The Ngalkanbuy Wellness Centre in Galiwin'ku is set to undergo a major refurbishment, boosting vital health services in remote East Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
A $4.8 million investment from the Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, and the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation has been matched by the federal government — through the Aboriginal Benefits Account — to improve health outcomes for Yolŋu families.
The Centre plays a central role in the Galiwin'ku community, offering National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) support, aged care, renal treatment through Purple House, and a range of public health services.
It also hosts Miwatj's Marrtjin limurr rrambaŋin program, which helps over 200 Yolŋu people reduce their risk of diabetes through regular health checks and community-led support.
Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the government is "proud" to back the refurbishment, which will allow Yolŋu families to receive care while staying on Country.
"The Ngalkanbuy Wellness Centre is a special place, and these changes will help it grow stronger for the future," Senator McCarthy said. "Being close to home surrounded by culture and community, makes a big difference to people's health and wellbeing."
Special Envoy for Remote Communities Marion Scrymgour said the Labor government is committed to responding to local voices.
"Together with the Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, we have secured this crucial funding for Ngalkanbuy Wellness Centre in Galiwin'ku," she said. "Upgrading infrastructure and services of our remote communities is critical to improving the overall health and safety of our people."
Concerns about the "crumbling" condition of some remote health services in the NT have been raised in recent years. A 2024 survey by the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance NT (AMSANT) found that many services lacked the resources needed to safely and effectively care for their communities. Some clinics reported patients being treated in corridors, and access was often compromised by poor road and airstrip conditions.
More than three-quarters of ACCHOs said the poor conditions had a detrimental impact on their recruitment ability and said there were concerns they'll not be equipped to meet demand in the future without improved facilities.
"As a baseline, we need to provide infrastructure and housing that is fit for purpose and allows staff to both do their jobs and live in facilities that are safe and appropriate. At the moment, we simply cannot offer that, to the detriment of the staff and communities who rely on those services," AMSANT chief executive John Paterson said last year.
The Ngalkanbuy upgrades will address some of these challenges by doubling the capacity of the renal unit from two to four beds, and improving overall safety, access, and functionality. Renovations will include asbestos removal, roof repairs, new windows and doors, upgraded wet areas, improved air conditioning and lighting, enhanced security, and landscaping.
Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health Rebecca White said the upgrades are part of the government's commitment to Closing the Gap, in partnership with First Nations communities.
"It makes a big difference to have these services available right here in the community, rather than having to travel, which can make treatment difficult to maintain. The upgrades to this centre will mean more people have access to high-quality care close to home," she said.
"As a Government, we will continue to listen to communities and remain committed to delivering the infrastructure and services they need, where they need it."
