Access to health services is a big issue for our Aboriginal communities in the Pilbara. That’s why BHP is supporting the newly established Pilbara Aboriginal Health Alliance.

The Alliance brings together three member organisations - Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) (Newman), Wirraka Maya Health Service (Port Hedland) and Mawarnkarra Health Service (Roebourne and Karratha) – to create a strong united voice for Indigenous healthcare.

PAHA will use its collective expertise and community connections to break down barriers and drive improvements in the health and resilience of Aboriginal people living in the Pilbara now and into the future.

Wirraka Maya Health Service, Chief Executive Officer, June Councillor, said: “This funding will make a huge difference and support PAHA and its goal to drive real improvements in the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people in the Pilbara".

“It will help us identify, develop, and roll out the Indigenous health services that will have the greatest impact on our communities in Newman, Port Hedland, Roebourne and Karratha.

“PAHA will also advocate for an increase in health programs and services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the Pilbara.”

BHP Manager Communities, Chris Cottier, said: “Our $2.1 million partnership with PAHA will help to transform how Indigenous health services are provided in the Pilbara, through the establishment of new services and by creating a strong voice for Indigenous health care.”