Congress pays tribute to “fierce and effective advocate” for the health of Aboriginal people

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress pays tribute to our sector’s most fierce and effective advocate, Ms Pat Turner AM, on the news of her retirement as CEO of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).

“Aunty Pat’s contribution to the Aboriginal community controlled sector has been significant,” Congress Chair Ebony Abbott-McCormack said. “She has continued the legacy of powerful Arrernte leaders, whose staunch advocacy is born from the struggles against colonisation and the extraordinary ability to rise above its devastating impact.”

“As the Aboriginal community controlled health service here on Arrernte Country, Congress expresses our deep gratitude to Aunty Pat’s determination in championing Aboriginal community control as the most effective model for improving health outcomes for our people and communities.”

“Aunty Pat played a crucial role in leading the much-needed reforms to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap,” Ms Abbott-McCormack continued. “Through her leadership, the focus of Closing the Gap shifted to ensure the strengthening of Aboriginal community control became central to the agreement.”

“Aboriginal community controlled health services are in a stronger place now than we were a decade ago, and Aunty Pat has been instrumental in driving these improvements.

“Her leadership will continue to shape progress for Aboriginal people for years to come.”