BHP has become Ear Science Institute Australia’s Gift of Hearing Appeal’s newest philanthropic partner to provide funding for the successful Healthy Hearing Outback program.
Collaborating closely with the community, Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) and other stakeholders, BHP is providing $825,000 to Ear Science’s philanthropic arm – the Gift of Hearing – to enhance the institute’s programs and further improve the ear and hearing health outcomes of Aboriginal families in the East Pilbara region.
Over a three-year period, the much-needed funding will be directly channeled into improving access to vital ear and hearing services on country, reducing the need for travel.
Ear Science Ear Health Coordinator Lucy Mitchell said:
“We are thrilled to have BHP on board. With their support, we can expand and improve care on country, boost community involvement and ensure the program’s long-term sustainability for the Martu and Nyiyaparli peoples in the East Pilbara.”
The funding from BHP will ensure the Healthy Hearing Outback program can meet its goals to:
- provide both onsite and portable ENT and Audiological equipment for the region.
- employ two Martu Community Liaison Officers to guide the project team on service integration into the community.
- enhance ear health promotion activities to provide culturally safe education and information to the community.
- Build the skills and knowledge of local healthcare providers, in particular Martu and Nyiyaparli clinicians.
- reduce barriers for individuals requiring surgery in Port Hedland and Perth.
Ear Science CEO Adjunct Associate Professor Sandra Bellekom says;
“We are so excited to be partnering with BHP, on this vital project. Through building local awareness of ear and hearing health and building capacity to deliver services, the Healthy Hearing Outback project is bringing long-term benefits to families in Newman, Jigalong, Punmu, Parnngurr, and Kunawarritji that will have life-long impact.”
