Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service, a community-controlled health organisation Our history TAIHS was established in 1974. At that time, it was the fourth Aboriginal community controlled health service (ACCHS) established in Australia, and was part of the wider move for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to take control of the delivery of health care services in their communities. Today, our strategic plan is determined by our Board of Directors comprising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from across the region. TAIHS’s organisational mission and vision statements demonstrate a commitment to providing holistic and culturally appropriate health services, underpinned by a philosophy of community participation, and a strong focus on care and service coordination. Our Purpose Lead the way in providing accessible, integrated health and social support services to our people so that they can live healthier, stronger, and longer lives, preserving our oldest surviving culture for future generations.