The Local Government NSW developed ‘Caring for our Regions’ plan is a six point action plan on rural and regional health.
It outlines coordinated action needed from state and commonwealth governments to address critical gaps in healthcare access and outcomes across rural, regional and remote communities.
Mayor Ashley Hall said the decision builds on council’s ongoing advocacy work to secure better health services for Deniliquin and the broader Edward River Local Government Area (LGA).
“Access to healthcare should not depend on your postcode, yet that’s the reality facing many in our community,” Cr Hall said.
“From the push for a new hospital in Deniliquin to ongoing GP shortages, our residents are dealing with very real and immediate challenges.”
Council’s endorsement of the plan strengthens its existing advocacy framework, including its Advocacy Plan and Health Position Statement, and aligns with its commitment to building caring, healthy and inclusive communities.
Across the Edward River LGA, residents continue to experience:
• Difficulty accessing GPs and primary care
• Ongoing shortages in healthcare and allied health professionals
• The need to travel long distances for treatment
• Limited options for ageing in place.
“These are not abstract issues – they affect families trying to get a GP appointment, older residents wanting to stay in their homes, and young families needing access to safe, local care,” Cr Hall said.
Strategic priority areas identified include:
• Strengthening the regional health workforce
• Introducing a GP guarantee for rural communities
• Reimbursing councils forced to fill healthcare gaps
• Funding patient transport as essential infrastructure
• Restoring safe, local maternity services
• Investing in aged care and ageing-in-place support
“Strengthening the health workforce is critical for communities like ours,” Cr Hall said.
“A GP guarantee would be a game changer for Deniliquin - giving residents confidence they can access basic care when they need it.”
Council CEO Jack Bond said the plan reflects what is happening on the ground in Edward River.
He said councils are increasingly stepping in to support their communities, increasing financial pressures on council.
“We’re seeing the impacts of workforce shortages and limited services every day,” Mr Bond said.
“For many residents, accessing care isn’t simple or local.
“When councils are required to step in to fill service gaps, it places pressure on our ability to deliver core infrastructure and community services.
“This plan helps make the case for more coordinated, long-term investment at state and national level.”
As part of its resolution, council will write to key state and commonwealth ministers, along with local Members of Parliament, seeking their support and calling for coordinated action to improve rural and regional health outcomes.
Cr Hall said improving access to healthcare is essential to the region’s future.
“Better healthcare means stronger communities. It supports population growth, helps people stay local, and ensures communities like Deniliquin remain great places to live, work and raise a family.”
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