Islanders take over

IN a step towards self-determination, the Palm Island community has taken full control of the Palm Island Community Company.

Since it started operating in 2008, the PICC has delivered human services, community capacity building and economic development programs on the island.

The PICC aims to deliver innovative, community-driven programs that are aimed at supporting and strengthening the social, cultural and economic fabric of the Palm Island community.

As part of the change, the state government and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council have transferred their shareholding in PICC to enable the organisation to be fully owned by community members.

In August, it took on the responsibility for the Palm Island primary health services, amalgamating its health care with the Townsville Hospital and Health Service to create an integrated, community-controlled Aboriginal medical service.

Former PICC chairman and Palm Island Mayor Mislam Sam said taking control of the company was a “hardwon” achievement for the community.

“Our community and our elders and leaders have worked for decades for self-determination, and we are proud to finally have local control over services, especially health, that support our families and employ local people,” Mr Sam said.

Chairwoman Luella Blight said she was confident the new communitycontrolled PICC would continue the strong and professional governance and service delivery it had achieved in its 13 years.

“PICC was already operating with a majority local board and up to 90 per cent local workforce and this means that we have managed a smooth transition to community control,” Ms Blight said.

“It was important to have the support of the Queensland government and the Palm Island Council during our establishment. We have worked closely with them on the transition and look forward to continuing our partnership.”

The PICC employs almost 150 people and offers integrated Aboriginal medical services, community services including family wellbeing, early childhood, healing, disability, child protection, domestic violence, men’s groups, children and youth activities, and social enterprises.