A Lasting Legacy – Honoring Pat Turner AM in Her Retirement
An Arrernte and Gurdanji woman, Pat has dedicated her life to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people not only have a voice in the decisions that affect our communities, but the authority and resources to lead them. In her ten years with NACCHO, Pat has significantly strengthened the national standing of community-controlled health. She ensured governments could not ignore what Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) have long demonstrated, that when care is designed, governed and delivered by community it delivers better outcomes. This model is now widely accepted as best practice, for all people of all backgrounds.
AHCSA acknowledges that Pat’s legacy is not measured only in policy reform or funding allocation, but in structural change that will have long lasting impact. Pat strengthened relationships between the sector and governments, elevated community-control nationally, and reinforced the fundamental truth that self-determination is the foundational driver of health equity.
On behalf of the community-controlled health sector in South Australia, AHCSA extends our deepest gratitude to Pat Turner for her extraordinary service, fearless advocacy and lasting contribution. Pat’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire us as we carry forward community-control, ensuring equity and self-determination for our communities – Aboriginal health in Aboriginal hands.
AHCSA warmly acknowledges the appointment of Dawn Casey PSM FAHA as NACCHO’s incoming CEO. A Tagalaka traditional owner with extensive experience across community-control and government systems, as a renowned national leader Dawn guides NACCHO with strength, courage and a deep understanding of not only our sector, but how to leverage the very systems that embed disadvantage. AHCSA looks forward to continuing to work closely with NACCHO under Dawn’s leadership as we work together to advance the priorities of our communities.
As we celebrate 25 years of Self-Determination, we honour the courage, vision, and dedication of many trailblazers.
AHCSA has partnered with Nunkuwarrin Yunti to support Closing the Gap Day, reaffirming a shared commitment to Aboriginal self-determination and culturally strong, community-led solutions.
This milestone marked the beginning of AHCSA as a truly community-controlled organisation, governed by a Board of Directors drawn from Aboriginal Community Controlled Health and Aboriginal Health Advisory Committees across South Australia.
