NINI, Sonder, and OARS Community Transitions appointed to lead Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre
SA Health has appointed the National Indigenous Network Initiative (NINI), in partnership with Sonder and OARS Community Transitions, to lead the establishment and delivery of South Australia’s first stand-alone, all ages Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre.
Funded by the Australian Government and SA Health, the Centre will provide culturally safe, trauma-informed, and holistic mental health services for Aboriginal people of all ages. Its development marks a significant step forward in improving the accessibility and cultural responsiveness of mental health care for First Nations communities.
A collaborative approach to culturally safe care
The Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre will be co-designed and delivered through a consortium approach, with NINI as the lead agency, supported by experienced partners Sonder and OARS Community Transitions.
Grounded in cultural knowledge, lived experience, and strong community partnerships, the Centre aims to create a safe and welcoming space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can access care that supports healing and wellbeing.
“As a proud Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation, NINI, together with its Consortium Partners Sonder Care Limited and OARS Community Transitions, is excited to have been selected to establish the first Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Centre in South Australia,” said Robert Leidig, CEO of NINI.
“The Centre will provide culturally safe and responsive services for Aboriginal people of all ages. We look forward to working closely with SA Health and other stakeholders to bring this vision to life.”
“Project planning, employment, staff training and finalisation of the service model are set to commence from July 2025. Temporary services will initially be delivered from sites at Port Adelaide and Marion in September 2025, with a view to transitioning to full services from January 2026 at our Adelaide site.”
Sonder and OARS bring deep service delivery expertise
Sonder, a leading not-for-profit mental health provider, brings more than three decades of experience delivering accessible, person-centred care across South Australia.
“Sonder is honoured to partner with NINI and OARS in establishing the first Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre in South Australia,” said Sageran Naidoo, CEO of Sonder.
“With over 30 years of experience delivering high-quality, mental health services across South Australia, Sonder brings strong expertise in evidence-based, culturally safe, trauma-informed, integrated models of care.
We look forward to walking alongside NINI, OARS, SA Health, and community leaders to ensure this Centre provides a welcoming, inclusive, and empowering space where First Nations peoples can access the care they need.”
With over 135 years of service to South Australians, OARS Community Transitions has a long-standing commitment to supporting people impacted by systemic disadvantage, trauma, and the justice system.
“OARS Community Transitions is proud to partner with NINI and Sonder to help bring this service to life. We are committed to contributing our experience and learning as part of a collaborative and community-led approach that centres healing, hope, and belonging”, said Louise Kelly, Acting CEO of OARS Community Transitions.
About the Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre
The Centre will serve as a place of hope and healing, grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customs, values, and connection to Country. It will offer community-led services that respect traditional healing practices and promote mental, emotional, cultural, and spiritual wellbeing.
To learn more about the Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre, visit the SA Health website.
Join us in shaping the future of culturally safe care
As the Centre begins to take shape, we will be seeking values-driven individuals who are passionate about fostering cultural practices and delivering innovative, trauma-informed, and connection-focused approaches to healing and wellbeing.
To explore upcoming opportunities to join this ground-breaking initiative, keep an eye on sonder.net.au/careers.