CHILD PROTECTION GRANT FOR GOLDFIELDS HEALING SERVICE

BY ASAD KHAN AND MARLI RYAN

The Cook Labor Government has announced a $250,000 grant to support the development of a new Goldfields Indigenous Healing Service in Kalgoorlie–Boulder.

The one-year grant, awarded to Ngunytju Tjitji Pirni Aboriginal Corporation, will fund community engagement and the design of a culturally grounded, place-based model that draws on traditional Aboriginal healing practices.

SUPPORTING CHILDREN IMPACTED BY ABUSE

The proposed service aims to assist children and young people affected by abuse, including child sexual abuse, by creating programs focused on healing, resilience, and cultural strength.

By working closely with local families and Elders, the model will reflect community priorities and embed Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing into every stage of development.

GOVERNMENT BACKING FOR ABORIGINAL-LED APPROACHES

WA Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski said the funding reflects the government’s commitment to Aboriginal-led solutions in child safety and wellbeing.

“It’s a one-year grant to undertake community engagement and to determine the viability of a Kalgoorlie–Boulder Indigenous Healing Service,” she told Ngaarda Media.

“The Indigenous Healing Service model is really important for Aboriginal communities — it’s about providing services in a culturally sensitive and appropriate way.”

A STEP TOWARDS CULTURAL HEALING

The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve outcomes for Aboriginal children and families by strengthening local capacity and creating spaces for culturally informed care.

If successful, the Kalgoorlie–Boulder model could pave the way for similar Indigenous healing services across Western Australia.

Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Marli Ryan speak with Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski: