This article details services that have dedicated resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and carers play a vital role in nurturing the next generation and preserving cultural heritage. By acknowledging and addressing unique challenges, utilising available resources, and fostering a supportive and culturally rich environment, families can thrive and build a strong, prosperous future while honouring their traditions and identity.
To see the full list of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health/medical services by state visit the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet here.
The page includes a map of services operating across all states and territories. Services include members of state and territory peak bodies as well as the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), the peak body representing ACCHS across Australia.
Additional Services by State
New South Wales
NSW Health has Local Health Districts that provide specialist care and support for Aboriginal Peoples and Communities through the Aboriginal Health Unit and specialist support roles across the Health District. The Australian Government also provide specialist support services through Medicare and Centrelink's Indigenous call centre on 1800 136 380.
The Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS), based in Redfern NSW, provides culturally appropriate community based health services including General Practitioners, dental, early childhood nurses and National Immunisation Program and a range of allied health services. Due to Covid, they are currently operating as a telehealth service.
Victoria
The Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) offers indigenous child support services including Early Years Support, Family Support, and Children's Services and Out-Of-Home Care Support. Find out more information about these services here.
Queensland
Walking with Family ~ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Wellbeing Services QLD - visit here.
South Australia
The Wellbeing SA website offers a range of services and support networks that are culturally appropriate and respectful available to the South Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. The site also includes a directory of services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait families. Find out more here.
Western Australia
Aboriginal Community Support ~ Relationships Australia offers several programs specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families including counseling, education programs from Kidcare and the Newman Women's Empowerment Project. To find out more visit their website here.
Northern Territory
Browse the resources available to parents, carers and families through the Office of the Children’s Commissioner, including free counselling and support for parents and carers in the Northern Territory and QLD through Parentline.
Access the resources here
Contact Parentline on 1300 301 300
Tasmania
Take a virtual tour of the Aboriginal Health Services available for families through the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre here.
Aboriginal preschools
There are a number of Aboriginal playgroups and pre-schools across NSW, the NSW Department of Education provides a list of these on their website.
The Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) can also provide assistance with support through the schooling years.
Mental health support
13YARN is run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters, it is a free and confidential service available 24/7 from any phone or pay phone.
Support for expecting and new dads
SMS4DeadlyDads sends short texts with tips, info and links to your phone just when you and your baby need it.
If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, you’re sent a unique set of messages designed especially for First Nations dads.
The messages help dads
- connect with their bub
- support mum
- and look after themselves
You can sign up online by entering your mobile number and your baby’s due or actual date of birth.
It’s FREE – and dads from all around Australia can join up
Links and resources
In addition, Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities have access to a range of culturally specific support services.
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