particularly within First Nations communities. UnitingCare Queensland stepped in to support the creation of ARRCS, which operates with its own dedicated board and governance structure. This framework allows ARRCS the flexibility to adapt to the unique circumstances of the Northern Territory while maintaining strong oversight. At its core, ARRCS’s vision goes beyond simply providing services. “We want to be recognized as the best-aged care provider for First Nations people in the Northern Territory,” says Hubbard. This vision drives every aspect of ARRCS’s operations, ensuring that all elders in the territory, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, receive care that honors and respects their cultural identities. DELIVERING CARE TO REMOTE LANDSCAPES ARRCS’s approach to care is distinct, particularly in its willingness to operate in some of Australia’s most remote and underserved regions.“When no one else will go in, we’ll go in,” Hubbard states, capturing the organization’s pioneering spirit. ARRCS operates in areas such as Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek, Mutitjulu, and Docker River, where populations can be as small as 350 people. These communities are not just remote; they are often inaccessible, facing extreme weather conditions and significant logistical challenges. ARRCS provides a comprehensive range of services in these remote areas, ensuring no elder is left without support. These services include residential and community-based aged care and the delivery of meals, medications, and laundry services to community members who meet government criteria. “Once somebody can’t live at home, we take them into residential aged care,” Hubbard explains, describing a seamless continuum of care. These services are designed to mirror those provided in mainstream aged care facilities but with adaptations for the unique conditions of remote Australia.“In Docker River, for example, it gets up to 50 degrees and down to minus three,” Hubbard notes, highlighting the extreme conditions that residents and staff must endure. Despite these challenges, ARRCS remains committed to providing high-quality care, even in the most difficult environments. CULTURAL SENSITIVITY AT THE CORE ARRCS’s approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, especially in its work with First Nations communities. The focus is a strategic priority and a core aspect of ARRCS’s identity. “We have cultural specialists at 13 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 AUSTRALIAN REGIONAL AND REMOTE COMMUNITY SERVICES (ARRCS)
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