Colonisation has wrought unacceptable health and social circumstances for communities. The need for strengths-based initiatives that tailor services according to local knowledges is well accepted, yet few studies have evaluated self-determined strategies to redress the social determinants of health. 

This article describes a research approach where principles of Indigenous methodology guide application of implementation science methods to generate, implement and evaluate local solutions from the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

Key points

• The co-design phase collected critical insights regarding community needs, challenges and service gaps, and identified shortfalls in local strategic policy.
• Partnerships with local communities and service organisations are paramount.
• A co-designed theory of systems change articulates mechanisms to strengthen policy, optimise the health and social service system, and empower and connect communities.
• A developmental approach to the implementation and evaluation of individual, community and service system initiatives will generate new evidence regarding efforts to tackle social factors and promote wellbeing.