Our story

SAWCAN is a young organisation, but the communities which our members represent have been living and working together for tens of thousands of years.


SAWCAN was established in 2020 by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) from across the region in response to a longstanding vision for greater regional collaboration. The idea of a regional network had been discussed since the late 1990s and early 2000s, reflecting a shared commitment to working together on issues of common importance while respecting the independence and community control of each ACCHO.

SAWCAN is a collaborative regional network through which member ACCHOs identify shared priorities, coordinate projects, strengthen capability and advocate collectively on behalf of the communities they serve.

Our Model

SAWCAN operates on a unique model with Member Organisations, distinct from traditional membership-based structures. Our model is built on the following three foundations:

Collaborative Engagement

Member Organisations in SAWCAN actively participate in decision-making and activities, working closely with SAWCAN staff and others to address health challenges.

Shared Responsibilities

They share responsibilities with SAWCAN, contributing to strategic planning, resource allocation and program implementation.

Equal Footing

Our Member Organisations stand on equal footing with SAWCAN, ensuring decisions are made collaboratively, considering all partners’ perspectives.

SAWCAN’s operations are underpinned by three foundational documents:

  1. A legal auspice agreement,
  2. A memorandum of understanding, and
  3. A Strategic Plan.

These documents provide clarity, structure and legal backing to our collaborative efforts.