The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) is pleased to see the recent unveiling of the Regionalisation Ambition 2032 Year 1 Progress Report by Regional Australia Institute at the Regions Rising National Summit – Shifting our Gaze.
The Alliance supports the Ambition and is a founding member of the National Alliance for Regionalisation initiative to ‘Rebalance the Nation.’
“We are pleased that the progress report highlights that regional Australia is a better place to live, work and invest than it was 12 months ago”.
“As such, we encourage federal and state governments to double their efforts to provide health dividends to the regions, with increased funding and services. These efforts need to be locally led and flexible to build what is needed,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
“The Alliance continues to work and advocate for better healthcare access in rural and regional areas. We know that by supporting Australians to be healthier, rural and regional populations thrive, and they can continue to be the economic powerhouse they are,” Ms Tegen added.
“Non-urban industries represent a substantial proportion of Australia’s economic output, while representing just 30 percent of the population. Australia’s prosperity and ability to weather financial crises and economic downturns have been because of the contribution of rural, regional and remote industries and populations.
“Therefore, while we join in the call for regionalisation, we urge that governments take heed to this enthusiasm and capacity to ensure better health outcomes to our regions,” Ms Tegen concluded.
About us:
The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 47 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.
