Aboriginal health group in cash probe THE biggest Aboriginal health organisation in the Northern Territory is facing questions about the alleged misuse of more than $2 million in funding. The federal Department of Health has told the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (CAAC) an audit raised concerns about governance, record keeping and spending. An April letter from the department's assistant secretary Garry Fisk to congress chairwoman Helen Kantawarra warns the Federal Government may move to recover "in excess of $2 million." The letter outlines apparent irregularities with the charging of 20 per cent administration fees for projects, transfers of money between projects and unauthorised overseas travel. The letter says chief executive officer Stephanie Bell allegedly used a corporate credit card for "what appear to be non-business purposes." "This is a serious matter, particularly if the funds involved were grant funds," Mr Fisk wrote in the letter, which was obtained by Alice Springs News. Mr Fisk has asked the congress what action it was planning to take, although he acknowledged Ms Bell had repaid some amounts. Ms Kantawara said in a statement an independent organisational review and financial investigation were underway. She said the review and investigation would not affect the delivery of health services. Indigenous health minister Warren Snowdon said in Canberra today the Government has sent in a financial administrator and will be conducting further audits. "This is an issue about transparency and good governance," he said. I'm most concerned about the operation of the congress board and some senior management. Mr Snowdon said he would be talking to the NT Department of Justice. He declined to comment on whether criminal charges were likely to be laid.