Our History

Prior to 2000, the Medical Service was a Primary Health Post, staffed and funded by the Griffith Community Health Centre and NSW Department of Health. As a result of this arrangement, the concept of community control’ was somewhat limited.

The community resolved to make the transition from a Health Post to an Aboriginal Medical Service in 1999, in line with the aspirations for self-determination and self-management.

In July 2001, the first Chief Executive Officer of the Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service commenced duties. The organisation was a community controlled health service in name only, having no resources to provide primary health care services to the Aboriginal communities within the region.

Finally in May 2004, the Aboriginal Medical Service received funding from the Department of Health & Ageing. Initial funding was to employ a Practice Administrator, General Practitioner and part time Finance Officer.