The Garinga Bupup program—meaning “growing babies” in Djaara language—is a culturally grounded, early intervention initiative developed by the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative (BDAC). Its core objective is to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers during pregnancy to reduce child protection involvement and promote long-term family wellbeing.
The presentation will explore the program’s development, including its co-design with community members and Aboriginal health workers to ensure cultural safety and relevance. Delivered to expectant Aboriginal families in the Bendigo region, Garinga Bupup provides wraparound support such as antenatal education, nutrition advice, birth planning, and postnatal care.
Case workers often accompany mothers through labour and beyond, offering consistent, compassionate support.
Outcomes have been powerful: the program achieved a 63% diversion rate from Child Protection, demonstrating its effectiveness in strengthening families and preventing statutory intervention. These outcomes were assessed through referral tracking, engagement metrics, and qualitative feedback from families and partner agencies.
Challenges included navigating systemic barriers such as limited access to housing, mental health services, and culturally safe mainstream healthcare. These highlighted the need for stronger interagency collaboration and investment in Aboriginal-led services.
The program actively engages lived experience through its relational model. Families co-create their care plans, and their voices shape ongoing service delivery. Staff with lived experience bring empathy and cultural insight, fostering trust and connection. This approach ensures that services are not only effective but deeply respectful and empowering. Key lessons include the transformative power of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations in designing and delivering culturally responsive care. Garinga Bupup stands as a model for how self-determination, cultural safety, and holistic support can drive meaningful change in maternal and child health outcomes.
Heather Sandford
Community Coordinator, Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative
Heather Sandford is the Community Coordinator at the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative, where she supports Aboriginal families and promotes culturally safe community programs. She is passionate about fostering connection, empowerment, and wellbeing within the local Aboriginal community.
Rhoda Morgan
Garinga bupup Practitioner, Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative
Rhoda Morgan is a Garinga Bupup Practitioner at the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative, supporting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal families through culturally grounded care. She is committed to fostering resilience and connection to culture, Country, and community in her work.
