The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) met for its 468th meeting in MarchOver three days, Councillors participated in a strategic workshop and discussed the critical challenges and opportunities faced by NSWALC, LALCs and communities toward achieving the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan 2022-26.Council reviewed the key themes identified as part of NSWALC’s ongoing Strategic Planning process including further exploring four key areas of focus for the new plan:Land Activation: Deliver sustainable revenue, jobs and housing for community; Community Outcomes: Foster community partnerships, community planning initiatives and community priorities; Foundations: Deliver strong governance and operational foundations to drive positive community outcomes; Advocacy: Advocate for Land Rights with respect to acquisition and activation and community outcomes, as well as CAPO and Closing the Gap.Over the coming months NSWALC will continue to work through these key themes to create a draft 2026-2030 Strategic Plan to confirm organisational priorities for the next four years.Meeting with the NSW Treaty CommissionersCouncil met with NSW Treaty Commissioners Naomi Moran, Aden Ridgeway and Dr. Todd Fernando to discuss Treaty ahead of the commencement of the NSW Treaty process later in 2025. Council emphasised NSWALC’s recommendations on Treaty principles and the importance of an inclusive pathway to Treaty including ensuring that the treaty process is responsive to the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal peoples, protects and strengthens existing self-determination structures, such as LALCs, and ensures that the process protects existing gains by Aboriginal peoples – such as Land Rights in NSW.Statutory Investment Fund UpdateCouncil was updated on the performance of the Statutory Investment Fund, which in the 2024/25 Financial Year to date (as of 28 February 2025), has returned $41.2 million. According to NSWALC this is$11.89 million over budget.NSWALC Sponsorship ProgramCouncil discussed sponsorship support for the NSW Aboriginal Culture, Heritage & Arts Association Inc (ACHAA) 2025 Regional Conference.  The official opening of the conference will be hosted at the Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre 20-21 May 2025. Council approved sponsorship of $30,000 to support the ACHAA 2025 Regional Conference.NSWALC Community Fund GrantsCouncil approved $600,000 in funding across four LALCs under the NSWALC Community Fund Grant Program for the following programs that were determined to be best aligned with the NSWALC Strategic Plan 2022-2026:Gilgandra LALC Project: The Pines – Clean-up & securityCasino-Boolangle LALC Project: To maintain cultural lands and improve operational capacityCowra LALC Project: Erambie Land Management Plan – Part 3Walhallow LALC Project: Walhallow Cultural Tourism Capacity Building.Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council AppointmentsCouncil nominated Cr Danny Chapman as NSWALC’s primary representative to the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council (AFAC). Cr Diane Randall was nominated as an alternate representative.

Charmaine Calis appointed MASP CEO MASP's Board of Directors is pleased to announce Charmaine Calis as the organisation’s new full time CEO. MASP Board Chair Mary Rydberg said Mrs Calis’ appointment came after a comprehensive recruitment process. “This decision reflects our commitment to selecting the most appropriate and qualified candidate,” she said. “Charmaine's experience, proven leadership, and exceptional vision for the future stood out among a highly competitive field. "The Board of Directors looks forward to working with Charmaine and staff as we continue our commitment to achieving a community with individuals and families equipped to lead safe, secure, healthy and fulfilling lives.” Mrs Calis joined MASP in 2022 as the organisation’s Director of Corporate Services following an extensive career in Local Government and said it was an ‘honour’ to be appointed MASP’s fourth ever CEO after acting in the role for the past 12 months. “Over the last 12 months, I've gained a much greater understanding of the important role MASP plays in our community and the incredible work our staff does every day,” she said. “I'm very excited to be able to contribute to that work and support MASP as we continue to progress into the future.” Mrs Calis paid tribute to former CEO Vince Wilson, who resigned in October 2024 for health reasons. “Vince had a major impact on MASP during his time by setting a clear direction which has paved the way for MASP to remain a key service provider in the Mallee and Far West NSW communities,” she said. “The organisation will remain forever indebted to his leadership and I am committed to carrying on his legacy while also taking MASP forward.”

The Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia (IAPA) was founded in 2022 by Wilcannia’s Owen Whyman.Owen Whyman, Lawrence Brooke, Derek Hardman and Jamin. Image: IAPAWith ties across the Back Country community leader and Barkindji / Malyangapa man Owen Whyman is determined to bring a voice for Aboriginal people to the upcoming 2025 federal election.“I started IAPA because of the destruction of the Baaka (Darling) River system,” Mr Whyman said.“Our river is our mother. Without the river, we can’t tell our stories.”In traditional language, Baaka means ‘river’ and Barkindji means ‘people of the river’.My Whyman says IAPA is a grassroots party providing all Australians an alternative to the main Parties.“While other political parties appear to be sympathetic to Indigenous concerns, not much changes.”IAPA says it wants to see Indigenous control of Indigenous school education, particularly for school refusers and serious funding of Indigenous lead programs to reduce youth suicide, and aims for the Party to be involved in all issues that involve or impact on Indigenous people.In the 2022 election IAPA stood candidates in the NSW and Queensland Senate, as well as in the NSW electorates of Parkes, Page and Roberton.“This election, we hope to have candidates in NSW, Queensland, Northern territory, Western Australia and possibly Victoria,” Mr Whyman said.Candidates will be announced soon, according to Mr Whyman.Mr Whyman previously worked for the Western NSW Aboriginal Legal service and was president for the Paroo National Park. Mr Whyman founded the dance group Barkindji Baaka Dance and Cultural Group where he continues to teach traditional dance and digeridoo to the young people of Wilcannia and surrounds.Holding a Diploma in Primary Healthcare, Mr Whyman currently serves as deputy chair of the Mutawintji Board of Management and Land Council and is president of the Wilcannia AECE.

Emergency services remain at the scene of a fatal two truck crash in the state’s west.About 5.35pm Wednesday 9 April 2025, emergency services were called to Sturt Highway, Euston, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Barrier Police District attended a found two trucks had collided.One driver died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.The other driver, a 29-year-old man, was assessed at the scene before being taken to hospital for mandatory testing.One of the trucks was carrying insecticide, and as a result of the collision, caused a chemical spill which Fire and Rescue NSW are worked to contain and decontaminate.A crime scene has been established and investigations commencing with the assistance of the Crash Investigation Unit.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner. The Sturt Highway remains closed in both directions at the Murray Valley Hwy and motorist are urged to avoid the area. For more information visit www.livetraffic.com.

Funding is being sought for Council to undertake test bores to identify a suitable ground water source for Hay. Council currently draws water from the Murrumbidgee River, but fears there could be a major risk on the water supply should the river water become unavailable or unsuitable. General Manager, David Webb said Council’s Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan was updated in 2022, and identified a risk to Hay’s water supply without having a secondary water source. Council hopes to secure this through groundwater. Two areas within the Lower Murrumbidgee Deep Aquifer, situated near Hay Water Treatment Plant, have been identified as potential groundwater sources to supply Hay. “Since water quality data from existing bores near the identified groundwater source were considered representative, samples were collected and tested.” Mr Webb said. “Additionally, an assessment was carried out to determine whether Hay Water Treatment Plant could effectively treat water from the new groundwater source, should treatment be necessary.” The first bore tested showed a very high sodium level which far exceeds the Australian Drinking Water Guideline (ADWG). Slightly elevated levels of iron, manganese and chlorine were also reported. A very high iron level was detected in the second bore, with sodium and total dissolved solids slightly exceeding ADWG limits. Both bores tested were on private land. “Based on the test results, water from the two bores is not considered to be of good quality, primarily due to excessive levels of sodium, dissolved solids and iron,” Mr Webb said. “Hay Water Treatment Plant is not equipped to manage these water quality exceedances. “Upgrading the plant and implementing new treatment processes, particularly to reduce high sodium levels, could be complex and costly. The bores used for testing (respectively 120 metres deep and 250 metres deep) are considered relatively shallow. “According to the hydrogeologist’s report, the bores need to be drilled deeper to reach the next aquifer, which may yield better quality water. “It is quite expensive to sink a bore and funding will be needed.” Mr Webb said staff were working with the relevant departments to obtain funding to identify a suitable ground water source.

ICPA Rankins Springs Branch member Sally Argent Smith accepted a certificate on behalf of her son Gus, who rode his bike home from school. You might be thinking, yes, my child also rides home from school. However, this was a ride with a difference, to say the least. Gus, then a Year 11 student at Scots All Saint School rode 365 kilometres home from Bathurst to his family farm near Rankins Springs. Gus made the ride to raise awareness and a good $20,000 for the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association of NSW (ICPA-NSW) and his local Rankins Springs branch as a way of giving back. Gus started out on his mammoth ride at 3am on December 7, in the pouring rain. He then battled the elements, cycling in the wet, and the heat; as the day went on, temperatures reached 35 degrees. Gus rode into Rankins Springs at 3pm to tears and cheers from friends, family and the community. A well-versed triathlete, this was an incredibly amazing feat even for an athlete such as Gus, ICPA NSW honoured Gus at the recent conference, delivering heartfelt thanks for the amazing effort.

The NSW ICPA conference, held in Euston and organised by Balranald ICPA was a resounding success. There was an impressive presence of representatives from government bodies including NBN and Telstra, and organisations including the Royal Far West, highlighting the ICPA's ability to foster important partnerships. These interactions during the conference provide opportunities for dialogue and collaboration towards addressing the challenges faced by rural and remote communities. The speakers, including representatives from the Department of Education, the Early Childhood sector, NBN and Telstra expressed appreciation for the ICPA and their collaborative relationships. The conference addressed critical issues for rural and remote education, including teacher retention, rural equity, inter-agency support, Early Childhood Education access and funding, transport challenges, boarding school matters, and connectivity. Tangible wins and progress were reported. Portfolio holders reported on several achievements over the past year, most notably the resolution resulting in the Public Schools fee waiver of $6000 per year for the child of a Temporary Skilled Worker visa holder in rural, regional and remote NSW which was a motion raised originally by the ICPA Rankins Springs branch, and the extending of the Tertiary Access Payment to students up to the age of 22, originally a motion raised by the ICPA Hay branch. The launch of the annual sports bursary using funds raised by Gus Argent Smith’s mammoth fund raising initiative was also a significant positive outcome.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has supported the healthcare needs of rural and remote communities across Australia for nearly 100 years. Since 2012, the RFDS Give Them Wings scholarship has helped rural and regional undergraduate students in health fields to meet their study goals.Not only do scholarship recipients receive $6000 to help cover the extra costs rural students encounter while studying, there is also the opportunity to gain valuable experience by spending up to a week with frontline flying doctor crew relevant to your field of study.To be eligible you must be:An Australian citizen or permanent residentStudying full time in an eligible field (see application pack on the RFDS website)Enrolled through a Victorian campusFrom or currently living in a regional, rural or remote areaIntending to practice healthcare in regional, rural or remoteAustralia upon completing your courseApplications for the RFDS Give Them Wings scholarship are open now and close on Friday 18 April.To find out more and to apply, visit https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/vic/careers/scholarships/#:~:text=Applications%20for%20the%202025%20scholarship,a%20valuable%20work%20experience%20trip.

Aishling Gilbee of Balranald gave a presentation at the recent NSW ICPA Conference, run by the Balranald ICPA and held at Euston, about the journey of rolling out the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in the Balranald community. Aishling and Kyla O'Halloran were motivated to bring the program to their community after a home visit in the course of their jobs.“We found it confronting to learn a mother had no books in the house for their children,” Aishling said. “This was not a judgement on parents and is an exception rather than the rule for Balranald homes, but we were inspired to make sure there were no barriers stopping children from having exposure and access to books.” They faced disappointment when they learnt that their area was not included in the New South Wales state government's fully funded rollout of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which appeared to be a targeted approach focusing on boosting literacy skills in the state's most vulnerable areas. Despite this, Aishling and Kyla, through Balranald organisation Balranald Inc, successfully secured funding for two years’ worth of books for 120 children in the Balranald and Euston communities, totalling $26,000. This was achieved through funding from various local organisations. The books started being distributed in August 2024, and by the time of the conference, 120 children were enrolled, with one little girl who initially had no books now having nine at home. As child and family health nurses, Aishling and Kyla are in a prime position to register newborns onto the program with parental permission. Their driving force is the awareness that while some homes have many books, others have none. The ICPA conference itself has aimed to raise money to donate to the Imagination Library, meaning attendees were contributing to its continuation. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is a program that mails free, high-quality books to enrolled children from birth to age five, no matter their family's income. The goal of the program is to foster a love of reading and ensure that children have books in their homes from an early age, which is linked to increased school readiness.Pictured are Balranald Early Childhood Nurses Kyla O'Halloran and Aishling Gilbee, who implemented the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in the Balranald and Euston areas. Image: The Riverine Grazier/Kimberly Grabham.

A man has been charged following an investigation into alleged animal cruelty offences in the Broken Hill area.On Sunday March 30, Broken Hill police became aware of a series of videos posted to a social media platform depicting alleged acts of animal cruelty.Following a joint investigation by officers attached to Barrier Police District and the Rural Crime Prevention Team, police executed a search warrant at a house in Broken Hill at 4.00pm on April 1.A 21-year-old man was arrested and issued a Court Attendance Notice for five counts of torture, beat and cause prolonged suffering to an animal.The man is expected to appear at Broken Hill Local Court on Tuesday May 13.

Michelle Milthorpe, Independent Candidate for Farrer, attended the ICPA NSW Conference at Euston, held last week. A career educator and staunch advocate, Michelle said she was glad to be at the conference and the advocacy for better conditions on many levels was something she admired and held close to her heart. “Seeing these hardworking people fight consistently and constantly for equity for children is something I feel proud for,” she said. "It aligns with my own advocacy work, goals, and values. “Being an educator I understand keenly the barriers which exist for children and families, and how important it is to keep fighting to make a difference. “It would be such a difficult decision; whether to keep your children at home with you and navigate School of the Air, or to entrust the care of your children to other education professionals. “I am so invested in making that transition and process as good as it can get for all involved, and hats off to the strong motivated individuals who never stop fighting.” Michelle noted it was good to see the mix of professionals attending and taking part in the conference, including Early Education professionals, pertinent organisations such as the Royal Far West, and Governmental representatives who can assist to foster change. “I was particularly impressed hearing guest speaker Dean White (Regional, Rural and Remote and Unique Settings Directorate and Executive Director) speak. “It was refreshing to hear him, someone from the government, say he strives to approach things from a regional rural and remote lens and perspective, and give these areas a voice in Federal Parliament, was encouraging,” she said. “My experiences with advocating for children having to navigate an antiquated legal system has prompted me to always operate by the saying, “If you see something that needs fixing, and you have the capacity to make positive change, you should,” she said. “The way these members of ICPA see and identify needs and areas of change and doggedly fight for them, even after their own children have finished their time in the school systems is nothing short of inspiring.”

Every household across the country will pay less for electricity, after the Prime Minister’s recent additional rebates announcement. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the rebates on television and said his Government will provide another $150 in Energy Bill Relief, extending energy rebates until the end of 2025. “This responsible cost of living relief measure will help every household and small businesses,” Mr Albanese said. Member for Farrer Sussan Ley called the budget announcements “underwhelming”. “(This is) an energy rebate which is a fraction of the cost of your power bill,” Ms Ley said. From July 1, every household will see another $150 in rebates automatically applied to their electricity bills in quarterly instalments of $75. This is in addition to the previous rebates already applied to household electricity bills. In NSW the rebates occur automatically; there is nothing for customers to do, however you should check your bills and contact your provider if you have questions. According to the Prime Minister around one million small businesses will also see rebates appear on their invoices, reducing the cost. “Treasury estimates this will directly reduce headline inflation by around half of a percentage point in 2025, and reduce household bills by 7.5 per cent on average nationally, compared to bills without the extension,” Mr Albanese said. “The extension of energy bill rebates will cost $1.8 billion over the forward estimates. “In addition, the ACCC’s Inquiry into the National Electricity Market will be extended for 12 months, helping to ensure households and small businesses are getting a fair deal from their energy retailer.”

Joint investment to strengthen frontline services and support victim-survivors across the stateNew South Wales is set to receive a significant injection of funding to bolster frontline services for family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV) following the renewal of a crucial agreement with the federal government. The commitment of $110.6 million in additional federal funding marks a continuation of the five-year National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses.This new investment brings the total federal contribution to FDSV services in New South Wales to $210.6 million since 2022. Federal Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, emphasized the government's dedication to achieving meaningful change for Australians through this renewed Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence (FDSV) National Partnership, noting this initiative aligns with the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032, highlighting a unified governmental commitment to eradicating gender-based violence nationwide. Minister Rishworth underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts and targeted funding to support victim-survivors and individuals at risk.The renewed agreement aims to strengthen funding for frontline services and advance the shared objective of creating a safer Australia. New South Wales Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, affirmed that addressing domestic, family and sexual violence is a key priority for the state government. Minister Harrison welcomed the additional $110 million from the federal government under the National Partnership Agreement.In a significant move to amplify the impact, the New South Wales government will match the federal funding, indicating a strong collaborative approach to tackling this critical issue. Minister Harrison stated that this combined funding will focus on the vital work of reducing the prevalence of domestic, family and sexual violence within the state.The renewed FDSV National Partnership extends beyond New South Wales, encompassing over $700 million in new, matched investments across all Australian states and territories. This nationwide funding will support crucial frontline FDSV services, including specialized assistance for women and children affected by violence, as well as programs aimed at men’s behaviour change.Furthermore, demonstrating a commitment to accountability and effectiveness, $1 million will be allocated for an independent evaluation of the renewed FDSV National Partnership. Detailed information regarding the FDSV National Partnership Agreement is publicly accessible on the Federal Financial Relations website. This collaborative financial commitment from both federal and state governments signals a significant step towards enhancing support and working towards the long-term goal of ending domestic, family, and sexual violence in Australia.

The focus on cost of living in the newly released federal budget will be a welcome relief for many, particularly for families, says Independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe. “I welcome the inclusion of things like childcare subsidies, investment in infrastructure for child care centres, and commitments to women’s health—areas that are often overlooked,” Mrs Milthorpe said. However, the candidate for the Farrer electorate says the funding for regional areas is superficial. “It’s a short-term fix for long-term problems, without a real plan for lasting solutions,” Mrs Milthorpe said.  “It’s one thing to offer subsidies for child care, but that only helps if you actually have a child care centre in your town. If you don’t, then a subsidy does nothing for you. That’s the reality for many regional, rural, and remote communities in Farrer,” she said. Mrs Milthorpe also pointed out a major gap in healthcare funding, particularly for emergency care. “The new Urgent Care Clinics announced in the budget will improve healthcare access for many Australians, but not for the majority of people in Farrer. Unless you live in Albury, you miss out—again. These clinics will be available to four out of five people in Australia, yet in our region, where access to healthcare is already limited, we’ve been overlooked. “For communities without hospitals or after-hours care, this is just another example of the city-first approach that ignores the reality of living in regional Australia,” she said. Mrs Milthorpe said she is calling for a more practical, big-picture approach. “Take health care, for example. Let’s say a GP wants to move to a rural town, but there’s nowhere for them to live, no school or child care for their kids, few job opportunities for their partner, and no local sports teams or community groups to be part of. Why would they choose to settle there? "But if we invest in housing, ensure child care places are available, maintain strong local schools, support industries that create jobs, and build thriving communities, then we create places where people want to stay for the long term,” she said. “Our regional communities are incredibly resourceful—we get things done because we have to. But with meaningful, well-targeted federal funding, we could achieve so much more,” Mrs Milthorpe said. Mrs Milthorpe said she will provide further comment after hearing the budget-in-reply.

The AEC takes privacy law obligations seriously and advises that political parties are exempt from privacy legislation.The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has once again cautioned voters about unsolicited postal vote application forms distributed by political parties via mail and SMS.The electoral body has stressed that these forms are not issued by the AEC, which is the sole distributor of postal vote ballot papers.According to the AEC, these unsolicited applications are sent by political parties or candidates and are reportedly used to gather data about voters before being forwarded to the AEC. While this practice is permissible under the Commonwealth Electoral Act and represents a legitimate way to apply for a postal vote, the AEC has raised concerns regarding the timeliness of these applications reaching them and the privacy of the applicant's personal information.The AEC's primary concern revolves around the potential for voters to be misled into thinking these application forms are official documents from the AEC. In past elections, some party-issued applications have featured misleading colours and even directed voters to non-AEC websites."If you receive an application form for a postal vote in the mail, or an SMS encouraging you to apply for a postal vote, it hasn’t come from the AEC,” Australian Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope emphasised.This warning echoes the advice given by the AEC during the 2022 federal election.The AEC strongly advises voters to apply for postal votes directly through the official AEC website. They assert applying directly is not only faster but also provides greater protection for personal details. The AEC highlights that it is bound by Australian privacy laws, whereas political parties are exempt from this legislation.The issue of unsolicited postal vote applications is a recurring problem, with the AEC noting that concerns about party postal vote applications through unsolicited outreach is the number one complaint they hear from voters at almost every federal election. The AEC has previously shared these concerns with parliamentary committees and intends to continue doing so.In light of recent data breaches, the AEC underscored the importance of data privacy, noting they have seen a number of major data breaches over the last few years and Australians have a right to know who’s collecting their personal information. Voters are encouraged to be vigilant and ensure they are using official AEC channels for all electoral matters.

“I am excited this election has finally been called,”Member for Farrer Sussan Ley MP says she is ready for the upcoming federal election, scheduled for May 3.“I am excited this election has finally been called,” Ms Ley said. “Excited because it gives the people of Farrer – all Australians for that matter – a chance to change the direction of this nation.  As Peter Dutton said, we live in the best country in the world, but only if we’re governed well!From Albury to Griffith and across the electorate, I’ve spoken to so many people over the last three years; mums and dads, small and large families, business owners and manufacturers, all who say, ‘they are just not getting ahead’.What the Coalition is offering is a government which will better manage the economy, curb unnecessary spending, wind in inflation and reduce the cost of energy. I have already made – and will make – a number of local election commitments across Farrer.More broadly, our pledge to halve the fuel excise, get affordable gas supply back as part of the nation’s energy mix, support small business and target train your workers for tomorrow are really important to this region.We cannot afford three more years of this bad government, and we certainly don’t need the mess of a hung parliament with Climate 200 Teal independents backing Labor-Greens policies and being parliament’s ‘rubber stamp’ for Anthony Albanese.This election is your chance to change the country for the better, and to get you and your family ahead.”

NRHA is calls for a $1 billion National Rural Health FundWith the Federal Election set for May 3, it is crucial that all Members of Parliament and Senators prioritise the needs of rural Australia and step up to secure a healthier future for all Australians, says the National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA).According to NRHA, the 2025-26 Federal Budget fell disappointingly short of providing a tailored solution for rural health care. However, NRHA is hopeful that all parties would recognise the economic contribution of rural populations and address their health needs during election campaigns.“As the cost of living continues to rise, the disparities in healthcare funding and access for rural people are becoming more pronounced, making it vital for this election to focus on ensuring health equity for all Australians,” said NRHA Chief Executive Susi Tegen.Rural Australians make up 30 percent of Australia’s population, contributing significantly to Australia’s economy, and generating 70 percent of export income through industries, such as agriculture, minerals, tourism, retail, services, and manufacturing. They also account for 50 percent of the nation’s tourism income and provide 90 percent of the country’s food.Despite these enormous contributions, rural Australians receive $848 less per person per year - $6.55 billion in total - in healthcare funding compared to their urban counterparts. This gap translates to poorer health outcomes and earlier death due to reduced access to healthcare services.“We urge all Australians and the candidates who seek their votes to recognise and address the healthcare challenges and earlier deaths that persist in rural areas, ultimately impacting all Australians. We ask for their support to implement a National Rural Health Strategy to coordinate Commonwealth, State, and Territory policy, investment and service delivery. This will ensure grassroots-led, sustainable solutions for rural communities throughout the patient journey.“We have heard from individuals who must travel hundreds of kilometres to access basic care, as the services have disappeared, and no one seems to care. Clinicians, no matter which health profession, are working many hours on the ground, are burnt out and feel unsupported. The solutions have been provided for any government to take up the challenge to be more flexible and focus on equity and reflect that we are all Australians,” said Ms Tegen.NRHA is also calling for a $1 billion National Rural Health Fund, half of which is to support blended or block healthcare delivery payments for where there is no or little access for populations to healthcare.The other half would be put towards infrastructure for student, trainee or visiting clinician accommodation, outreach in infrastructure for service delivery, or for childcare. This would help address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in rural regions.NRHA is a strong advocate of local rural health research, innovation and grassroots-led solutions and seeks funding for a Rural Health Innovation and Evidence Hub where anyone from anywhere can access information from other regions that have implemented great ideas and solutions, to learn, share and adapt the lessons and trials that have improved patient access, health and medical clinician training and research across rural Australia.“It is time for all political leaders to step up, commit to the 7.3 million rural people that they would implement long-term solutions, and ensure that no Australian, no matter what their postcode, is left behind when it comes to accessing quality health care,” said Ms Tegen.The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector and students.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has a long and proud history of delivering vital healthcare to Australians living in rural and remote areas for over 95 years. However, despite this enduring commitment, significant disparities in healthcare access persist, leading to worrying health outcomes for those living outside major cities.As the 2025 Federal election approaches, the RFDS is actively advocating for increased commitment and investment to broaden its primary healthcare services, aiming to improve the overall health and wellbeing of rural, regional, and remote communities across Australia.The organisation has identified critical gaps in the current provision of comprehensive healthcare in these areas, highlighting a substantial unmet need.To address these challenges, the RFDS has put forward three key initiatives outlined in its 2025 Federal Policy Statement.One crucial element is expanding the reach of RFDS primary healthcare services to areas where they are most needed. This involves increasing both the number of locations and the frequency of RFDS outreach services. Furthermore, the RFDS seeks to ensure the consistent availability of General Practitioner (GP) services in communities identified as being at high risk. A key aspect of this initiative is to secure independent funding for RFDS primary healthcare operations, separate from its aeromedical retrieval services.Recognising the complexities of healthcare in remote settings, the RFDS is also proposing greater investment in multi-disciplinary healthcare teams. The vision is to establish a dedicated RFDS multidisciplinary primary healthcare team in each state and territory. These teams would have a specific focus on providing comprehensive management for chronic diseases, which are disproportionately prevalent in rural and remote populations.The third key initiative focuses on leveraging digital and virtual health technologies to enhance care delivery through reliable, hybrid models. The RFDS is already making strides in this area, with initiatives such as a virtual emergency care centre currently in operation and a telehealth pod model under development.The consequences of inadequate access to primary healthcare for rural and remote Australians are stark. Alarmingly, individuals living in these areas face a significantly shorter life expectancy, potentially dying up to 14 years earlier than their counterparts in major cities. Often, these premature deaths are attributed to preventable causes. Moreover, the rates of chronic and lifestyle-related diseases, including conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung cancer, are considerably higher in rural and remote communities. Tragically, residents in these areas are also almost three times more likely to be hospitalised for conditions that could have potentially been prevented with timely and appropriate primary healthcare3 ....The RFDS has a long-standing collaborative relationship with the Australian Government, dating back to the 1930s. Through these new initiatives, the RFDS aims to further strengthen this partnership, working towards their shared goal of ensuring the health and wellbeing of all Australians, regardless of their geographic location. By focusing on unmet needs, bolstering chronic disease management, and embracing innovative digital health solutions, the RFDS is seeking to bridge the healthcare gap and improve the lives of those living in rural and remote Australia.The Royal Flying Doctors have a fascinating history, and have saved countless lives. Have a read of their history by clicking the link https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/nswact/news/above-and-beyond-flight-nurses-outback/

Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP) welcomes additional support provided in this year’s Federal Budget for victims of gender-based violence.Last week’s budget announced $21.4 million over three years from 2025-26 to improve victim and survivor engagement within the justice system and inform a broader response to the Australian Law Reform Commission's inquiry into the Justice System's Response to Sexual Violence.MASP Manager – Family Safety Dani Edwards said the funding was a step forward for victim-survivors.“MASP staff see the impacts of Family Violence every day, and one of the major barriers facing victim-survivors is the challenges engaging with the justice system,” she said. “Navigating the justice system can be complex and traumatic for people who have already been subject to trauma so we welcome any measures that will address that.”Additionally, First Nations women, children and communities will receive $21.8 million for family, domestic and sexual violence services and $16.7 million will fund innovative approaches to address the behaviour of people who use violence and support them to change.“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are overrepresented as both victim-survivors and people using family violence, so we are happy to see further measures to address this and protect families,” Ms Edwards said.“Particularly in the Wentworth and Balranald LGAS where the overall Indigenous population figures sit well above the national average – we welcome Government investment in programs that will make a difference for some of our most vulnerable people.”