Bourke Integrated Primary Health Care Centre

Challenge

The Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service (BACHS) operated across two ageing, overcrowded sites that were no longer fit for purpose. Patients, particularly elders and those with mobility issues, were forced to navigate multiple facilities, increasing pressure on staff and threatening accreditation. Demand for culturally appropriate care was rising, yet the infrastructure could not keep pace.

At the same time, the funding program was highly competitive, with Aboriginal health services across the country competing for limited allocations. To succeed, BACHS needed an application that not only addressed immediate infrastructure challenges but also demonstrated alignment with national policy goals and long-term health system sustainability.

Photo to come

Approach

We supported BACHS through two successive funding processes when initial allocations proved insufficient due to market pressures. Across both rounds, we refined project staging to manage budget constraints, integrated technical inputs including site acquisition and scope design, and aligned the case with program priorities. We presented a compelling narrative linking facility upgrades with measurable improvements in Aboriginal health access and outcomes, ensuring BACHS remained competitive despite shifting costs and delivery risks.

Outcomes

1. Stage 1 · 2022

   $8.06m

   Funds the core build: consulting rooms, waiting areas, staff spaces and core amenities.

2. Stage 2 · 2023

   $5.34m

   Adds multi-purpose training rooms and expanded allied health facilities.

With both stages funded, the new centre is heading into construction.

• Care from two ageing, overcrowded sites will come together under one roof.
• BACHS will have room to meet growing demand for culturally appropriate care.

Two ageing sites, soon to be one modern home for culturally appropriate care.