Jabiru Health Centre complete
The Jabiru Health Centre is now complete with operations set to commence from 2 September with primary healthcare service delivery undertaken by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO), Red Lily Health Board Aboriginal Corporation.
As the main health provider in Kakadu National Park, the health centre will deliver care for all residents, as well as tourists.
The new purpose-built health centre will increase access to medical services in the region, including the expansion of renal dialysis services for people living in West Arnhem.
The new health centre includes eight consulting suites including paediatric rooms, four multi-purpose allied health examination rooms, a four-chair renal room and a dental surgery which includes sterilisation and work rooms, and dedicated separate waiting areas for men and women.
Specialised facilities include an audiology consulting room with a hearing booth, an X-ray room, a medication store and private pharmacy, a four-berth morgue with a viewing area and an external, culturally appropriate ceremony area adjacent to the morgue.
There will also be emergency capabilities at the health centre, such as a drive through ambulance bay and an emergency department with two resuscitation bays.
The Labor Government has invested $135 million as part of the Jabiru Futures Package to repurpose Jabiru from mining to a tourism and services hub for West Arnhem in accordance with the vision of Traditional Owners. Minister for Health Selena Uibo said, “We invested $20 million in the Jabiru Health Centre because Territorians deserve the best health care, no matter where they live.
“This is wonderful news for the community of Jabiru and surrounding Kakadu homelands. It is through good infrastructure in remote communities, listening to community needs and working with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations like Red Lily that our Territory Labor Government supports better health outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians for years to come.
Member for Arafura Manuel Brown said, “The completion of the Jabiru Health Centre will improve health services around the region, with renal, paediatrics and dental capacities and culturally appropriate waiting areas.
“As local member, I know how much the community is excited for the opening of new health centre and transfer of services to Red Lily. Working with community is vital for better health outcomes in community.”
Chair of Red Lily Health Board June Nadjamerrek said, “Red Lily Health Board welcome the opportunity to provide culturally-appropriate health care from a ‘purpose-built’ facility in Jabiru.
“We are pleased that local people and Aboriginal Corporations were consulted in the design of the new Health Centre in addressing the specific needs in renal and child health care as well as ensuring enhanced morgue and mourning facilities on site.
“Red Lily thank the Northern Territory Government for their commitment to community control and local decision-making.”