deadly practice

Going above and beyond to keep families together

This Deadly Practice showcases the dedication to families and communities by South Coast Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation, an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO). They go above and beyond to create positive impacts and outcomes for families within their communities.

This Deadly Practice focuses on:

Shining a light on Deadly Practice at the South Coast Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation

The South Coast Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) commenced formal operations in Nowra in 1982. Determined to address the gap in health services, and establish opportunities for people in the local Aboriginal community to access appropriate health services in a culturally safe space, Aunty Jane and the community members formed a steering committee and set out to establish a standalone Aboriginal Medical Service in Nowra. To do this, they sought out support from the already established, innovative and effective Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service.

Throughout the years, the South Coast AMS faced many challenges to continue to grow and provide appropriate and consistent services. During the lean years when funding was limited—or there was no funding at all—staff (sometimes without wages) continued to deliver services voluntarily to the community. Their passion and determination to meet the health and wider cultural and support needs of community ensured community members were able to access consistent health services.

This Deadly Practice focuses on:

Interested in applying for Deadly Practices?

Deadly Practice is all about acknowledging and supporting every effort that contributes to the wellbeing and safety of our communities. Come join us and help make a lasting difference for our children, young people, and families.

AbSec know that strong partnerships with our communities are essential to creating real change for Aboriginal children and families.  If you have questions about Deadly Practice or want to explore how you can get involved, we’d love to hear from you. 

See our other Deadly Practices!

July 2025 Policy Roundup

NSW budget breakdown; new national reports on children protection in Australia; Aboriginal-led early childhood programs; and weaponisation of Child Support. 

AbSec welcomes New National Commissioner Sue-Anne Hunter

AbSec is delighted to congratulate Wurundjeri and Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman Adjunct Professor Sue-Anne Hunter on her appointment as Australia’s first National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.

New Office for Youth could lead to better engagement – if implemented effectively 

AbSec has welcomed the NSW Minister for Youth, Rose Jackson’s announcement of a brand new Office for Youth. In a letter to stakeholders, the Minister provided details of the Office, which will be led by the Advocate for Children and Young People.

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