Our Programs

Victorian Aboriginal Funeral Service

VAFS offers culturally strong funerals, care since the 1970s. Based at AAL, Melbourne, providing transport, coffins, flowers, and liaising with ministers or celebrants for services.

Regional Assessment Services

The Aborigines Advancement League’s Regional Assessment Service offers culturally safe assessments for elders in Northern Area districts, supporting independent living at home and in the community.

Gurwidj Koori Neighbourhood House

Gurwidj, a Neighbourhood House since the 1980s, empowers Aboriginal women through various programs. It has been part of the Aborigines Advancement League in Thornbury since 2005.

Family Services Program

The Family Services Unit supports Koories in Melbourne and across the state, empowering families and clients in line with the League’s goals and objectives.

Lady Gladys Nicholls Hostel

In the 1950s, overcrowded households and the influx of young Aboriginal people to Melbourne led Sir Pastor Doug Nicholls to establish a 14-bed hostel in 1958.

Aboriginal Tenants at Risk Program

The Aboriginal Tenants at Risk Program supports tenants in North and West Melbourne, offering advice, advocacy, and referrals to maintain secure, affordable housing. It is funded by the Department of Human Services.

Metropolitan Aboriginal Development Officer

The ADO, funded by the Department of Health and based at AAL, reports to the CEO and Network Chairperson. Established in 1994, ADO positions are statewide, ensuring Aboriginal community control.

Indigital Center

Indigital, an Aboriginal-controlled organisation, delivers programs for young Indigenous people in Victoria through music and storytelling. Launched in 2005, supported by The Sidney Myer Foundation, RioTinto, and ANZ Foundation Trust.

Governance

The AAL, a community-controlled Aboriginal organisation, provides government advice, delivers funded programs, supports children, families, and culture, and advocates for the Koori community’s needs.

Corporate Programs

Human Resources Unit at AAL has 3 staff members (Accountant, Assistant Bookkeeper, Receptionist). They manage financial operations, maintain records, prepare reports, and provide support in line with AAL’s objectives and funding requirements.

Commonwealth Home Support and HACC PYP Program

CHSP provides aged care services to help older people live independently at home, funded across Australia, including by the AAL, for individuals aged 50+ for Indigenous people.

Building an Indigenous Workforce in Community Care

The AAL funds two positions to support improved health outcomes for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, offering employment opportunities, training, and culturally appropriate aged care services.