General News
20 March, 2026
Rural health under discussion
A MEETING involving the National Rural Health Alliance and Mareeba Health Workforce Alliance meeting has focussed on developing practical reforms to strengthen local workforce, service access and long-term healthcare sustainability in rural communities.
The plan is considered important by rural based health professionals as it demonstrates a commitment to rural communities and discussions on regional health and workforce priorities.
Independent Member for Wagga Wagga in NSW, Dr Joe McGirr, is a leading voice in rural health reform and currently is advocating for the New South Wales Rural Health Action Plan.
His visit comes at a critical time, as regional communities continue to navigate persistent workforce shortages, increasing service shortages and growing demand and the ongoing challenge of attracting and retaining skilled medical and other healthcare professionals.
Mareeba & Communities Family Healthcare chair Ross Cardillo said rural and regional health challenges were all too common across rural Australia.
“Rural health workforce reform is a national issue, but it plays out in very local ways,” he said.
“People living in regional areas should not miss out on healthcare simply because of where they live.
“We continue to advocate for support to implement local practical solutions that give communities a stronger voice in how services are designed and delivered.”
Mareeba & Communities Family Healthcare general manager Gail Wason said the discussion focussed on strengthening long-term workforce sustainability in Mareeba.
“Workforce stability underpins service continuity and quality of care,” she said.
“Engaging with national reform initiatives allows us to examine what is working across Australia and consider how those insights can inform our own local planning and advocacy.
“We are ensuring that our region is proactive, informed and connected to broader reform conversations.”
National Rural Health Alliance chief executive Susi Tegen welcomed the cross-regional dialogue.
“Rural health challenges are not confined by state borders,” she said.
“A collaborative National Reform Agreement between states and the Federal Government and shared supported learning are essential to building sustainable workforce solutions that genuinely reflect community need.
“The Federal Government’s Innovative Models of Care (IMOC) grant has provided for some of this support for Mareeba,” she added.
Mareeba Health Workforce Alliance brings together local health providers, local government, business, community organisations and community to strengthen workforce planning and improve access to care across the region.
