Call for urgent action on rural and remote healthcare
Doctors urge new government to fix rural healthcare gaps after election and address $6.55B funding shortfall.
What’s happening?
Following the conclusion of the federal election, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is now urging the newly elected government to act immediately on healthcare equity for rural, remote, and First Nations communities. ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says it's time to turn campaign promises into urgent and meaningful change.
“Our communities are tired of being left behind. Promises must turn into action — immediately,” Dr Martin says.
With the election now decided, ACRRM expects the new leadership to honour its commitments. "Rural and remote Australians deserve access to quality healthcare close to home. They deserve to have specialist care from a Rural Generalist they can rely on," Dr Martin says.”
Why it matters
Australia’s rural health crisis continues to worsen as funding gaps widen and services close. ACRRM is adamant that the time for promises is over — what’s needed now is investment, policy reform, and commitment from federal leadership.
“This isn’t just a health issue — it’s an equity issue,” says Dr Martin. “More than 7 million Australians living across over 12,300 rural, remote, and First Nations communities will have their say at the ballot box. Their votes matter. Their voices matter.”
Local Impact
If the next government fails to act, rural Australians will keep facing the loss of vital services like local maternity wards. ACRRM proposes practical steps: increased training spots for doctors, sustainable maternity programs, and incentives to support rural healthcare careers.
By the numbers:
Over 7 million Australians live in rural, remote, and First Nations communities.
Rural healthcare remains underfunded by at least $6.55 billion every year.
ACRRM is calling for 500 fully funded Rural Generalist training places annually.
Zoom In
One key issue is the alarming closure rate of rural birthing units. ACRRM urges investment in sustainable maternity services to stop this trend and protect rural mothers and babies.
Zoom Out
More than 12,300 communities across the country face systemic health inequities. The choices made at this election will shape healthcare access in these communities for years.
What to look for next?
Now that the election has concluded, all eyes turn to the new government’s first 100 days in office. ACRRM is watching closely to see whether rural health will be prioritised in upcoming policy announcements and the federal budget.
About ACRRM
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine is the peak body representing rural, remote, and First Nations healthcare professionals. ACRRM trains and supports Rural Generalists and advocates for a healthcare system that serves Australians no matter where they live.