Arabic version: مركز الرجال في كونونورا يشجّع على طلب الرعاية الصحية مبكراً
According to ABC News, a dedicated Men’s Hub in Kununurra is seeking to reduce barriers that can prevent Aboriginal men from seeking medical help. The service, run by the Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service (OVAHS), opened earlier in 2026 and provides walk-in GP appointments as well as social, emotional and addiction support.
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data shows men are less likely than women to visit a GP, with one in five men not visiting a doctor at all. The data also shows Indigenous men are 2.3 times more likely to experience disease and have higher rates of chronic and acute conditions including kidney disease, diabetes, and mental and substance-use disorders.
OVAHS chief operating officer Caleb Edelsten said the hub was created after the organisation saw reduced engagement among male patients. About 180 men had used the centre since it opened, he said, with many returning for follow-up care. Dr Milo Murphy said earlier GP visits could mean fewer complications later, and said some new patients had attended for check-ups or STI checks.
Hub manager and Aboriginal Health Practitioner Shaun Cox said the service was designed as a culturally safe setting. He said cultural laws can make clinic visits difficult when men encounter certain female family members, while having Aboriginal men at reception can help visitors feel more relaxed. Field officer Michael Merrison helps local men reach appointments and said trust built through repeated contact could improve outcomes.
Patient Peter Brandy said better support could help Aboriginal men achieve stronger health and wellbeing outcomes. OVAHS says it would like to expand the number of GP appointments if dedicated funding becomes available.
