Taking the next steps in ACT health services planning


Released 08/08/2022

The ACT Government has today released a plan to shape the future of public health services for a growing population in the Territory and surrounding region. All Canberrans are now invited to have their say on the next steps in planning for new facilities and services.

The ACT Health Services Plan 2022-2030 sets out the priorities for Government-funded health services over the next eight years.

Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the plan is another step towards a more integrated and sustainable health system for the Canberra community.

“As our population continues to grow and age, and as new technologies and opportunities become available, we need to ensure our health system continues to meet the needs of our community,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

“This plan builds on significant consultation and investment over recent years to create a health system that is flexible, provides services that work together and delivers what people need, as close to home as possible.”

The Government is seeking community views on healthcare access and design.

“We want you to have your say on the next stage of designing health services to be delivered under the plan, so we understand what’s important to you and your family,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

“We want to know how services like a new northside hospital and more community-based health facilities can be designed to provide the best health outcomes for Canberrans.

“By having your say, you will be helping to build a modern, person-centred health system that is innovative, sustainable and accountable.

“Please get involved in this consultation through the YourSay survey, our community panel and pop-up consultation sessions.”

The implementation of the ACTHealth Services Plan will be supported by the Draft ACT Health Workforce Strategy 2022-2032, with the next phase of key stakeholder consultation starting today.

“This workforce strategy will ensure we develop the capacity and capability of our health workforce to support our growing healthcare system now and into the future,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

“We will work with stakeholders over the coming weeks and months to help us finalise the priorities of the strategy. We know that recruiting, retaining and supporting our doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health professionals and support staff is vital to delivering high quality patient-centred care.

“The strategy sits alongside the urgent work we’re doing on workforce wellbeing and recovery – developing a multi-year investment that will support our public health workforce with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic now and into the future.

“We have already committed significant investment towards growing our hospitals and health services across the Territory, and the Government will continue to invest to support health care workers, consumers and their families.”

Consultation on accessing healthcare and designing future health services for the ACT is open until 9 September 2022. For more information and to take part in consultation activities, visit the YourSay page.

- Statement ends -

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases


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