The Royal Australian Air Force is celebrating a decade of enhancing healthcare and education for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through Exercise Kummundoo.
The program, funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, creates opportunities for members of the Air Force to deploy into unique environments to assist Indigenous communities.
Supporting efforts to close the gap, the program provides essential dental and health services to remote Indigenous communities.
Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service chief executive officer, Mairy Baird, said the effects of Exercise Kummundoo on her community in the East Kimbeley have been incredible.
"It's not just about providing healthcare," Ms Baird said.
"It's about building relationships, fostering trust and empowering our people to take charge of their health."
Flight Lieutenant Yuen Dieu, one of this year's Air Force dentists, said working in remote Western Australian communities has given her invaluable experience and a deep appreciation for the challenges people face in accessing healthcare.
"When patients hug you with heartfelt gratitude for relieving their pain, it's incredibly rewarding to know you've made a positive impact on their lives," Flight Lieutenant Dieu said.
The Air Force says Exercise Kummundoo has not only offered medical assistance but has created long-lasting relationships.
Air Force Indigenous Liaison Officer Flight Lieutenant Sarah Woods said Exercise Kummundoo has been instrumental in fostering trust and building lasting relationships with local Indigenous communities.
"By collaborating with Aboriginal health workers, the initiative has strengthened partnerships that address critical healthcare needs, ensuring equitable access to essential services," Flight Lieutenant Woods said.
The Air Force says it is striving to be an employer of choice for Indigenous Australians following "steady and encouraging growth" Indigenous representation within the Air Force over the past decade.
