Holyoake and Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation Unite to Support Stronger Communities
Holyoake and Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation (MKAC) have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening their shared commitment to improving health, wellbeing and social outcomes for Aboriginal people across the Perth metropolitan and Wheatbelt regions.
The partnership reflects a deep alignment between the two organisations, both of which are committed to delivering culturally safe, community-centred services that empower individuals, families and communities to thrive. Through the MoU, Holyoake and MKAC will work collaboratively to strengthen referral pathways, coordinate support for people with complex needs, share knowledge and expertise, explore innovation opportunities and build workforce capability.
At the heart of the agreement is a shared belief in Aboriginal self-determination, cultural safety, respect, accountability and the importance of community-led decision-making. The MoU also recognises the value of collaboration that strengthens services rather than duplicates them, ensuring Aboriginal people can access the right support in the way that best meets their needs.
The partnership comes as Holyoake prepares to launch its second Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), reinforcing the organisation’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal communities and organisations.
For Holyoake, reconciliation is not simply a framework – it is an ongoing journey of listening, learning and, importantly, unlearning. The organisation recognises that genuine progress requires humility, openness and a willingness to challenge longstanding assumptions and systems in pursuit of better outcomes for Aboriginal people.
Holyoake Chief Executive Officer, Ben Smith, said the partnership represented an important step in the organisation’s reconciliation journey.
“This agreement reflects the strong alignment between our two organisations and our shared commitment to walking alongside Aboriginal people, families and communities in ways that are respectful, culturally safe and community-led. As Holyoake prepares to launch its second Stretch RAP, partnerships such as this demonstrate our commitment to reconciliation not as a destination, but as an ongoing process of listening, learning and unlearning.”
“Both Holyoake and MKAC work across Boorloo (Perth) and the Wheatbelt, supporting many of the same communities and sharing a vision for improved wellbeing outcomes. By strengthening our relationship and working together, we can create more connected pathways to support and ensure people receive the right care at the right time.”
Acting Chief Executive Officer of MKAC, Danielle McGuire, said the partnership would help strengthen community outcomes through collaboration grounded in shared values.
“This MoU formalises a relationship built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to supporting Aboriginal people through culturally secure, holistic and community-focused care. We know that the best outcomes are achieved when organisations work together, listen to community voices and place Aboriginal self-determination at the centre of everything they do.”
“Holyoake’s commitment to reconciliation and culturally responsive practice aligns strongly with the way MKAC works with our communities. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership creates to strengthen support pathways, build capability and deepen our collective impact across Boorloo and the Wheatbelt.”
The MoU establishes a framework for ongoing collaboration over the next two years, with both organisations working together in good faith to identify opportunities that enhance health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities.
About Holyoake
Holyoake is a leading Western Australian provider of alcohol and other drug treatment, mental health and community wellbeing services. Through evidence-based and person-centred support, Holyoake works alongside individuals, families and communities to make better futures possible.
About Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation
Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation committed to supporting Aboriginal people and communities through culturally safe, community-led health and wellbeing services that promote self-determination, choice and control.
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