New community-controlled health commissioning body in Cape and Torres region established

Community leaders from the Cape and Torres region have welcomed the establishment of Cape and Torres Health Commissioning Ltd (CaTHC).

The new entity is independent and community-controlled, focused on planning and purchasing health services based on local input and evidence.

CaTHC will enable communities in Cape York, the Northern Peninsula Area and Torres Strait to have a greater role in health service planning and funding to better meet local needs and priorities.

The transition of funding to CaTHC will be phased over the next decade, with commissioning activities beginning soon.

CaTHC was created through the Torres and Cape Health Care (TORCH) Commissioning Fund project, a joint effort involving community leaders, the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council and the Commonwealth and Queensland governments.

The Founding Directors of CaTHC include Aileen Addo, Patricia Yusia, Flora Warrior, and Lui Ned David.

Chairperson Aileen Addo stated the incorporation marks a crucial step towards "place-based and community-led health initiatives".

"CaTHC embodies the principles of self-determination and empowerment, granting authority to local place-based leaders to make key decisions about health services," she said.

"The community leaders of the Torres and Cape are ready to lead a community-controlled health commissioning entity and to listen and share the voice of the Cape and Torres community about their health needs and aspirations."

Chairperson Addo said the Board is moving quickly to carry out key tasks.

These include developing a strategic plan, conducting a health needs assessment and establishing a comprehensive community-wide engagement approach.

Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said the incorporation of Cape and Torres Health Commissioning Ltd is a key step in health reform, emphasising the government's commitment to Closing the Health Gap through community control over health service planning and funding.

"The incorporation of the Cape and Torres Health Commissioning Ltd is an important step forward in driving transformational health system reform," she said.

"We understand the importance of having community self determination over how health services are planned and funded to ensure it meets the health needs of those living in the Torres Strait and Cape York Region."