Evidence shows that services delivered by Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) have a 50% greater impact than if those same interventions were delivered through mainstream health services. 

But an initial $150 million urgent investment is needed by 2030 in Victorian ACCO infrastructure to deliver safe and effective care and help close the widening gap in health outcomes for Aboriginal Victorians. Another $30 million of funding is needed each year over the next 5 years for Aboriginal Community-Controlled organisations to urgently repair existing infrastructure. 

Despite the state of infrastructure, the Victorian ACCO model delivers quality outcomes and early interventions that improve health and wellbeing and reduce pressure on other healthcare services. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to adhere to treatment plans when they are facilitated by ACCOs (96%) compared to mainstream health services (78%). 

This research report finds ACCOs could do much more if their infrastructure worked and recommends the Victorian Government act now to fund urgent repairs to make ACCO buildings safe, operational and efficient.