Yesterday, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) marked a significant step forward in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health by signing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the NACCHO offices on Ngunnawal and Ngambri lands in Canberra.
This partnership, rooted in respect, self-determination, and a shared vision for stronger communities, will see the Air Force and NACCHO continue to work side by side in supporting health and well-being across the country.
Central to this partnership is Exercise Kummundoo, a unique initiative that enables Air Force personnel to deploy into diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Under the guidance of local leaders, Air Force teams support community-led health initiatives, assist with essential infrastructure, and deepen their understanding of the strength, resilience, and leadership within community. This collaboration not only brings much-needed resources into remote areas but also fosters mutual learning and lasting relationships, ensuring that health solutions are shaped and led by those who know community best.
Reflecting on the significance of the partnership, NACCHO Board Chair Donnella Mills said:
“This partnership is about walking together in genuine collaboration to support healthier futures for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Through Exercise Kummundoo and ongoing cooperation, we recognise the value of sharing knowledge, building capability, and respecting the strengths and leadership within community.
We also acknowledge the deep contributions and sacrifices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who have served their communities, their country, and the Air Force with distinction. Today’s signing stands on the shoulders of their service and renews our shared commitment to a future led by community, culture, and respect.”
The Royal Australian Air Force, represented at the signing by Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM, also affirmed the enduring value of this partnership:
“The Royal Australian Air Force is proud to stand alongside NACCHO in renewing our commitment to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Exercise Kummundoo exemplifies the importance of partnership, learning, and respect, as Air Force personnel work hand-in-hand with community to deliver meaningful support.
We recognise the unique strengths, resilience, and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and are committed to listening, learning, and growing together.”
This renewed agreement continues a proud tradition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service, both in community and in the Air Force. It reflects the belief that true progress comes from respectful partnerships, mutual trust, and honouring the expertise that resides within community.
As Ms Mills affirmed, “NACCHO is proud to stand with the Air Force and our communities as we look to the future. When we work together, in true partnership, we create opportunities that are greater than the sum of their parts. The solutions are in community hands, guided by culture, wisdom, and a shared commitment to better health for all.”
As NACCHO and the Air Force move forward together, this partnership stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities lead, and all partners work in the spirit of respect, unity, and shared purpose.
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM (right) and National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Chairperson Donnella Mills formalise a renewed Memorandum of Understanding between the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and NACCHO.
