In recognition of the growing number of pharmacists working in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) have hosted the first ACCHO Special Interest Group (SIG) Committee meeting.

The inaugural meeting took place at the NACCHO annual conference on Wednesday 1 November in Canberra. Committee members consist of pharmacist representatives from every State and Territory who will provide peer support, advocacy and input into key medicines-related policy items for NACCHO and PSA.

PSA National President Dr Shane Jackson said the group’s authoritative knowledge will contribute to
the development of PSA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service Pharmacist Career Pathway.

“The Committee plays a valuable role in supporting pharmacists working in ACCHOs, particularly those in rural and remote areas,” Dr Jackson said.

“Committee members are working to encourage the growth of this career path with a shared commitment to embedding pharmacists in ACCHOs nationally.”

NACCHO Director of Medicines Policy and Programs Mike Stephens said: “It’s really satisfying to have seen this network grow organically over the last few years. The Committee’s collective expertise will be invaluable for informing policy in our sector and there is a real opportunity for the sharing and networking to grow and to add value to each member’s respective health organisation.”

Media Contacts:

Brad Watts PSA Executive Director, Communications 0487 922 176

Julian Fitzgerald NACCHO Communications Manager 0413 982 224