Inverell Shire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to improving local health services by supporting ongoing advocacy efforts to attract a permanent Senior Doctor to the Inverell
District Hospital.
This initiative, coordinated by Hunter New England Health (HNEH) in partnership with the
Inverell Health Forum and a consortium of medical organisations represents the first step in
establishing Inverell Hospital as a Rural Generalist Training Location. Such a designation
would provide long-term benefits, including a permanent doctor presence and a pathway for
future doctors to live, train and work in the Inverell region.
The Inverell Health Forum, chaired by Cr Wendy Wilks, has worked diligently with HNEH,
local practitioners, academic institutions and government agencies to develop a sustainable
medical care model for the Shire. Recent correspondence from Dr Paul Craven, Executive
Director of HNEH, confirmed plans to recruit a Senior Doctor who would serve in the
Emergency Department and assist in training the next generation of doctors.
Council staff have already been liaising with HNEH to provide promotional material
showcasing Inverell as a desirable location for medical professionals.
Health and medical services were identified as the highest priority in Council’s December
2024 Community Satisfaction Survey, with 34% of residents ranking it above community
safety, road networks and the local economy. This priority is also reflected in the Inverell
Shire Community Strategic Plan, which commits Council to advocating for access to quality
medical services.
Council adopted a General Practitioner (GP) Support Program Policy in 2023, providing
grants of up to $30,000 per doctor to assist with establishment costs. To date, three medical
practices have benefited from the program.
While the policy does not specifically cover Senior Doctor recruitment, Council acknowledged
that supporting this role aligns with the policy’s intent to reduce pressure on local GPs and
strengthen long-term medical capacity.
At its Ordinary Meeting on 17 December, Council considered options to contribute to the
recruitment package and resolved to provide a one-off establishment grant of $30,000 from
the GP Support Program Reserve.
Council’s contribution will form part of a consolidated package coordinated by HNEH to attract
the best candidate for this pivotal role.
Mayor Cr Kate Dight said the initiative reflects Council’s strong commitment to community
priorities.
“Health and medical services are at the top of our community’s concerns. Supporting the
recruitment of a Senior Doctor is a vital step toward securing long-term, sustainable
healthcare for Inverell Shire. Council is proud to be part of this combined effort.”
The recruitment of a Senior Doctor is expected to deliver immediate improvements in medical
services while laying the foundation for Inverell Hospital to become a Rural Generalist
Training Location. This model will ensure sustainable medical care, encourage future doctors
to train and remain in the region, and provide lasting benefits to Inverell Shire residents.
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