The ACT’s peak Indigenous health service has received $1.3 million from the territory Government to build four new clinic rooms and a bigger waiting area.
The Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service is the only Indigenous-run health service in the territory.
It has been under increasing demand since it opened its doors 27 years ago, and now has more than 6,000 clients.
Health Minister Simon Corbell made the funding announcement during NAIDOC week celebrations in Tuggeranong in Canberra’s south.
“This is one of the most successful providers in our city,” Mr Corbell said.
“It meets the particular needs of Indigenous Canberrans… It’s a place to connect as well as a place to get the care they need.”
Mr Corbell said the specialised service offered by Winnunga made it unique and important to the capital.
“These are often people who just won’t seek support or care in the more mainstream health services, and the reason for that is it’s about trusted relationships,” he said.
“It’s about working with and being cared for by other Aboriginal people and that’s why Winnunga’s so successful.”
Winnunga chief executive Julie Tongs said the centre was about more than just medical health.
“It is much bigger than that,” she said.
“Here, we look after not only the physical wellbeing, but also the social, emotional, cultural and spiritual wellbeing of our people.”
The extensions and building works are expected to be completed in mid to late 2016.