Background: In 2016, the study entitled “Improving healthcare for Aboriginal Australians through effective engagement between community and health services” from Durey et al³¹ evaluated a unique strategy of community engagement between local Indigenous populations and health providers across five districts in Perth, Western Australia to improve local health service delivery for Indigenous Australians. This qualitative study aimed to identify whether this Indigenous community considered the community engagement strategy effective in identifying their health service needs, translating them to action by local health services and increasing their trust in health services.

Methods of community engagement: Community consultations were conducted to identify key health areas of concern for this community, to strengthen existing relationships and build the community’s trust through transparent communication. Forums were held with up to 80 Indigenous Australians attending area-wide gatherings to share, review and exchange information with the community, and using community feedback to improve practice. The Aboriginal Health Team (AHT) coordinated and brought together local Indigenous citizens, Indigenous community-controlled health services, representatives from the Department of Health Western Australia, public hospitals, mental health and community health services, and divisions of general practice. These interactions resulted in the establishment of five District Aboriginal Health Action Groups (DAHAGs) located within the organizational structure of the Department of Health in Western Australia.

Results: Findings from 60 participants suggested the engagement process was effective: it was driven and owned by the Indigenous Australian community, captured a broad range of views, and increased community participation in decisions about their health care. It built community capacity through regular community forums and established DAHAGs comprising local Indigenous community members and health service representatives who met quarterly, and were supported by the Aboriginal Health Team at the local Population Health Unit. Participants reported health services improved in community and hospital settings, leading to increased access and trust in local health services.

Conclusions: The evaluation concluded that this process of actively engaging the Indigenous community in decisions about their health care was a key element in improving local health services, increasing their trust and access to care.