Policy, research and advocacy
Using evidence, community voices and partnerships to shift policy and systems for better Aboriginal health
Policy and advocacy are central to AMSANT’s role in strengthening Aboriginal community controlled health services (ACCHSs) across the Northern Territory (NT). We work alongside our members, communities, governments, researchers and partners to shape policy, generate evidence and advocate for system reform that supports community control, equity and better health outcomes.
Our policy, research and advocacy team focuses on elevating Aboriginal voices, translating community priorities into influence at local, Territory and national levels, and ensuring decisions that affect Aboriginal health are informed by evidence, lived experience and cultural authority.
Through research, analysis and strategic engagement, the AMSANT policy, research and advocacy team works to drive change that is accountable to communities and responsive to their needs. We bring together policy analysis, research partnerships, submissions and advocacy so that decisions about health, funding and services are guided by Aboriginal voices, community control and strong evidence.
What we do
Policy and advocacy
- Develop policy positions and submissions on key issues affecting Aboriginal health, from primary health care and workforce to housing, justice, disability and family violence.
- Lead advocacy with governments and partners, including through forums such as the Northern Territory Aboriginal Health Forum (NTAHF) and national policy processes.
- Monitor policy and legislative change, analysing impacts on ACCHSs and the communities they serve, and translating complex reforms into practical information for services.
Research
- Support and coordinate research and evaluation, working with members and research partners to generate evidence that strengthens community-controlled primary health care.
Our focus areas
Guided by community control and the principles of Aboriginal comprehensive primary health care, the team’s work spans:
- community-controlled primary health care funding and system design.
- workforce, training and leadership for the ACCHS sector.
- social and cultural determinants of health, including housing, racism, discrimination, justice, disability and family violence.
- Mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and social and emotional wellbeing.
- Digital health, data, evaluation and accountability.
- National agreements and reforms, including closing the gap and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)-related policy.
How we work with member services
- Talk with services to understand on-the-ground issues, gaps and solutions
- Coordinate member input into submissions, consultations and high-level forums
- Provide policy briefings and updates on reforms that affect ACCHSs
- Share tools, evidence summaries and resources that ACCHSs can use in their own advocacy and planning.
Partnerships and alliances
The policy, research and advocacy team works closely with:
- AMSANT member services and their directors
- Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory Aboriginal Corporation (APO NT) and other Aboriginal peak bodies
- the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and state and territory affiliate peak organisations
- government agencies at the Northern Territory and national level, research institutes and universities, including the Lowitja Institute and other partners in Aboriginal health research.
Resources
- Policy statements and position papers
- Submissions to government inquiries and reviews
- Research reports and evaluation summaries
- AMSANT’s strategy 2025-2028 and major priorities.
Get in touch
To discuss policy issues, research partnerships or advocacy priorities, or to share emerging issues, please contact the policy, research and advocacy team.