A new $7.9 million clinic in the Perth suburb of Midland has opened, expanding culturally safe health care for Aboriginal people as demand grows in Boorloo's east.
Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service will open the purpose-built facility, funded through the Federal Government's Closing the Gap Plan with support from the Minderoo Foundation.
More than doubling the size of the existing site, the clinic expands from five to 10 consulting rooms alongside new treatment areas, social and emotional wellbeing spaces and future dental suites.
Rapid population growth is driving demand, with the Aboriginal population in the City of Swan approaching 4,900 people, more than three times the metropolitan average proportion.
Current services see about 50 patients each day and deliver close to 12,000 episodes of care annually, while turning away an average of 10 patients daily due to limited space.
This increase in demand has highlighted the need for expanded facilities.
Noongar man and Derbarl Yerrigan chairperson, Nathan Riley, said the new clinic responds to growing pressure on services.
"We are seeing increasing demand for services, particularly around chronic disease and social and emotional wellbeing, and our existing clinic has simply not been able to keep up," Mr Riley said.
"This new Midland clinic is about breaking down the barriers to accessing care and providing accessible, culturally secure, wrap-around care that supports people at every stage of life."
A full-circle health hub will bring together primary care, specialist services and wellbeing support in one location.
Available services include GP care, chronic disease management, preventive health checks, immunisations, pathology, podiatry, eye health and visiting specialists, with plans to expand into dental services.
Focus remains on prevention and early intervention to reduce pressure on tertiary services, with culturally safe care identified as a key driver of engagement and outcomes.
"We know that when people feel safe, respected and understood, they are more likely to access care earlier and more often," Mr Riley said.
"Our model of care is grounded in culture, connection and community. That's what drives better health outcomes."
Community consultation involving Elders, staff and local voices shaped the clinic's design.
Design features include natural materials, Noongar language signage, a yarning circle in the reception area and family-friendly spaces aimed at creating a welcoming environment.
Situated in Midland, traditionally known as Mandjanup, the site holds cultural significance for Noongar people as a place of gathering and connection.
Beyond health services, the facility is intended to function as a community space.
"This clinic is more than a building - it's a place where our community can come together, feel safe and receive the care they need," Mr Riley said.
"It reflects what culturally secure, community-led health care should look like."
Expanded capacity is expected to reduce unmet demand and allow more Aboriginal families to access services closer to home.
