Pilbara Aboriginal Health Alliance (PAHA) and Rio Tinto have announced a partnership aimed at enhancing health services for Aboriginal communities in the Pilbara region. The collaboration involves a financial commitment of A$5 million from Rio Tinto over five years to support PAHA’s mission of improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The first initiative under this partnership is the establishment of a dialysis unit in Tom Price. This project will be supported by funds from Rio Tinto, providing transport, accommodation, and additional support for patients. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has funded the construction of this facility, which is set to open in late 2026.
Ashley Councillor, CEO of PAHA, stated: “This partnership is a significant step toward achieving better health outcomes for Aboriginal People in the Pilbara.” Councillor emphasized the importance of community-led solutions that are culturally appropriate and focused on prevention and early intervention.
The agreement also aims to expand primary healthcare services tailored to cultural needs within the Shire of Ashburton. Preventative health programs will be introduced to address chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes among Aboriginal people.
Richard Cohen, Managing Director Rail, Port and Core Services at Rio Tinto, expressed commitment to addressing essential health service gaps: “We’re pleased to support PAHA to deliver Aboriginal-led health programs that will have lasting benefits.”
Traditional Owners involved with the Regional Implementation Committee will advise on further projects throughout this five-year partnership. These initiatives will emphasize cultural governance and local leadership.
PAHA collaborates with three regional Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations—Mawarnkarra Health Service, Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, and Wirraka Maya Health Service—to enhance healthcare access and resources across the Pilbara region.
