$5 MILLION PARTNERSHIP TO BOOST ABORIGINAL-LED HEALTH SERVICES IN THE PILBARA
BY ASAD KHAN
Funding to Support Local Health Priorities
A new partnership between the Pilbara Aboriginal Health Alliance (PAHA) and Rio Tinto will see A$5 million invested over five years to support Aboriginal-led health services across the Pilbara.
The agreement will help improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with a focus on community-led service delivery.
The first project to benefit is a new dialysis unit in Tom Price, where Rio Tinto’s funding will support patient transport, accommodation, and wraparound services.
The facility is scheduled to open in late 2026 and will operate six days a week, with capital works funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
Focus on Aboriginal Leadership in Health
PAHA Chief Executive Officer Ashley Councillor said the partnership marks a major milestone in shifting toward Aboriginal-led solutions in health care.
“This partnership is a significant step toward achieving better health outcomes for Aboriginal People in the Pilbara, grounded in listening to communities and working together to strengthen services that reflect local needs, priorities and aspirations,” Mr Councillor said.
The agreement also includes expansion of culturally appropriate primary health services in the Shire of Ashburton and prevention programs aimed at reducing chronic health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes.
Rio Tinto Managing Director of Rail, Port and Core Services Richard Cohen said the company recognises the health challenges faced by Pilbara communities and the importance of local input.
“We’re pleased to support PAHA to deliver Aboriginal-led health programs that will have lasting benefits and improve quality of life for people living in Pilbara communities,” he said.
Traditional Owners to Guide Future Projects
“Thank you to the Traditional Owners who provided their valuable guidance in creating this partnership as part of their role in the Regional Implementation Committee.”
Guidance on future projects will come from the PAHA Aboriginal Reference Council and Traditional Owner representatives on the Rio Tinto Regional Implementation Committee. All initiatives will be shaped by strong cultural governance and local leadership.