The Ngaanyatjarra Council has appointed Tim O’Brien as the new General Manager of Ngaanyatjarra Health Service (NHS), marking an important step toward addressing the distinct health challenges faced by Yarnangu on the Ngaanyatjarra Lands.
With decades of experience in Aboriginal health across regional, metropolitan, and remote settings, Tim brings a strategic focus to NHS’s unique mission of delivering a full spectrum of health services—from acute care to public health initiatives—in one of the most remote regions of Australia.
O’Brien will oversee NHS’s three service delivery arms—Private Health, Primary Healthcare, and Public Health—managing 45 funding agreements totalling $30 million annually. These encompass hospital and clinic oversight, aged care services, community health clinics, dental and mental health support, and public health initiatives like environmental health.
As General Manager, Tim’s focus is on driving a proactive approach to health and continuing the transition of the NHS to a more visionary and less reactionary funding model that can help address the deepest health needs on the Lands.
“NHS is a vital service for Yarnangu on the Lands and the distinct health challenges they face,” Tim said.
“NHS is unique in providing such a breadth of services under one umbrella,”
“This remote geography creates challenges but also offers a rare opportunity to merge acute care with proactive public health strategies,” Tim said.
“By focussing on preventive measures, we can help healthy Yarnangu enjoy even stronger health rather than predominantly reacting to acute needs. This is not just achievable—it’s essential,” Tim said.
“With the health needs of 1,800 Yarnangu spread across an area larger than Victoria, NHS faces unique challenges and opportunities. While we will continue to provide acute services across the region, we can deliver impactful strategies like food and nutrition programs. These efforts can reduce disease prevalence, improve school attendance, and lower crime rates—outcomes that are not just achievable but essential.” Tim said.
By fostering resilience and stronger communities, these strategies ensure Yarnangu remain strong on Country and thrive in a culture-rich environment.
