A commonly recognised method of working with Aboriginal people is to form partnerships with the community organisations which are imbedded within local communities. This method, referred to as ‘community-based practice’, has been the key to success for sport organisations which have successfully engaged Aboriginal people in sport. This is because community organisations play an important role in the lives of the Aboriginal population, meaning these organisations are a key enabler in connecting Aboriginal with services such as programs offered by Victorian sport organisations. The first step to connect with a potential partner organisation is to call them, set up a meeting and assess purpose of the partnership. For more information on setting up effective partnerships you can refer to the VicHealth Partnerships Analysis tool.
The types of organisations you form a partnership with may include (but are not limited to): local Aboriginal co-operatives, community health organisations, Aboriginal sport and recreation bodies, local councils, TAFEs, and community centres.
Who to contact
The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (VACCHO) is the peak body for the wellbeing of Aboriginal in Victoria. They provide a range of consultation services, information and tools. They can also provide links to local health service organisations and co-operatives across Victoria.
The Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Ltd (VACSAL) is a community based organisation. Their vision is to “empower the Victorian Aboriginal community to achieve social, political and economic equity, whilst maintaining and strengthening identity, culture, pride and social purpose.” VACSAL is involved in organising carnivals and events for Basketball, Football (soccer), Netball and AFL.
The Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) has two offices in Melbourne and provides a range of services to meet the health needs of the Aboriginal community.
Melbourne Aboriginal Youth Sport and Recreation (MAYSAR) is a Melbourne based co-operative providing sport and recreation opportunities for Aboriginal people.
Local Aboriginal Networks (LANs) bring Aboriginal people together at the local level to set priorities, develop community plans, improve social cohesion and empower AboriginalVictorians to participate in civic and community life.
Partnership Case Study: Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited Statewide (VACSAL) Football and Netball Carnival.
Netball Victoria and AFL Victoria partner with VACSAL to deliver the state wide carnival which attracted over 700 participants in 2017.
Partnership Case Study: Churchill Football Netball Club Indigenous Round
The Churchill Football Netball Club partnered with the local Regional Sports Assembly – Gippsport – to deliver an indigenous round in 2017.