) who deliver general practice services entirely through mobile and outreach models:

  • in rural settings
  • in residential aged care
  • in disability residential settings
  • to First Nations Australians
  • to people experiencing homelessness 

The extension is in recognition of the new definition of general practice for the purpose of accreditation, which may allow some non-accredited practices to now become accredited. This extension aims to support non-accredited practices in considering their accreditation options under the National General Practice Accreditation Scheme.

Practices currently utilising this MyMedicare exemption will not need to take any action to update the new end date.

 

Reminders: Turn on your HPOS mailbox notifications

We know you receive a lot of correspondence via your individual and/or organisation Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) mailboxes:

  • While some of these may be statements or everyday notifications, some of these are important and require action.
  • Turn on notifications to receive alerts for new messages, to save you having to check regularly for new mail.
  • Now that the first MyMedicare Incentive is in place, please make sure you action any notifications as required, e.g. failed payments.

 

 

Assessment & Payment Timeframes for January – March 2025 Quarter

The MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) quarterly assessment for January – March 2025, and reassessment of the previous 2 quarters, is now [April 2025] in progress.

  • Payments will be processed by 30 April. Notifications will be sent via Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) mailboxes when payment is made.
  • *IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR RESPONSIBLE PROVIDERS:  Add bank account details to HPOS for the MyMedicare program or GPACI payments won’t be able to be received. There are a number of providers who have not yet done this.

 

Tips on Managing the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI):

For GPACI, the relationship between the 3 participants is critical (the practice, the patient, and the Responsible Provider). The assessment process looks for this relationship, and anything that can potentially break or remove any of those relationships will impact GPACI payments for eligible services.

If there is a change in the relationship (e.g. new responsible provider) it is important that the previous relationship is maintained in the patient’s MyMedicare profile. Removing or deleting relationships will impact past payments.  

*Note that the Responsible Provider may not be the same practitioner as the patient’s nominated Preferred GP (e.g. a registrar may be engaged to deliver RACH services).

Below are tips on managing GPACI correctly and some cautions on what not to do (also attached as infographics). *IMPORTANT: Using actions incorrectly can impact payments, including reassessment of past payments.

 

For the Incentive Period:

  • DO select Set period and add a Start Date to add the Incentive to a patient’s MyMedicare profile.
  • DO NOT add an End Date to the Incentive period. When a patient is withdrawn from the MyMedicare program, the system will automatically end the Incentive period.
  • DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Incentive period, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
  • DO NOT Amend the Incentive period at the start of every new quarter.
  • DO NOT Delete the Incentive unless it was added to the patient’s MyMedicare profile in error.

 

For the Responsible Provider:

  • DO Add the Responsible Provider and add a Start Date.
  • DO NOT add an End Date for the Responsible Provider. If a new Responsible Provider is added, the system will automatically end the previous Responsible Provider.
  • DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Responsible Provider, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
  • DO NOT Remove the Responsible Provider unless they were added in error.

 

For the Patient:

  • DO Register the patient for the MyMedicare program as soon as possible and no later than 28 days after receiving the consent form (or they can register themselves online).
  • DO Add GPACI to the patient’s MyMedicare profile (as above).
  • DO Add a new Responsible Provider if required (only add a Start Date, do not add an End Date). Adding a new Responsible Provider will automatically end the previous one.
  • DO Add an Incentive period End Date if the Patient asks to no longer be part of GPACI (Note, this is very unlikely).
  • DO Withdraw the patient if they ask to no longer be part of the MyMedicare program or are deceased. This will automatically end the Incentive.
  • DO NOT Remove a Responsible Provider. It is important that previous relationships are maintained, even if the patient has a new Responsible Provider added, no longer wants to be involved in GPACI or MyMedicare, or is withdrawn from MyMedicare. Removing responsible providers will impact reassessment of past payments.
  • DO NOT Move a patient to a new Organisation Site unless you understand the impact to payments. Moving a patient resets their MyMedicare registration date and restarts them in Quarter 1 for GPACI.
  • DO NOT Delete GPACI from a patient’s MyMedicare profile unless the Incentive was added in error. If the patient is deceased, withdraw them from MyMedicare but do not delete the Incentive.

For support on MyMedicare, please contact [email protected]. 

 

 

General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI)

The new GPACI has been established to give aged care residents better access to high quality, continuous, and person-centred primary care.

Practices will be able to register, and providers will be able to participate in the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) through the MyMedicare program from 1 July 2024. 

To receive the incentive of $300 per patient, per year, paid to the responsible provider, and $130 per patient, per year, paid to the practice, GPs must provide an aged care patient with two eligible care planning services over a 12-month period and two eligible regular visits per quarter, each in a separate calendar month, delivering at least eight regular services in a 12-month period. 

Tips on Managing the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI)

For GPACI, the relationship between the 3 participants is critical (the practice, the patient, and the Responsible Provider). The assessment process looks for this relationship, and anything that can potentially break or remove any of those relationships will impact GPACI payments for eligible services.

If there is a change in the relationship (e.g. new responsible provider) it is important that the previous relationship is maintained in the patient’s MyMedicare profile. Removing or deleting relationships will impact past payments.  

*Note that the Responsible Provider may not be the same practitioner as the patient’s nominated Preferred GP (e.g. a registrar may be engaged to deliver RACH services).

Below are tips on managing GPACI correctly and some cautions on what not to do (also attached as infographics). *IMPORTANT: Using actions incorrectly can impact payments, including reassessment of past payments.

 

For the Incentive Period:

  • DO select Set period and add a Start Date to add the Incentive to a patient’s MyMedicare profile.
  • DO NOT add an End Date to the Incentive period. When a patient is withdrawn from the MyMedicare program, the system will automatically end the Incentive period.
  • DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Incentive period, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
  • DO NOT Amend the Incentive period at the start of every new quarter.
  • DO NOT Delete the Incentive unless it was added to the patient’s MyMedicare profile in error.

 

For the Responsible Provider:

  • DO Add the Responsible Provider and add a Start Date.
  • DO NOT add an End Date for the Responsible Provider. If a new Responsible Provider is added, the system will automatically end the previous Responsible Provider.
  • DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Responsible Provider, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
  • DO NOT Remove the Responsible Provider unless they were added in error.

 

For the Patient:

  • DO Register the patient for the MyMedicare program as soon as possible and no later than 28 days after receiving the consent form (or they can register themselves online).
  • DO Add GPACI to the patient’s MyMedicare profile (as above).
  • DO Add a new Responsible Provider if required (only add a Start Date, do not add an End Date). Adding a new Responsible Provider will automatically end the previous one.
  • DO Add an Incentive period End Date if the Patient asks to no longer be part of GPACI (Note, this is very unlikely).
  • DO Withdraw the patient if they ask to no longer be part of the MyMedicare program or are deceased. This will automatically end the Incentive.
  • DO NOT Remove a Responsible Provider. It is important that previous relationships are maintained, even if the patient has a new Responsible Provider added, no longer wants to be involved in GPACI or MyMedicare, or is withdrawn from MyMedicare. Removing responsible providers will impact reassessment of past payments.
  • DO NOT Move a patient to a new Organisation Site unless you understand the impact to payments. Moving a patient resets their MyMedicare registration date and restarts them in Quarter 1 for GPACI.
  • DO NOT Delete GPACI from a patient’s MyMedicare profile unless the Incentive was added in error. If the patient is deceased, withdraw them from MyMedicare but do not delete the Incentive.

For support on MyMedicare, please contact [email protected]. 

 

GPACI Q4 Service and Payment Requirements

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) Quarter 4 (Q4) payment requirements are different to the requirements for Q1, Q2 and Q3.

Practices and providers must familiarise themselves with the below requirements, to ensure they meet Q4 eligibility.

Requirements:

Patients who had the GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile in the July-September 2024 quarter are [as at May 2025] in Q4 of their 12-month care period.

To receive Incentive payments for GPACI patients in Q4, practices and providers must deliver the GPACI quarterly servicing requirements AND the GPACI annual servicing requirements.

  • Individual providers may have some patients in Q4 while other patients may be in Q1, Q2 or Q3.

o   This is dependent on when the patient had GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile; not when the practice registered for GPACI or when the practice linked the provider to the patient as the Responsible Provider.

o   It is the responsibility of the practice and the Responsible Provider to make sure they track which quarter each individual patient is in, and that all servicing requirements are met.

o   It is recommended that practices and providers run an Eligibility Forecast in HPOS, particularly for patients in Q4. This will identify any servicing requirements that have not been met.

  • Both the quarterly and annual servicing requirements must be met by both the practice and the Responsible Provider for either of them to be eligible for the Q4 payment.
  • If practices and providers were assessed as ineligible for Q1, Q2 or Q3 they must still meet the annual servicing requirements by the end of Q4 to be eligible for the Q4 payment.

o   Note that the Responsible Provider is required to deliver care to patients in line with the patient’s need. That is, all MBS services must be clinically relevant.

o   Meeting the annual servicing requirements (i.e. 8 regular services and 2 care planning services) contributes to eligibility for a Q4 payment. It does not trigger back-pay for any previous ineligible quarters.

 

Quarterly servicing requirements (for all quarters, including Q4):

Each quarter:

  • the practice and provider must deliver at least 2 regular services to the patient, each in a separate calendar month.
  • the Responsible Provider must deliver at least one of the regular services. The other regular service can be delivered by either the Responsible Provider or an Alternate Provider.

Annual servicing requirements:

In each 12-month annual care period:

  • 2 care planning services must be delivered by the Responsible Provider.
  • 8 regular services must be delivered. For the annual assessment, these services do not have to be delivered:

o   in separate months or quarters.

o   by the Responsible Provider. They need to be delivered by an eligible provider linked to the same practice as the patient receiving the services.

 

Failure to meet the annual servicing requirements:

If the Responsible Provider does not deliver the 2 care planning services by the end of the 12-month care period:

  • the practice and the Responsible Provider will not get the Q4 payment.
  • the Responsible Provider must deliver at least 1 care planning service in Q1 of the following 12-month care period.

If the requirements are not met, the practice and provider will be ineligible for the Incentive payments for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

HPOS sends notifications to the practice and Responsible Provider:

  • if they did not meet the annual servicing requirements for a patient by the end of Q4, to notify them of the requirements to maintain eligibility.
  • if they fail to meet this requirement in Q1 of the following 12-month care period, to notify them that the practice and Responsible Provider are not eligible for assessment for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

Additional information regarding servicing requirements, including for Q4, can be found in the GPACI program guidelines here.

More information about GPACI

For further information about GPACI, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website links below or email the Primary Care and Digital Support Team.

For Practices

For Providers

More resources

Chronic Conditions Management

2025 has brought changes to Chronic Conditions Management.

Changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework - GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP)

From 1 July 2025, a new framework for chronic disease management will be introduced. Under this updated system, the existing GP Management Plans (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCA) will be replaced by a single, consolidated plan known as the GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).

Changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework - MBS Items for GP Chronic Condition Management Plans

This change to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) is designed to simplify, streamline, and modernise chronic disease management arrangements for health professionals, reducing administrative complexity and improving consistency of care.

Eligibility for the GPCCMP

  • The GPCCMP is intended for patients with chronic or terminal medical conditions who would benefit from a structured and coordinated approach to their care.
  • Specifically, a patient is eligible if they have at least one medical condition that has been (or is expected to be) present for six months or more, or is terminal.
  • Eligibility will be determined at the clinical discretion of a GP or Prescribed Medical Practitioner (PMP), who will assess whether the patient is likely to benefit from the plan.
  • Patients living in residential aged care facilities are not eligible for a GPCCMP.
  • To access a GPCCMP and associated review services, patients must be registered with MyMedicare and receive these services through the practice where they are registered.

This change consolidates existing planning tools into a single, more efficient mechanism for managing chronic conditions and aims to better support both patients and healthcare providers in delivering long-term care.

Changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework - Overview

Transition Arrangements for the new Chronic Disease Management Framework

To support the implementation of the new GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) framework from 1 July 2025, transition arrangements will be in place for two years, until 30 June 2027.

What’s Changing from 1 July 2025

  • From this date, all new chronic disease management plans must be created using the GPCCMP.
  • This applies to:
    • New patients with a chronic condition requiring a structured care plan.
    • New referrals written under either:
      • Existing GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs), or
      • The new GPCCMP.

For Patients with Existing GPMPs and/or TCAs (Before 1 July 2025)

  • No immediate action is required.
  • Patients can continue to access allied health and other relevant services under their existing GPMPs and TCAs until 30 June 2027.
  • Referrals written before 1 July 2025 remain valid and may continue to be used until all services under that referral have been delivered, even if this extends beyond 1 July 2025.

For further details on the transition process, please refer to the transition arrangements fact sheet.

MBS Items

From 1 July 2025 the following MBS items will cease:

  • GP management plans - 229, 721, 92024, 92055
  • Team care arrangements - 230, 723, 92025, 92056
  • Reviews - 233, 732, 92028, 92059

These changes do not affect multidisciplinary care plan items (231, 232, 729, 731, 92026, 92027, 92057, 92058). 

The new GPCCMP and review items commencing 1 July 2025 can be conducted in person or via telehealth.  

Changes to Chronic Disease Management MBS Items – Transition Arrangements for Existing Patients

Items for the preparation or review of a GPCCMP cannot be co-claimed on the same day as general attendance items.  GPCCMP items may be claimed with single bulk billing incentives when eligible patients are bulk billed and will be included in the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program from 1 November 2025.

Preparation and Review of a GP Chronic Conditions Management Plan (GPCCMP)

Effective from 1 July 2025

Preparation of a GPCCMP

From 1 July 2025, a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) can be prepared for eligible patients with a chronic or terminal medical condition. The preparation of a GPCCMP is led by the patient’s General Practitioner (GP), with support allowed from:

  • Practice Nurses
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners
  • Aboriginal Health Workers

A GPCCMP can be prepared once every 12 months, unless exceptional circumstances justify more frequent preparation.

 

Access to MBS-Supported Services Under a GPCCMP

Once a GPCCMP is in place, patients may access the following services under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), where these are clinically relevant and consistent with the care plan:

  • Up to 5 individual allied health services per calendar year.
  • Up to 10 individual allied health services per calendar year for patients of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.
  • Up to 5 services delivered on behalf of the medical practitioner by a Practice Nurse or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner.
  • For patients with type 2 diabetes:
    • An assessment of suitability for group services (dietetics, diabetes education, or exercise physiology).
    • If assessed as suitable, up to 8 group services for diabetes management per calendar year.

Note: The previous requirement for at least two collaborating providers as part of the care plan has been removed under the new GPCCMP model.

 

Review of a GPCCMP

Reviews of a GPCCMP can also be supported by Practice Nurses, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners, and Aboriginal Health Workers.

  • A GPCCMP can be reviewed every 3 months, if clinically necessary.
  • It is not mandatory to create a new plan annually. An existing GPCCMP can be reviewed and updated as required, ensuring continuity of care.
  • Patients must have had their GPCCMP either prepared or reviewed within the previous 18 months to maintain eligibility for allied health services under the MBS.

If a patient with a GPMP or TCA created before 1 July 2025 requires a review after that date, they must first have a new GPCCMP prepared to access continued services.

Allied Health: New Chronic Conditions Management Details

MBS Online has recently published the Upcoming Changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework confirming the new framework for chronic condition management from 1 July 2025. 

 

The changes simplify, streamline, and modernise the arrangements for health care professionals and patients.

Allied health professionals providing MBS services should be aware of the changes to plan and referral requirements.


Requirements for the GP or prescribed medical practitioner to collaborate with other members of the team when preparing or reviewing a patient’s plan have been removed. Patients will be referred directly to services. Allied health providers do not need to confirm their agreement to participate in the patient’s multidisciplinary team.

 

The nature of the individual and group allied health services that can be provided under the chronic condition management arrangements are not changing.


Transition arrangements will be in place for 2 years to ensure current patients do not lose access to services.


From 1 July 2025:
 

  • GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs) will be replaced with a single GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).
     

  • Requirements for the GP or prescribed medical practitioner to collaborate with other members of the team when preparing or reviewing a patient’s plan have been removed. Patients will be referred directly to services. Allied health providers do not need to confirm their agreement to participate in the patient’s multidisciplinary team.
     

  • Patients with a GPCCMP will be able to access individual allied health services, and for patients with type 2 diabetes only, group allied health services.
     

  • Patients with a GPMP and/or TCA in place prior to 1 July 2025 can continue to access these services under those plans until 30 June 2027. Referrals written prior to 1 July 2025 remain valid until all services under the referral have been provided (see separate factsheet on transition arrangements).
     

  • Allied health providers should be aware that referrals for allied health services written on or after 1 July 2025 must meet the new referral requirements (see separate factsheets on referrals and allied health services).
     

  • All other MBS requirements of the existing allied health services are unchanged, including requirements to provide written reports to the referring medical practitioner.

 

For more information, MBS Online has released a selection of Factsheets here: 
MBS Online - Upcoming changes to the MBS Chronic Disease Management Framework

For support on MyMedicare and CCM Changes, please contact Country SA PHN on [email protected].

Referrals to Allied Health Services and Multidisciplinary Teams

Referrals for allied health services issued prior to 1 July 2025 will remain valid until all services specified under the referral have been delivered.

Where possible, referrals can be signed and transmitted electronically. There is no requirement for allied health providers to confirm receipt or acceptance of the referral, nor to contribute to the preparation of the General Practitioner Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).

When referring a patient to a multidisciplinary team member, the GP or Primary Medical Provider (PMP) must obtain the patient's ongoing consent to share relevant health information with that team. If the patient consents, the GP is responsible for providing both:

  • A referral to the multidisciplinary team member, and
  • Any updated, relevant sections of the GPCCMP to support coordinated care.

Referrals do not need to:

  • Specify the name of the allied health provider. For example, a patient referred for physiotherapy under a GPCCMP may choose their preferred physiotherapist.
  • Specify the number of services to be provided.

Please note that the new referral requirements do not apply to other MBS-supported allied health services, including:

  • Better Access psychological therapy services
  • Focussed psychological strategies (allied mental health)
  • Eating disorder-related allied health services
  • Diagnostic audiology services

For more detailed guidance, please refer to the fact sheet on referral arrangements for allied health services, which outlines the updated referral guidelines.

Webinars

Changes to Chronic Conditions Management have come into effect as of 1 July 2025.

Funded by Country SA PHN, CDM Plus are holding webinars for general practice staff to assist these services in relation to the Chronic Conditions Management changes.

For more information, and to register, click here.

More information

For information about Chronic Conditions Management, visit the following resources:

Bulk Billing Incentive

From 1 November 2025 every general practice will benefit from expanded eligibility for MBS bulk billing incentives to all Australians with a Medicare card.

The expanded eligibility of the existing MBS bulk billing incentive to all Australians means that current bulk billing incentives payable to practices that bulk bill children under 16 years of age and patients with a Commonwealth concession card will expand to include all Australians with a Medicare card.

Additionally, from 1 November 2025, practices will be able to choose if they wish to participate in the new bulk billing practice incentive program.

New information on both of these bulk billing measures is now available on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website including frequently asked questions, and details on eligible MBS services.

A new fact sheet is also available: The impact of bulk billing investments on GP earnings and billings

Information about the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program

Practices participating in the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (the Program) will receive an additional 12.5% incentive payment on every $1 of MBS benefit earned from eligible services, split between the GP and the practice. 

Participating practices must bulk bill every eligible service for every patient, to receive the incentive payment. This incentive payment will be in addition to MBS Benefits paid (including bulk billing incentives).

To participate in the Program, practices will need to: 

  • Bulk bill all eligible services 
  • Advertise their participation in the Program 
  • Be MyMedicare registered (note that practices that are not already MyMedicare registered and wish to participate in the Program will be exempt from MyMedicare accreditation requirements). 

To register in the Program, practices will need to:

  1. register to participate in MyMedicare
  2. register to participate in the Program via MyMedicare.

General Practices can register to participate in the Program from 1 November 2025.

Accredited practices can prepare in advance, by registering for MyMedicare now.

Instructions on how to register for MyMedicare are available on the Services Australia Health Professional Education Resources website.

For support on MyMedicare, please contact [email protected].

More information

New resources to support the proposed Bulk Billing Incentive measures include:

Resources and Webinar Recordings

MyMedicare Forms

Featured Image: Flamingo Images/Adobe Stock

Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Online

3 Steps to Prevent Suicide

Three steps anyone can learn to
help prevent suicide.

Save a life

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer – the 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. QPR training will provide you with:

  1. Knowledge and skills to identify warning signs that someone may be suicidal.
  2. Confidence to talk about suicidal thoughts
  3. Connect them with professional care

If you live in Country South Australia you can access the training free using the code CSA

Start QPR Training

For any enquiries regarding the training please contact Country SA PHN to obtain a licence free of charge.

Contact Country SA PHN
Start QPR Training
Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question about QPR? We’re here to help.

Contact Us
What is QPR?

Question Persuade and Refer (QPR) is an evidence-based training which provides:

  • Knowledge and skills to identify warning signs that someone may be suicidal
  • Confidence to talk to them about suicidal thoughts
  • Connect them with professional care
How long does the training take to complete?

The self-paced session takes 60-90 minutes on average to complete and does not need to be completed in a single sitting – you can take as long as you like and take a break as need.

What will the training cover?

QPR online covers the following content:

  • Common myths and misconceptions about suicide
  • Warning signs of suicide (Direct verbal, indirect verbal, behavioural, situational)
  • How to ask the suicide question (direct and less direct methods)
  • How to persuade someone to stay alive How to refer individuals to help
How do I access the training?

QPR online licences can be accessed by contacting Country SA PHN at [email protected].

You will then be provided with:

  • Username
  • Password
  • Link to QPR online training website

If you are having difficulties logging into your account, please contact [email protected].

What resources will I need to complete the training?

All you need to complete QPR online is your username/password and access to a computer or mobile device with internet connection.

Suicide prevention training can bring up strong emotions. How are people supported to seek help if they need it?

At all times during the QPR online training there will be a Need Help option which will refer the participant to support lines.

I have recently been personally affected by suicide. Is it safe for me to do the training?

Community suicide prevention training aims to teach individuals the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. QPR training is not recommended for individuals recently bereaved by suicide, as it is not a therapy or support group, rather an education session to learn how to support others.

If you or someone you know is in need of more urgent care, please contact:

Mates in Construction

Training as a tool to raise awareness about suicide

Starting with General Awareness Training, a worker becomes 'inducted'. Following GAT, volunteers can become Connectors, and some of those continue to become ASIST-trained workers. Surrounding these training levels is the MATES 24/7 support network via Field Officers and Case Manager site and phone support.

Building skills 
  • Raises awareness of suicide as a preventable problem
  • Builds stronger and more resilient workers
  • Connects workers to the best available help and support

Website

Welcome to the Rural Health Innovation Fund

Established in
December 2022

The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) is a new and exciting opportunity to drive health care improvements for country South Australians.

We are passionate about supporting rural communities by strengthening and encouraging innovative programs that will have a lasting impact.

The RHIF will create positive change through supporting innovative community-based programs that address the diverse health and wellbeing needs in the rural community. We strive to positively impact the lives of country South Australians now and into the future.

The RHIF has been made possible by Country SA PHN.

RHIF Grants

Enhancing the lives of country South Australians

Grant Information

We are excited to see the RHIF community expand. The initiatives supported through both grant rounds have made a significant positive impact in country South Australia. The wide range of applications for Round 2 in 2024 highlights the ongoing commitment to addressing the unique needs of our communities.

Round 2 has brought another wonderful opportunity to support communities in achieving their goals and enhancing the lives of country South Australians.

We look forward to building relationships and growing The Rural Health Innovation Fund. 

Want to know more?

We welcome your input and would love to hear from you. Contact the RHIF Coordinator or join the RHIF Facebook Group so that you can stay updated.

 

 

Round 2 Grant Recipients 2024-25

The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) is proud to announce the successful recipients of the 2024-25 Round 2 grants. These projects, characterised by their diversity and innovation, aim to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for regional South Australians.

A Place of Intergenerational Connection by Crystal Brook Kindergarten

(sponsored by Uniting Country SA) A vibrant outdoor space in Crystal Brook, featuring gardens, safe pathways, and unique seating with handmade mosaics from an awe-inspiring, connective 2022 art project. Located near Crystal Brook Hospital and Roseview Aged Care, this area fosters connections between residents, patients, and families, while celebrating the Nukunu people's cultural heritage. RHIF is excited to introduce this space, continuing over 120 years of support and fostering intergenerational bonds for rural South Australians.

The Mallee Arts and Wellness Program by The Pinnaroo Project Association Inc. (TPPAinc)

Founded in 2021, TPPAinc enhances the health and wellbeing of the Pinnaroo community through arts and cultural programs. The Mallee Arts and Wellness Program initiative will offer dynamic art and connection activities for community members, including those from CALD backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, the elderly, youth, and individuals facing isolation. Serving the towns of Parrakie, Geranium, Lameroo, Parilla, and Pinnaroo, this program aims to foster skill development, strengthen social bonds, and reduce isolation.

Empowering Mental Health Through Animals Initiative by Sanctuary on Eyre Inc. (SOE)

Founded eight years ago, SOE provide a haven for animals in need and foster connections with people facing mental health challenges. Thanks to their dedicated volunteers, and their bold innovative commitment, SOE has become a strong charitable organisation with a strong mission. With four acres near Tumby Bay, housing rescued birds, animals, and two therapy dogs, their motto is, "For the love and well-being of animals and people." The Empowering Mental Health Through Animals Initiative connects animals with individuals facing mental health challenges. Skilled staff are facilitating therapeutic visits to schools and aged care facilities, with a focus on Port Lincoln High School, Tumby Bay Area School, and Uringa Aged Care Service.

Regenerate Rural Women by Women Together Learning (WoTL)

WoTL empowers women in agribusiness across Australia through tailored programs and events, creating safe spaces for learning and support. Expanding to the Riverland in 2024 to uplift and empower local women, the Regenerate Rural Women (RRW) program helps women prioritise their health and well-being with tools for resilience, stress management, and personal growth. Join them in their transformative workshops, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities.

Second Beginnings initiative by iReach Rural Health

Formerly the Murray Mallee General Practice Network, iReach Rural Health have been providing friendly healthcare in the Murray Mallee region since 1995. Their services include psychological therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and chronic pain management. With headspace centres in Murray Bridge, Mount Barker, and a satellite site in Victor Harbor, they cater to all ages. Their passionate team, many of whom live in the community, foster meaningful connections. The RHIF-funded Second Beginnings initiative will support individuals with chronic health conditions, mental health, and addiction challenges. With fortnightly community cooking sessions and shared meals that promote connection and wellbeing, their new mobile coffee and food van will offer skill-building opportunities for meaningful employment.

SYP Sounds by The Southern York Peninsula (SYP) Community Hub Inc.

The SYP Community Hub Inc is an innovative not-for-profit responding to community needs and community-led ideas. We're excited to support SYP Sounds, a musical project connecting local musicians with the youth of Yorke Peninsula. Participants will share their stories through song, fostering creativity and community connection.  SYP Sounds bring healing and expression through music, aimed at helping to improve health and wellbeing through a magical and transformative journey!

Willaston Football Club

Grant recipient Willaston Football Club has been funded for three initiatives: a Job Ready Program, Real-Life Resilience Program, and empowering the community through engaging The Sammy D Foundation to deliver courses. The Willaston Football Club consists of 350 men’s and women’s players, 350 members, and 1,500 supporters. Their wellbeing programs include the Willaston Netball and Cricket Clubs, reaching approximately 1,455 players, members, supporters, and the broader community. In the club’s Job Ready Program, young people aged 12 to 14 can prepare for their first job with hands-on experience in the canteen and scoreboard management. Open to youth in Gawler and surrounding suburbs, this program will empower the community. Willaston FC will also present the Real-Life Resilience Program, holding community sessions focused on supporting mental health and providing tools to build resilience from a young age. Willaston FC will engage The Sammy D Foundation to deliver impactful courses on violence prevention and positive role modelling. These courses will be open for all ages.

Round 1 Grant Recipients 2023-24

Rural Health Innovation Fund proudly announced its successful inaugural grant round recipients.

The Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) was overwhelmed with the level of interest and the breadth and ideas in the applications received. We have been honoured to hear from people all over country South Australia and listen to the needs of our individual communities.

We were thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to support communities to achieve their goals and positively impact the lives of country South Australians.

Barunga Village

Focus on falls prevention program - supporting people across the Yorke, Mid North, and Barossa regions.

Diabetes SA

Type 2 diabetes awareness and screening program held at the Paskeville Field Day.

Hawker Community Development Board

Purchase of updated gym equipment and enablement of a virtual gym for online exercise.

Our Town Ceduna/Far West


Side X Side Mateship for Life - Community driven and led, lived experience men's mental fitness event.

Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service


Elders and community Heart Safety First community awareness campaign and purchase of crucial medical equipment including defibrillators.

Port Vincent Progress Association


Community health and wellbeing initiatives, the extension of weekly community exercise classes with additional equipment run by a trained, locally based coordinator.

Riverland Youth Theatre


Community arts and wellbeing festival to connect allied health practitioners with regional artists - focused on disability and health and wellbeing.

The Embrace Collective


“Activate by Embrace” regional community programs in Port Lincoln and Mount Gambier - youth focused events to boost body image and enhance physical and mental health.

Whyalla Men’s Shed

Improving health literacy and knowledge of local health and support services program via monthly men’s health and wellbeing meetings.

Acknowledgement

Rural Health Innovation Fund would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands across Australia and pay respects to the Elders past present and future. We recognise and respect the unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas, which continue to be important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living today.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

Flexible Funding

A national priority

Flexible funding enables Country SA PHN to commission services in response to the identified national priority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.


The range of services being commissioned by the Country SA PHN include:

  • Chronic Disease Management Services
  • Workforce Support and Capacity Building
  • Ngangkari Services
  • Health Navigation

Chronic Disease Management

Holistic management

Funding has been provided to some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to deliver a more holistic Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program within their communities.

The funding provides increased access to Allied Health Professionals and Specialist Services, additional staff to existing CDM teams to assist in the coordination of health services in chronic conditions and training and development of staff in these areas, as well as Ngangkari Services.

Service Providers include:

  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation
  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc.

Workforce Support

Increasing the quality of health care services

Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding is available to Aboriginal primary health care providers inclusive of Integrated Team Care Providers. Activities aim to:

  • Increase the participation of Aboriginal primary health care providers in professional development, inclusive of Integrated Team Care service providers
  • Increase access to culturally safe, comprehensive, and coordinated care
  • Increase capacity to provide quality services.
  • Enable best practice approach to delivery of care

Services who receive Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding change as according to the organisations communicated needs.

Ngangkari Services

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health

A holistic health framework

The activity aims to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health and the complex interplay between cultural, spiritual, physical, social and emotional health. This is targeted at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to provide Ngangkari Services as part of a holistic health framework. It is to support the clinical activities undertaken and can serve to improve participation and engagement in lifestyle programs and education that needs to be undertaken.

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc.
  • Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service Inc.
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc.
  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation

Other funded services

Service providers who have access to these services via other funding areas include:

  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation
  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc.

Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs

Supporting the Aboriginal community

Aboriginal Mental Health Services

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health services provide access to effective high-quality health care services in regional, rural and remote locations. This includes through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), wherever possible and appropriate, as well as through mainstream services delivering culturally appropriate primary health care.

This program enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access to mental health services that are joined up, integrated, culturally appropriate and safe, and designed to holistically meet the mental health and healing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the local level.

Read More

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc. (Riverland)
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc. (Murray Mallee)
  • Nganampa Health Council (APY Lands)
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (After-Hours – Coober Pedy)

Aboriginal Mental Health and AOD

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and AOD programs are designed to better support substance abuse services to identify and treat coinciding mental illness and substance abuse disorders (including those involving methamphetamine or ‘ice’) by greater service integration.

The program ensures culturally appropriate use of triage systems and processes to identify clients with mental illness and substance abuse disorders and where clients present with co-morbidities to integrated and coordinated care across these services.

Service providers
  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc.
  • Country and OUtback Health
  • Life without Barriers
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (After-Hours – Coober Pedy)

Health Navigation

Improving patient service navigation

The aim of the activity is to improve patient pathways of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in systematic discharge, referral and follow-up between hospital and primary health care services.

The objective of the activity is to develop a sustainable platform which identifies and addresses barriers to Aboriginal patient navigation through primary, secondary and tertiary health services.

Resources & Useful Links

Need support? Contact our Team

Contact Us
MBS Items

There is a list of MBS Items available for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and Primary Health Care Providers who deliver services to Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander people from the Department of Health. MBS Online also provides information on specific MBS items.

Online learning resources are also available:

Cultural Awareness Training

Cultural Awareness Training is available through your local service providers delivering the ITC program. Please contact your local provider to access this assistance.

Ways to improve culturally safe services and quality care

There are some things that can your Practice can do to start moving your Practice to one that is culturally responsive to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patient needs which have been completed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care will be updating the standards required of health care providers in 2018. In these standards, Improving Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People will be undertaken and will affect accreditation processes in the future. For more information please go to Improving care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

Overview: Guide to better care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consumers (Word 503KB)

Asking the Question Resources

As the first step in providing culturally safe care that is tailored to the needs of patients, you first must know whether your patients identify as being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander origin. You cannot tailor care if you do not know. To do this, there are resources dedicated to assist this process. The question must be asked in the exact same manner every single time and there are different ways that it could be implemented.  The strategies which are more suitable are largely dependent on your local area and your own practice context.

Indigenous Health Project Officers in your region, can assist you with Quality Improvement cycles in identification as well as providing you with local strategies that are the most appropriate.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Clinical Care

Health Pathways South Australia is an online portal that provides general practitioners and other health professionals with easy access to comprehensive, evidence-based assessment, management, and localised referral resources for specific health conditions. HealthPathways is both a model of working; bringing together clinicians across the health care sectors to co-develop pathways, and a tangible product in the form of an online health information portal.

There are clinical care pathways that are different for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across a range of health topics. Some of these are currently located in Health Pathways South Australia and are localised to the South Australian context. Different aspects to management and referral pathways are highlighted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Specific Resources

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet is a specific Website that delivers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific health information and resources across Australia to support practice in the delivery of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is extensive.

It contains many resources that cover a range of topics either specific to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander context in South Australia, across other jurisdictions or nationally. If using resources that are either national or from other jurisdictions, please check with Indigenous Health Project Officers regarding local relevance of these resources.

Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, and migrant groups from developing countries, have a higher prevalence of ARF and RHD compared to the general Australian population. ARF and RHD are notifiable under the South Australian Public Health Act 2011. For more information about the State-wide RHD Control Program, please see the SA Health website New Australian Guidelines were released in February 2020 and are available from the RHDAustralia website along with a diagnosis calculator app and accredited E-learning modules.

Diabetes Resources

There are a range of resources available to support the provision of Diabetes care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

There is a current project to deliver South Australian Aboriginal specific film resources currently underway and will be included on completion.

Ear Health Resources

Ear Health is a public health issue within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population within Country South Australia. HealthPathways South Australia provides a range of relevant resources regarding Otitis Media for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

Flexible Funding

A national priority

Flexible funding enables Country SA PHN to commission services in response to the identified national priority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.


The range of services being commissioned by the Country SA PHN include:

  • Chronic Disease Management Services
  • Workforce Support and Capacity Building
  • Ngangkari Services
  • Health Navigation

Chronic Disease Management

Holistic management

Funding has been provided to some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to deliver a more holistic Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program within their communities.

The funding provides increased access to Allied Health Professionals and Specialist Services, additional staff to existing CDM teams to assist in the coordination of health services in chronic conditions and training and development of staff in these areas, as well as Ngangkari Services.

Service Providers include:

  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation
  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc.

Workforce Support

Increasing the quality of health care services

Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding is available to Aboriginal primary health care providers inclusive of Integrated Team Care Providers. Activities aim to:

  • Increase the participation of Aboriginal primary health care providers in professional development, inclusive of Integrated Team Care service providers
  • Increase access to culturally safe, comprehensive, and coordinated care
  • Increase capacity to provide quality services.
  • Enable best practice approach to delivery of care

Services who receive Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding change as according to the organisations communicated needs.

Ngangkari Services

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health

A holistic health framework

The activity aims to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health and the complex interplay between cultural, spiritual, physical, social and emotional health. This is targeted at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to provide Ngangkari Services as part of a holistic health framework. It is to support the clinical activities undertaken and can serve to improve participation and engagement in lifestyle programs and education that needs to be undertaken.

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc.
  • Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service Inc.
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc.
  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation

Other funded services

Service providers who have access to these services via other funding areas include:

  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation
  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc.

Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs

Supporting the Aboriginal community

Aboriginal Mental Health Services

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health services provide access to effective high-quality health care services in regional, rural and remote locations. This includes through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), wherever possible and appropriate, as well as through mainstream services delivering culturally appropriate primary health care.

This program enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access to mental health services that are joined up, integrated, culturally appropriate and safe, and designed to holistically meet the mental health and healing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the local level.

Read More

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc. (Riverland)
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc. (Murray Mallee)
  • Nganampa Health Council (APY Lands)
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (After-Hours – Coober Pedy)

Aboriginal Mental Health and AOD

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and AOD programs are designed to better support substance abuse services to identify and treat coinciding mental illness and substance abuse disorders (including those involving methamphetamine or ‘ice’) by greater service integration.

The program ensures culturally appropriate use of triage systems and processes to identify clients with mental illness and substance abuse disorders and where clients present with co-morbidities to integrated and coordinated care across these services.

Service providers
  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc.
  • Country and Outback Health
  • Life without Barriers
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (After-Hours – Coober Pedy)

Health navigation

Improving patient service navigation

The aim of the activity is to improve patient pathways of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in systematic discharge, referral and follow-up between hospital and primary health care services.

The objective of the activity is to develop a sustainable platform which identifies and addresses barriers to Aboriginal patient navigation through primary, secondary and tertiary health services.

Resources & Useful Links

Need support? Contact our Team

Contact Us
Ear Health Resources

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

A National health framework

Delivering better health care to the Aboriginal Community in SA

Social and Emotional Wellbeing

The current National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013-2023 delivered by the Department of Health guides all health activities in Australia. This is likely to significantly change post 2023 to be in line with the reforms in the National Partnership Agreement delivered in 2020. The Implementation Plan has also been provided to assist further in the implementation of these policies.

National Strategic Framework

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Mental Health and Social and Emotional Wellbeing 2017-2023

Download
Resources
Implementation Plans

Aboriginal Services

Supporting emotional and social wellbeing

There are multiple services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people being funded by Country SA PHN. The areas of funding include:

  • Integrated Team Care
  • Chronic Disease Management
  • Flexible Funding
  • Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs Funding

Services co-designed with the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health sector have a strong basis in the Social and Emotional Wellbeing perspective, where physical health, while a key concern, is not the only concern and multiple factors affect physical health.

Chronic Disease Consortium

Improved health & wellbeing

Country SA PHN is part of the South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium, which was established to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal South Australians by working together in the prevention and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic diseases.

The South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map for Action outlines the specific activities in which the partnership is striving toward.

SA Aboriginal Chronic Disease

Visit the SA Aboriginal Chronic Disease website for more information.

Visit Site
Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map
Download PDF

COVID vaccination recall program with video messages from First Nations community leaders

Five local South Australian community leaders have supported Country SA PHN by recording messages to support the community.

  • Steven Sumner,
  • Barry Johncock,
  • Uncle Terry Hartman,
  • Aunty Kaylene O’Loughlin
  • Lou Lou Brown

CSAPHN & Professional Research Bodies

Country SA PHN works closely with the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute in the connection between Aboriginal Health research and policy.

The Wardliparingga Aboriginal Research Theme provide invaluable information to support the strategic direction of Aboriginal health policy in country South Australia.

Country SA PHN is part of the South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium, which was established to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal South Australians by working together in the prevention and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic diseases.

The South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map for Action outlines the specific activities in which the partnership is striving toward. Aboriginal Health has a national policy framework that is delivered through the National Partnership Agreements between the Australian Government and the States and Territories of Australia. This agreement has a supporting National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013-2023 delivered by the Department of Health and guides all health activities in Australia.

Read More
  • Look at the implications of research and what that may mean to services on the ground.
  • Look at areas where there are known gaps
  • Look at past and present researched responses to ensure gaps within the primary health care sector being addressed accordingly.

Ensure research outcomes are applied within an Aboriginal context encompassing self-management and self-determination within a holistic health framework.

Contact

For further information on Aboriginal Health, please contact the team.

Contact Us

Flexible Funding

A national priority

Flexible funding enables Country SA PHN to commission services in response to the identified national priority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.

The range of services being commissioned by the Country SA PHN include:

  • Chronic Disease Management Services
  • Workforce Support and Capacity Building
  • Ngangkari Services
  • Health Navigation

Chronic Disease Management

Holistic management

Funding has been provided to some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to deliver a more holistic Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program within their communities.

The funding provides increased access to Allied Health Professionals and Specialist Services, additional staff to existing CDM teams to assist in the coordination of health services in chronic conditions and training and development of staff in these areas, as well as Ngangkari Services.

Service Providers include:

  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation
  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc.

Workforce Support

Increasing the quality of health care services

Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding is available to Aboriginal primary health care providers inclusive of Integrated Team Care Providers. Activities aim to:

  • Increase the participation of Aboriginal primary health care providers in professional development, inclusive of Integrated Team Care service providers
  • Increase access to culturally safe, comprehensive, and coordinated care
  • Increase capacity to provide quality services.
  • Enable best practice approach to delivery of care

Services who receive Workforce Support and Capacity Building funding change as according to the organisations communicated needs.

For more information go to our Digital Health and Practice Support pages.

Service Providers
  • Bamagee Aboriginal Corporation
  • FocusOne Health
  • Pika Wiya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
  • Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service
  • Sonder
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

Ngangkari Services

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health

A holistic health framework

The activity aims to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander understandings of health and the complex interplay between cultural, spiritual, physical, social and emotional health. This is targeted at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to provide Ngangkari Services as part of a holistic health framework. It is to support the clinical activities undertaken and can serve to improve participation and engagement in lifestyle programs and education that needs to be undertaken.

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc.
  • Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service Inc.
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc.
  • Yadu Health Aboriginal Corporation

Other funded services

Service providers who have access to these services via other funding areas include:

  • Oak Valley Health Service
  • Tullawon Health Service Inc.
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs

Supporting the Aboriginal community

Aboriginal Mental Health Services

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health services provide access to effective high-quality health care services in regional, rural and remote locations. This includes through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), wherever possible and appropriate, as well as through mainstream services delivering culturally appropriate primary health care.

This program enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access to mental health services that are joined up, integrated, culturally appropriate and safe, and designed to holistically meet the mental health and healing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the local level.

Read More

Service providers

  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc. (Riverland)
  • Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Inc. (Murray Mallee)
  • Nganampa Health Council (APY Lands)
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (After-Hours – Coober Pedy)

Aboriginal Mental Health and AOD

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and AOD programs are designed to better support substance abuse services to identify and treat coinciding mental illness and substance abuse disorders (including those involving methamphetamine or ‘ice’) by greater service integration.

The program ensures culturally appropriate use of triage systems and processes to identify clients with mental illness and substance abuse disorders and where clients present with co-morbidities to integrated and coordinated care across these services.

Service Providers

  • Aboriginal Drug & Alcohol Council SA
  • Aboriginal Sobriety Group Inc. (Riverland)
  • Country and Outback Health
  • Life Without Barriers
  • Pangula Mannamurna Inc. (South East)
  • Sonder
  • Umoona Tjutagku Health Service Aboriginal Corporation

Health navigation

Improving patient service navigation

The aim of the activity is to improve patient pathways of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in systematic discharge, referral and follow-up between hospital and primary health care services.

The objective of the activity is to develop a sustainable platform which identifies and addresses barriers to Aboriginal patient navigation through primary, secondary and tertiary health services.

Resources & Useful Links

Need support? Contact our Team

Contact Us
MBS Items

There is a list of MBS Items available for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and Primary Health Care Providers who deliver services to Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander people from the Department of Health. MBS Online also provides information on specific MBS items.

Online learning resources are also available:

Cultural Awareness Training

Cultural Awareness Training is available through your local service providers delivering the ITC program. Please contact your local provider to access this assistance.

Ways to improve culturally safe services and quality care

There are some things that can your Practice can do to start moving your Practice to one that is culturally responsive to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patient needs which have been completed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care will be updating the standards required of health care providers in 2018. In these standards, Improving Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People will be undertaken and will affect accreditation processes in the future. For more information please go to Improving care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

Overview: Guide to better care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consumers (Word 503KB)

Asking the Question Resources

As the first step in providing culturally safe care that is tailored to the needs of patients, you first must know whether your patients identify as being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander origin. You cannot tailor care if you do not know. To do this, there are resources dedicated to assist this process. The question must be asked in the exact same manner every single time and there are different ways that it could be implemented.  The strategies which are more suitable are largely dependent on your local area and your own practice context.

Indigenous Health Project Officers in your region, can assist you with Quality Improvement cycles in identification as well as providing you with local strategies that are the most appropriate.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Clinical Care

Health Pathways South Australia is an online portal that provides general practitioners and other health professionals with easy access to comprehensive, evidence-based assessment, management, and localised referral resources for specific health conditions. HealthPathways is both a model of working; bringing together clinicians across the health care sectors to co-develop pathways, and a tangible product in the form of an online health information portal.

There are clinical care pathways that are different for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across a range of health topics. Some of these are currently located in Health Pathways South Australia and are localised to the South Australian context. Different aspects to management and referral pathways are highlighted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Specific Resources

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet is a specific Website that delivers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific health information and resources across Australia to support practice in the delivery of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is extensive.

It contains many resources that cover a range of topics either specific to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander context in South Australia, across other jurisdictions or nationally. If using resources that are either national or from other jurisdictions, please check with Indigenous Health Project Officers regarding local relevance of these resources.

Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, and migrant groups from developing countries, have a higher prevalence of ARF and RHD compared to the general Australian population. ARF and RHD are notifiable under the South Australian Public Health Act 2011. For more information about the State-wide RHD Control Program, please see the SA Health website New Australian Guidelines were released in February 2020 and are available from the RHDAustralia website along with a diagnosis calculator app and accredited E-learning modules.

Diabetes Resources

There are a range of resources available to support the provision of Diabetes care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

There is a current project to deliver South Australian Aboriginal specific film resources currently underway and will be included on completion.

Ear Health Resources

Ear Health is a public health issue within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population within Country South Australia. HealthPathways South Australia provides a range of relevant resources regarding Otitis Media for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

A National health framework

Delivering better health care to the Aboriginal Community in SA

Social and Emotional Wellbeing

The current National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013-2023 delivered by the Department of Health guides all health activities in Australia. This is likely to significantly change post 2023 to be in line with the reforms in the National Partnership Agreement delivered in 2020. The Implementation Plan has also been provided to assist further in the implementation of these policies.

National Strategic Framework

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Mental Health and Social and Emotional Wellbeing 2017-2023

Download
Resources
Implementation Plans

Aboriginal Services

Supporting emotional and social wellbeing

There are multiple services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people being funded by Country SA PHN. The areas of funding include:

  • Integrated Team Care
  • Flexible Funding
  • Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs Funding

Services co-designed with the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health sector have a strong basis in the Social and Emotional Wellbeing perspective, where physical health, while a key concern, is not the only concern and multiple factors affect physical health.

Contact Us

Chronic Disease Consortium

Improved health & wellbeing

Country SA PHN is part of the South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium, which was established to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal South Australians by working together in the prevention and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic diseases.

The South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map for Action outlines the specific activities in which the partnership is striving toward.

SA Aboriginal Chronic Disease

Visit the SA Aboriginal Chronic Disease website for more information.

Visit Site
Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map
Download PDF

COVID vaccination recall program with video messages from First Nations community leaders

Provide your patients with culturally appropriate information about COVID vaccination from trusted community leaders within your region.

Country SA PHN and Healthily with the use of GoShare Plus will use CAT4 to identify eligible patients to provide General Practices and Aboriginal Medical Services the opportunity to convey culturally appropriate video messages on the importance of being vaccinated against COVID-19.

CSAPHN & Professional Research Bodies

Country SA PHN works closely with the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute in the connection between Aboriginal Health research and policy.

The Wardliparingga Aboriginal Research Theme provide invaluable information to support the strategic direction of Aboriginal health policy in country South Australia.

Country SA PHN is part of the South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium, which was established to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal South Australians by working together in the prevention and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic diseases.

The South Australian Aboriginal Chronic Disease Consortium Road Map for Action outlines the specific activities in which the partnership is striving toward. Aboriginal Health has a national policy framework that is delivered through the National Partnership Agreements between the Australian Government and the States and Territories of Australia. This agreement has a supporting National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013-2023 delivered by the Department of Health and guides all health activities in Australia.

Read More
  • Look at the implications of research and what that may mean to services on the ground.
  • Look at areas where there are known gaps
  • Look at past and present researched responses to ensure gaps within the primary health care sector being addressed accordingly

Ensure research outcomes are applied within an Aboriginal context encompassing self-management and self-determination within a holistic health framework.

Contact

For further information on Aboriginal Health, please contact the team.

Contact Us