The initiative aims to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities for First Nations people across the organisations’ shared catchment areas.
Njernda chief executive John Mitchell and REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu met on Thursday, March 19 to finalise the agreement, marking the beginning of a closer working relationship between the two services.
Ms Manescu said the partnership would allow both organisations to better understand and respond to community needs over time.
“Over time they'll get to know what we can do, and we’ll get to know where the gaps might be where we can help,” she said.
“This is just the beginning, and to be able to do it on this special day is fantastic. I was so pleased.”
Currently, many First Nations people from the Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta clans travel to larger centres such as Bendigo and Echuca to access healthcare services.
With Rochester located between the two towns, REDHS is well placed to provide care closer to home for some community members.
The partnership is also expected to support more First Nations people to receive treatment on Country, reducing the need to travel to Melbourne due to limited local capacity.
Other benefits will also include seamless transitions from hospital to home-based support, culturally safe spaces and addressing the lack of access to connected services in remote areas.
Mr Mitchell said the partnership would deliver initiatives to strengthen care for First Nations communities.
“This collaborative agreement isn't just a piece of paper, it’s a commitment to cultural safety,” he said.
“The partnership specifically targets health but also includes ageing initiatives under the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
“This ensures that First Nations clients receive streamlined, high-quality support that respects their connection to country and community.”
Both organisations will now begin working together to identify priority health issues and develop strategies to address the needs of First Nations communities across the region.
