A proud First Nations man with bloodlines to the Kunja and Budgiti nations, Mr Martin has extensive experience in Aboriginal Health, cultural governance, and facilitating organisational change to privilege First Nations voices at a strategic and service level.
MLHD Chief Executive Jill Ludford said Mr Martin’s formal qualifications, lived experience and working career have provided him with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the health and health-related issues that Aboriginal people face.
“Tony is passionate about rural health care, especially good access for Aboriginal people to health and hospital services in rural, regional, and remote locations, and about cultural safety and engagement for Aboriginal staff, patients, and clients,” Ms Ludford said.
“We are delighted that he has joined our MLHD team.”
In his previous role as the Executive Director Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing for Western NSW Local Health District, Mr Martin supported the transformation of Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing into both strategic and operational governance functions of the NSW Health system.
Mr Martin continues to advocate delivery of co-designed, culturally safe services which will improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities, no matter where they live. He is passionate about strategic planning, performance reporting and monitoring, to aid improved service delivery that results in better health outcomes for Aboriginal people.
He also provides mentoring, coaching, support, and guidance to the Aboriginal Health Leadership Team, including the broader Aboriginal workforce.
Mr Martin, who is based in Griffith, has identified a range of priorities as he settles into his new role.
“Now that I’ve started at MLHD, I plan to continue working with internal staff to get a sense on the strengths, challenges, and opportunities on what’s required to enhance programs being delivered including Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services, Aunty Jeans, Building Strong Foundations, and the Aboriginal Sustained Home Visiting program,” he said.
“I’ll also be working with internal services and partner agencies to ensure integrated planning is occurring in meeting service delivery that is efficient and reduces duplication and supporting the translation of evidence into policy and practice.
“I am keen to embed and amplify Aboriginal voices and leadership and continue empowering Aboriginal staff to participate in shared decision-making processes within MLHD.”
