The 3rd Annual Excellence in Indigenous Health Awards 2012 finalists have been announced. Held in conjunction with the Improving Social Determinants of Indigenous Health Conference, the awards are given in recognition of the inspirational work from service providers, communities and individuals making a difference by improving health disadvantage. 

The three categories recognise programs that deliver child and maternal health through generational change using culturally appropriate models of care for new mothers, children and families; environmental health initiatives that create and maintain appropriate living conditions and promote good public health; and improving access to primary care by centring culturally appropriate services around the needs of the community.

The finalists are:

Outstanding delivery in child & maternal health

• Dhauward - Wurrung Eldery and Community Health Service
• The Royal Life Saving Society - Western Australia Inc
• Orbost Regional Health*
• Hunter New England Health Service, Tamworth Community Health Service
• Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council
• Derby Aboriginal Health Service
• Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of NSW

Environmental health initiatives

• Vibe Australia*
• Queensland Health
• Northern Pride
• Centracare Catholic Family Service
• Ozcare
• Noongar Mia Mia Pty Ltd
• NSW Aboriginal Housing Office

Improving access to primary health care

• Centre for Remote Health
• Bosom Buddies NT Inc
• Flinders Medical Centre
• The Aboriginal Health Council of SA*
• KARI Aboriginal Resources Inc
• UnitingCare Burnside
• Kornar Winmil Yunti
• Aboriginal Health Council WA
• MJD Foundation
• Melbourne School of Population Health, The University of Melbourne
• Darbarl Yerrigan Health Service Inc

The panel assessing the nominations comprises Paperbark Woman Lenore Dembski, Indigenous health consultant Barb Flick and Chief Executive Officer Urapuntja Health Service, Sarah Doherty.

Initiatives deemed to have made an outstanding contribution will be recognised at the Awards Gala Dinner on 28 March 2012 in Sydney.

* The winners of the 3rd Annual Excellence in Indigenous Health Awards 2012.