THIS year’s Closing the Gap is particularly significant for Kambu Health as the organisation celebrates 50 years of delivering culturally safe health and wellbeing services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the region.
Closing the Gap represents a national commitment to addressing any inequalities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in areas such as health, education, employment, and life expectancy.
Community-controlled organisations like Kambu Health play a critical role in achieving these targets by delivering services that are designed and led by the community itself.
Board Chair Allan Fisher said the organisation’s 50th anniversary provides an important moment to reflect on the progress made while recognising the work that still lies ahead.
“For 50 years, Kambu Health has stood beside our community, providing culturally safe care and advocating for better health outcomes for our people,” Mr Fisher said.
“Closing the Gap is not just a government strategy – it’s about empowering our communities to lead the solutions.
“Community-controlled organisations like Kambu Health are proof that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people lead the way, we create stronger, healthier futures for our families and generations to come.”
Throughout 2026, Kambu Health will celebrate its milestone anniversary with a series of activities recognising the Elders, community members, staff, and partners who have contributed to the organisation’s journey.
A highlight of the celebrations will be the Kambu Health Annual Gala Ball – 50th Anniversary, to be held on Saturday, August at the Ipswich Showgrounds.
The event will bring together community leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate five decades of community-controlled health care and to look forward to the next chapter for Kambu Health.
As Australia continues its Closing the Gap journey, Kambu Health remains committed to strengthening culture, empowering community, and improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
