Background: Hands-On-Health Australia (HOHA) is an incorporated not-for-profit organisation that provides voluntary health services that are not easily met in the mainstream.

We are a group of voluntary health workers committed to providing a comprehensive, holistic health service attuned to the special needs of socially and economically disadvantaged people.

The emphasis is on natural healing methods, where possible, taking into account the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the whole person.

We aim not only to alleviate physical ailments but to build self-esteem and restore human dignity by encouraging people to discover solutions to their own problems. The rewards which this work brings means that both the practitioner and the client are enriched by the interaction. Right now, there are Hands-On-Health Centres working within Churches, Hostels and Crisis Centres throughout Australia and the Asian-Pacific to make a difference in people's lives.

Hands-On-Health Australia are responsible for making a difference in people's lives with the help of Practitioners donating their time to meet the needs of socially and economically disadvantaged people.

Here are three ways you can become involved:

1. VOLUNTEER to help out in an existing Hands-On-Health Centre whether it's one or two days a week or just a couple of hours a fortnight.
2. SET-UP a Hands-On-Health Clinic in your local community by approaching a local Community Outreach centre, get your Church involved, recruit your Professional colleagues, talk to your local MP....we'll give you all the advice and support you need.

What Support Is Needed For Short Term Projects? Current projects focus on promoting sustainable, grass roots health education in rural and remote Indigenous Communities across Australia.

Over the last ten years, Hands-On-Health Australia (HOHA) has developed strong collaborative links with rural and remote Aboriginal communities in Kempsey and Brewarrina NSW.

HOHA is currently developing a Sports Massage Course for Aboriginal Health Workers that combines traditional, Indigenous approaches with western massage therapy techniques.

A hope is shared by elders of the communities, is that this Nationally Accredited Massage Course will act as a valuable model od community based care to help the many Aboriginal people suffering from pain and disability in isolated regions where affordable care and appropriate services are often lacking.

Cost Of Course: Sponsorship per person: $950.00

As AHW's have already completed substantial health-related courses, they are eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning.

This enables health workers to participate in a course that is very practical in its orientation.
Upon graduation, health workers will be suitably qualified to work in a variety of settings including Aboriginal Medical Services, Sports Clubs or in a private capacity.