Reconciliation stalled: Church refuses land for vital health service

The Catholic Church, one of Sydney's largest property owners with assets in the billions, has been urged to transfer a Redfern building to the Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS). The AMS has operated from the Turner Street site for 55 years, providing critical healthcare to thousands of vulnerable individuals. Despite repeated requests over 25 years from the AMS, led by CEO LaVerne Bellear, the Archdiocese of Sydney, under Archbishops George Pell and Anthony Fisher, has refused to grant ownership.

The Archdiocese cited reasons including the property being part of the church's 'stable patrimony' and claiming subdivision is impractical. However, the AMS has engaged town planners who confirmed subdivision is possible. The church's stance is viewed by many, including former federal minister Linda Burney and Jesuit priest Father Frank Brennan, as a missed opportunity for reconciliation and a failure to act on stated commitments to Indigenous Australians.

Historically, the Sisters of Mercy donated a similar property in Redfern to the AMS in 1978, enabling its expansion. The AMS continues to advocate for ownership, highlighting its growing patient numbers and need for expanded mental health services. They offer comprehensive care, including GP consultations, immunisations, and drug and alcohol services, with a packed waiting room by 7:30 AM daily. The current offer of a 10-year lease on a peppercorn rental is seen as insufficient by proponents of the land transfer.

Danny Gilbert, chairman of Gilbert + Tobin, has been advocating for the land transfer for over 25 years, emphasizing it as an act of justice rather than charity. He believes gifting the property would honor the legacy of relationships forged between Aboriginal people and the Catholic Church in Sydney. Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek also expressed support for the AMS's cause, emphasizing the need for certainty and continued services for future generations.