Mapping and Gap Analysis of Services for Indigenous People in the Murchison-Gascoyne Region
Mapping and Gap Analysis of Services for Indigenous People in the Murchison-Gascoyne Region Report
- Author(s): Rosemary Cant, Colin Penter, Darrell Henry, Joyce Archibald
- Published: 2010
- Publisher: WA Department of Indigenous Affairs
Abstract: This analysis of human services currently provided and funded by government to Aboriginal1 communities across the Murchison-Gascoyne was initiated by the Department of Indigenous Affairs with the intent of improving the service environment and service delivery to Aboriginal people in the region. In commissioning the Murchison-Gascoyne Mapping and Gap Analysis (MAGA), the Department of Indigenous Affairs recognised that although a range of policies are in place, and programs and services are being delivered, they are often failing to achieve required outcomes in Aboriginal communities. The intention of the MAGA was to identify the total government investment in each sub-region and detail the gaps in available services. The information from the MAGA will be used as an input to create a cohesive whole of Government Regional Investment Strategy. The three sub-regions assessed were: Midwest-North Midlands: City of Geraldton-Greenough, Shires of Northampton, Irwin, Chapman Valley, Three Springs, Perenjori, Carnamah, Morawa and Mingenew Carnarvon-Gascoyne: Shires of Carnarvon, Shark Bay, Upper Gascoyne and Exmouth Murchison: Shires of Mullewa, Murchison, Yalgoo, Mt Magnet, Cue, Meekatharra and Sandstone. The MAGA drew on the knowledge and experience of regional managers, staff of State and Commonwealth Government agencies and Local Government authorities, non-government service providers and Aboriginal organisations to obtain a picture of service provision across the region. Aboriginal community members in twelve towns and three Aboriginal communities were consulted about their views on services to their community and these are strongly reflected in the findings and recommended priorities for action. The findings from research previously undertaken in the Murchison-Gascoyne, as well as the findings of academic literature, government reports and papers have also informed the MAGA. The MAGA report is presented in four parts. Part A contains the regional overview, region-wide systemic issues and across region issues, needs and priorities. Parts B, C and D contain findings and priorities for action for each of the sub-regions that make up the Murchison-Gascoyne region. Town by town service mapping is contained in three separate documents – one for sub-region.